Ways to Pay for Immigration Forms

Immigrating is a long and expensive process.

The immigration process is not only lengthy but expensive as well. Forms, whether e-filed or mailed in, must be filed in the correct order and with the exact fees to be considered valid. Where multiple applications are necessary, separate non-refundable fees should accompany each application -- even when the case is withdrawn or denied. Applicants should be aware that United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will not accept cash or travelers' checks for form filing fees. Applicants must also follow USCIS instructions closely to prevent forms from being returned, unprocessed.

Checks

USCIS requests payment by check for filing forms.

The majority of United States immigration forms must be filed via mail. USCIS encourages payment for filing fees in the form of a check; personal, cashier's, certified or bank drafts are acceptable. A money order can also be used, but it must be drawn on a bank within the United States. Your application to USCIS will not be considered if you do include the exact amount due for the immigration form being submitted.

Electronic Funds Transfer

Checks sent to USCIS are converted into electronic funds transfers (EFT). This means that you will not receive the check back. USCIS scans the check and uses the account information to debit your account electronically for the requested sum. Your original check is destroyed, but its scanned image is saved to file. EFT usually takes approximately 24 hours to process and show up on your account.

EFT may also be used for payment with the e-file forms available online from USCIS. These transfers must be made from a financial institution within the United States where you hold a savings or checking account. With EFT for e-file forms, there is no paper check involved. You complete information on the USCIS website -- including providing your bank account number and bank's 9-digit routing number -- that authorizes the withdrawal and transfer of funds directly from your checking or savings account to USCIS.

Credit or Debit Cards

Use credit or debit cards for e-filing only.

It is possible to file a small number of immigration forms online, and these e-filed applications are payable via credit or debit cards, as well as by electronic transfer of funds. Credit and debit cards must bear a MasterCard, Visa, Discover or American Express logo. Applicants will also be asked to provide the three- or four-digit security number if using American Express, although it is not required with the other cards.

Considerations

Don't forget to sign your check.

You should inspect your check with a critical eye before mailing. Be sure you include the date, in the order of day, month and year. Make checks out in long form only, to the "U.S. Department of Homeland Security." Jot a brief summary of the form being filed in the memo section. Do not forget to sign your legal signature. When e-filing, be aware that USCIS does not refund filing fees charged or debited, so be sure to double check the amount and to submit only the forms you need. Confirm that your bank or credit union will honor an electronic transfer from your account, because a small number of them will not.

References

• USCIS: Paying Immigration Fees
• USCIS: Instructions for I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence Or Adjust Status
• ImmiHelp: USCIS Fees
• USCIS: Paying Fees for E-Filed Applications

Resources

• USCIS: General Information on Immigration Forms