Filing Fees for P-1, O-1, and EB-1A visas as of April 1, 2024 Increase
At Sherrod Sports Visas, our team specializes in O, P, and EB1A visas for athletes, entertainers, investors, and highly skilled professionals across various industries. Today, we want to discuss a significant issue affecting many of our clients and the broader immigration community: the problems with USCIS filing fees.
Current Issues with USCIS Filing Fees
New Rules and Asylum Fee
As of April 1st, USCIS implemented new rules regarding filing fees, including an additional asylum fee. This fee varies between $300 to $600 depending on the number of full-time employees. Unfortunately, even before this change, we have been experiencing substantial delays in receipt notices and issues with charging credit cards for filing fees.
Delayed Receipt Notices
One of the major frustrations is the delay in receiving receipt notices from USCIS. When we mail a case, it’s not uncommon for it to take a month or more to be returned if rejected. Combined with late receipt notices and inconsistent credit card charges, files often remain in limbo, causing significant delays.
P-1 Visa for Internationally Recognized Athletes and Entertainers
USCIS Filing Fee (Form I-129):
$1,015, designed for those participating at a specific event or competition.
Premium Processing Service:
Available for $2,805, which shortens the processing time to 15 calendar days, offering a quicker resolution for those needing expedited services.
Asylum Program Fee:
This varies depending on employer size—$600 for larger employers and $300 for smaller employers or those exempt, including nonprofit organizations.
O-1A Visa for Individuals with Extraordinary Abilities
Filing Fees and Related Costs:
USCIS Filing Fee (Form I-129)
$1,055 for individuals demonstrating extraordinary ability in sciences, education, business, or athletics.
Premium Processing Service:
The fee is $2,805, ensuring processing within 15 calendar days, critical for those requiring timely adjudication.
Asylum Program Fee:
Charged similarly to the P-1 visa, facilitating additional support and resources from USCIS.
EB-1A Visa for Extraordinary Ability
Filing Fees and Considerations:
USCIS Filing Fee (Form I-140):
Set at $715, this fee applies to those seeking recognition for their significant contributions to their fields.
Premium Processing Service:
Costs $2,805 and is processed within 15 business days, providing an expedited path to handling complex petitions.
Asylum Program Fee:
Imposed at $600 for larger employers and $300 for smaller or nonprofit employers, supporting the operational costs associated with these applications.
Adjustment of Status and Consular Processing
-
Standard Fee: $1,440 for applicants filing standalone applications.
Age-Specific Fees: Different fees may apply for applicants under the age of 14, typically lower to accommodate younger applicants.
Additional Applications:
Form I-131 (Travel Document): Necessary for those needing to travel internationally while their application is pending, priced at $630.
Form I-765 (Employment Authorization): Costs $260 for both online filings and paper filings, allowing applicants to work while they await the final decision on their status.
-
For EB-1A applicants outside the U.S., consular processing involves coordination with the Department of State and may include additional fees based on the U.S. embassy or consulate's specific requirements. This option is vital for those not currently in the U.S. but wishing to obtain permanent residency based on their extraordinary abilities.
Immigrant Visa Application Processing Fee:
For family-sponsored applications (including certain orphan adoptions): $325
For employment-based applications: $345
For other visa types (like diversity visa, returning resident): fees vary
Affidavit of Support Fee: $120. This fee is paid for processing the affidavit of support form, which is required for most family-based and some employment-based immigrants.
Final Considerations
The information provided here is streamlined to assist in financial planning and understanding the timeline implications of each visa category. We advise all potential applicants and interested parties to consult directly with our experienced immigration attorneys to tailor the approach based on individual circumstances and ensure compliance with the latest USCIS regulations.
At Sherrod Sports Visas, we are committed to offering detailed, accurate, and timely advice, leveraging our expertise to facilitate your U.S. immigration needs. Whether you are an athlete, an artist, or a distinguished professional in other fields, our team is here to support every step of your journey toward achieving your American dream.