H-1B Workers & Students Must Now Pay USCIS Fees via U.S. Bank Account

by Nakul_Mehra

Image Source: Business Standard826×465 71.1 KB

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has stopped accepting cheques and money orders for immigration applications. Starting this week, all applicants, including H-1B workers and international students, must pay fees through a U.S. bank account or credit card.

New Payment Rules

Form G-1650: Authorizes direct debit from a U.S.-based bank account.

Form G-1450: For credit card payments.

Cheques and money orders are no longer accepted.

Why It Matters

This change affects payments for:

Green card (adjustment of status) applications

H-1B and other work visa petitions

Employment authorization and travel document requests

Applicants without a U.S. bank account, like new students or dependents, may face challenges. They might need help from a U.S. employer, friend, or family member, or use a prepaid credit card instead.

Fees typically range from $410–$1,225 (₹34,000–₹1,02,000) depending on the application.

Planning to study or work in the U.S.? Stay updated on immigration and visa changes, join GD Connect to learn from experts and students already abroad.

Source: Business Standard