If you’re applying for a green card, asylum, or work authorization in 2026, your application just got more expensive. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has announced fee increases that take effect today, alongside stricter security measures for travelers from certain countries.
Here’s everything you need to know about the changes and how they might affect your immigration journey.
What’s Changing With Immigration Fees?
Starting January 1, 2026, nearly all immigration-related fees have increased. While the changes might seem small—ranging from $2 to $10 per application—they add up quickly for families filing multiple forms or renewing documents annually.
The most significant updates include increases to asylum application fees and employment authorization documents, which are critical for people trying to legally work while their cases are pending.
Complete Fee Breakdown: Old vs. New Costs
Understanding exactly what you’ll pay is crucial for budgeting your immigration process. Here’s the complete comparison:
Asylum Applications The annual asylum application fee has risen from $100 to $102—a modest $2 increase that affects those with pending asylum cases.
Work Authorization Documents (EAD) For initial employment authorization, you’ll now pay $560 instead of $550. This applies to asylum applicants, those with parole status, and Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders. Renewal fees have increased from $275 to $280.
Temporary Protected Status TPS applications now cost $510, up from $500. If you’re from a country designated for TPS—like Venezuela, Haiti, or certain Central American nations—this affects your ability to legally remain and work in the United States.
New Security Protocols: Who’s Affected?
Beyond fee increases, the Trump administration has introduced enhanced security screening for green card holders and applicants from 19 countries classified as “high-risk.”
Countries Under Intensified Screening Afghanistan, Iran, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Cuba, Venezuela, and Turkmenistan are among the nations whose citizens face additional review. Green card holders from these countries will undergo comprehensive residency status evaluations, even if they’ve lived in the U.S. for years.
What Enhanced Screening Means If you’re from one of these countries, expect more thorough background checks, extended processing times, and potentially additional interviews. The government aims to verify every aspect of your residency and travel history.
Entry Restrictions Twelve countries face complete entry bans, while seven others have partial restrictions. This affects not just new applicants but also current green card holders who travel internationally and attempt to return to the United States.
Biometric Requirements All non-U.S. citizens, including lawful permanent residents, will undergo enhanced biometric screening at airports and border crossings. This includes updated photographs, fingerprints, and in some cases, iris scans. The technology creates an integrated entry-exit system to track who enters and leaves the country.
Why These Changes Matter
Immigration attorney Abhinav Tripathi highlighted the real-world impact: “These are predictable inflation updates, but they fall squarely on communities with the least financial stability.” For asylum seekers arriving with limited resources, even a $10 increase can mean delaying an application or choosing between filing paperwork and paying for housing.
The security measures, while aimed at national security, create uncertainty for hundreds of thousands of green card holders who travel for work or family emergencies. USCIS Director Joseph Edlow emphasized that “protecting Americans is at the center of everything we do,” framing the changes as necessary security enhancements.
What You Should Do Right Now
If You’re Filing New Applications Double-check the fee amounts before submitting any forms. Applications with incorrect payment will be rejected, causing delays that could affect your work authorization or legal status.
If You’re a Green Card Holder from Affected Countries Ensure all your documents are current and accurate. Consider consulting an immigration attorney before traveling internationally, as re-entry requirements have become more stringent.
If You’re Planning to Apply Budget for the new fees and expect longer processing times due to enhanced screening. Gather comprehensive documentation to support your application and demonstrate ties to the United States.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect in 2026
Immigration attorneys anticipate that processing times may increase as USCIS implements the new security protocols. The biometric screening systems require infrastructure updates at ports of entry nationwide, which could cause delays during the initial rollout.
For families pursuing green cards or asylum, these changes add financial and procedural complexity to an already challenging process. Staying informed about policy updates and maintaining accurate records will be more important than ever.
The Biden-era immigration policies have largely been replaced, and the current administration has signaled that border security and immigration enforcement remain top priorities. Future policy changes are likely as the administration continues implementing its immigration agenda.
Key Takeaways
- All immigration fees increase by $2 to $10 effective January 1, 2026
- Green card holders from 19 countries face enhanced security screening
- Biometric data collection expands at all U.S. entry and exit points
- Always verify current fees before submitting applications to avoid rejection
- Consult an immigration attorney if you’re affected by the security protocols
Immigration policy remains fluid, and staying updated on changes is essential for anyone navigating the U.S. immigration system. Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing existing documents, understanding these new requirements can help you avoid costly mistakes and delays.
