USCIS to Require Electronic Fee Payments Beginning October 28, 2025
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a significant shift in its fee- processing procedures that will directly impact all applicants and petitioners seeking U.S. visa and immigration benefits. As part of a broader modernization effort, the agency will transition away from traditional paper-based payment methods and adopt a fully electronic payment framework.
Mandatory Electronic Payments
Effective October 28, 2025, USCIS will accept filing fees only through:
- ACH debit using Form G-1650, Authorization for ACH Transactions, or
- Credit card payment using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions.
Paper checks, money orders, and other physical payment instruments will no longer be accepted after this date. Any filing submitted with an ineligible payment method will be rejected by the receiving immigration office.
ACH Debit Option Now Available
Applicants may immediately begin using Form G-1650 to authorize secure electronic debit from a U.S. bank account. This provides an alternative to credit card payments and allows petitioners to streamline their submissions without relying on external payment processors or manual remittance.
Individuals without access to a U.S. bank account may continue to use Form G-1450, including prepaid or reloadable credit cards.
Policy Manual Update and Rejection Standards
USCIS has incorporated these changes into its Policy Manual, clarifying that:
- All payments must originate from a U.S. financial institution and must be made in U.S. currency.
- Submissions containing incorrect fees, insufficient funds, or invalid payment instruments will not be accepted.
- The agency may reject the entire application, petition, or request if the electronic transaction fails for any reason.
These revisions are intended to enhance security, reduce processing delays, and limit risks associated with lost, incomplete, or fraudulent payments.
Transition Period
The period leading up to October 28, 2025, serves as an opportunity for individuals, employers, and representatives to adjust internal procedures and ensure that all upcoming filings comply with the new electronic payment requirements. Early adoption of Form G-1650 or Form G-1450 is strongly encouraged to avoid disruptions in case processing.
How This Impacts U.S. Visa Filings?
This initiative represents a substantial procedural change for anyone preparing applications for employment-based, family-based, humanitarian, or other U.S. visa processes. Organizations that routinely submit large volumes of filings—such as immigration law practices, corporate HR teams, and international mobility departments—should update their systems now to avoid rejections and delays.
Need Assistance? Contact Unilaw Global Services
For applicants, companies, and representatives navigating these new requirements, Unilaw Global Services provides comprehensive support with U.S. visa filings, payment compliance, and full petition preparation.
Our team ensures that every submission meets the latest USCIS standards and is filed accurately, securely, and on time.
For guidance on adopting electronic payment procedures or preparing any immigration filing, contact Unilaw Global Services today.