The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has implemented a streamlined process allowing most applicants, petitioners, requestors, as well as their attorneys and accredited representatives, to make payments for certain benefit request forms by mail or remotely. This significant change eliminates the need for in-person office appointments, providing a more efficient and cost-effective solution for those required to pay these fees.

Under the updated process, applicants can choose to mail either a check or utilize Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, along with their benefit request directly to the field office. Careful adherence to filing instructions is essential to ensure that the benefit request form is eligible for submission by mail or remotely and that the filing location is accurate. Incorrect filings will be returned to the applicant for resubmission to the correct office.

Attorneys and accredited representatives now have the option to process payments for EOIR-29, Notice of Appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals from a Decision of a DHS Officer, conveniently through a link in the email they receive or via text from the USCIS Contact Center. Following successful payment processing, they are required to mail their client’s EOIR-29, EOIR-2, EOIR-27 (Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Representative Before the Board of Immigration Appeals), and Pay.gov receipt to the respective field office.

It’s important to note that emergency advance parole (EAP) requests, specifically for Form I-131, and Application for Travel Document, remain an exception to this new process. Applicants submitting EAP requests must continue to schedule an appointment with the USCIS Contact Center, apply in person with the complete package, and make the application fee payment (if applicable) using Form G-1450 or a check at the field office.

For those inside the United States, USCIS provides multiple payment options, including online payments via credit/debit card or bank withdrawal, mail payments using a card, check, or money order (directed to a USCIS Lockbox or Service Center), and in-person payments at a USCIS field office. If residing outside the United States, individuals are advised to check the Forms section on the USCIS website for information on acceptable forms of payment and to consult with the relevant International USCIS office or U.S. Embassy/Consulate for guidance on paying USCIS fees.

Source: MSN