US Immigration Costs Surge Under New Law
Fees for asylum seekers and visa applicants see sharp increases.
A new law championed by former President Donald Trump has dramatically increased the costs associated with immigrating to the United States, affecting asylum applications, work permits, and various visa categories. These changes mark a significant shift in US immigration policy.
New Financial Burdens
The legislation introduces significant changes to the fees associated with migratory processes. Some procedures now cost up to 40% more, while new fees have been implemented for processes that were previously free.
Notably, individuals seeking asylum in the US now face an initial application fee of $100. Before this law, there was no fee to apply for asylum.
Additionally, immigrants must now pay $550 for work authorization, along with $100 annually while their case is pending, and $275 to renew their work permits, which are valid for one year.
Refuge applications have also seen a price hike, now costing $1,000, compared to the previous fee of $630.
Impact on Temporary Protected Status (TPS) Holders
People residing in the US under Temporary Protected Status (TPS) also face increased costs. Requesting a work permit now costs $550, up from $410. The initial application fee for TPS status has increased dramatically from $50 to $550.
Visa Integrity Fee
The new law introduces a “Cost by integrity of the visa”
, requiring a $250 payment to ensure compliance with visa terms. This applies to student, tourist, and work visas, and the fee may be reimbursed if the visa holder complies with immigration laws.
Family Petition Costs Rise
Filing a family petition now costs $1,500, a significant increase from the previous $1,040.
These increased costs come as the number of migrants encountered at the U.S.-Mexico border remains high. In fiscal year 2023, there were over 2.4 million encounters, according to data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
These fiscal modifications represent a significant shift in US immigration policy, potentially creating barriers for many seeking to live and work in the United States.