At Garvish Immigration Law Group, we are committed to ensuring a seamless and efficient immigration process for our clients. In line with this commitment, we are excited to bring you crucial insights into the recent changes implemented by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that will significantly impact the way fees are paid for certain forms filed at field offices.

Typically, the majority of immigration benefit requests are submitted through a Lockbox or a service center. However, in specific cases, USCIS forms may be received through a local USCIS office, necessitating applicants, petitioners, and requestors to schedule appointments with the USCIS Contact Center and physically visit a field office to make specific application fee payments.

To streamline and enhance this process, USCIS is instituting a transformative change beginning February 1, 2024. The aim is to make fee payments for field office filings more accessible and convenient for everyone involved.

Under the new process, three alternative methods for paying fees to USCIS for field office filings will be available:

• Mail with Credit or Debit Card:
  • Applicants, petitioners, or requestors can now mail a check or Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, to the field office, eliminating the need for in-person visits and appointments.
• Emergency Form I-131 Filings:
  • For emergency advance parole (EAP) requests submitted using Form I-131, applicants can still schedule appointments through the USCIS Contact Center and apply in person with their package, paying the application fee by credit card with Form G-1450 or check at the field office.
• EOIR Filings by Representatives:
  • Attorneys and accredited representatives can now conveniently process payments for EOIR-29, Notice of Appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals from a Decision of a DHS Officer, through a link provided in an email or via text from the USCIS Contact Center.

This change is designed to save time and money for applicants and their representatives by eliminating the need for office appointments. As we explore these alterations, we will delve into the intricacies of each method and provide insights into how this will positively impact your immigration journey.

Stay tuned for further updates and a comprehensive exploration of these changes. If you have any questions or seek personalized guidance, our team at Garvish Immigration Law Group is here to assist you. Your immigration goals are important to us, and we are committed to providing the best possible experience as we navigate these enhancements together.