So, by now, most people know that immigration fees have increased for almost all USCIS forms. However, a fact that not a lot of people are informed about is how some immigration processes, such as an Adjustment of Status Application process, has changed. With that said, we would like to explain the differences between applying for an Adjustment of Status before and after April 1, 2024.
Before April 1, most immigration attorneys, including ourselves, would always include an I-751 Application for Employment Authorization and the I-131 Application for Travel Document for immediate family member-based petition adjustment of status applications. The I-751 Application allowed intending immigrants to receive work authorization, which consequently allowed them to receive a social security number, a driver’s license, and other benefits. Further, the I-131 Application allowed intending immigrants to temporary leave the United States while their Adjustment of Status Application was pending.
The I-765 and I-131 applications are extremely convenient because it allows intending to do these things before receiving their Green Card, which some of which otherwise would not be able to do without the Green Card. Also, keep in mind that some Adjustment of Status applications can take up to two years to be processed. Additionally, it was encouraged to submit these two applications because USCIS would waive the application fees when these applications were submitted along the I-485 Application in an Adjustment of Status Application.
However, as of April 1, 2024, USCIS now requires all intending immigrants to pay $260 USD and $630 USD for the I-765 and I-131 applications respectively. This is now a requirement regardless of whether they are applying as part of an Adjustment of Status Application or another visa category. This of course puts intending immigrants at an economic disadvantage. Nevertheless, from now on, we recommend intending immigrants to carefully assess the cost benefit of these applications before applying for an Adjustment of Status Application.
Do you want to learn more about this process change or an adjustment of status application? Call us today at (915) 314-2363 to schedule a consultation today!
