US to raise immigration processing fees from March 1

The United States will raise premium processing fees for a wide range of immigration applications from March 1, 2026, in a move that is expected to increase costs for international students and skilled foreign professionals, including a large number from India.

- Simple Vishwakarma

The fee hike is set to impact applicants seeking faster decisions under Optional Practical Training (OPT), STEM OPT extensions, and key employment-based visa categories, which are widely used by global technology firms, consulting companies and startups reliant on foreign talent.

The increase follows a final rule issued by the Department of Homeland Security, which said the revised charges are designed to reflect inflation between June 2023 and June 2025. Officials said the adjustment would help the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) maintain operational stability amid rising administrative expenses.