Premium Processing Fees Are Increasing in 2026: How to Plan Smartly for USCIS Filings

2. What Is Premium Processing and Why Do People Use It?

The premium processing fee refers to an optional expedited service requested via Form I-907 for select USCIS filings seeking faster action within a defined premium processing time. It’s widely used when timing is critical, such as job changes, travel planning, OPT transitions, or tight employment authorization deadlines. People often choose premium service to maintain continuity in employment status or decision certainty. While costs like the H1B fee, application fee for h1b visa, or an opt premium processing fee differ, the key benefit remains predictability when speed matters. EB1A Premium vs Regular Processing Explained

3. What’s Changing in 2026?

From March 1, 2026, the premium processing fee will increase due to an inflation adjustment based on the Consumer Price Index. The premium processing time remains the same, only the costs change. These adjustments apply to premiums filed postmarked on or after that date.

Here’s a simplified fee comparison (old vs new):

Table compiled from official fee schedules.

4. What Does This Mean for Candidates and Employers?

For Individuals

The increase in the premium processing fee means that the cost of filing for time-sensitive applications (for example, the I-140 Premium Processing Fee or the EB1A premium processing) will be higher than in previous years. However, the Premium Processing Service remains the same and will allow applicants to get faster confirmation of their ability to work or obtain an approved work permit. This type of service is still invaluable for applicants who are managing the transition from their Optional Practical Training (OPT)/STEM OPT, planning their travel, and/or making employment decisions based on their start date.

For Employers & Human Resource (HR) Professionals

Employers and HR professionals should adjust their immigration budget for 2026 to account for the increase in premium processing service fee costs, as well as any other costs associated with filing for visa services, such as H1B Premium processing. Employers should also evaluate their timeline for filing expedited services to manage multiple filings during their busiest periods. Planning well in advance will minimize the likelihood of rush filing requests and the costs associated with additional filings created by timing bottlenecks.

5. What Has NOT Changed?

The premium processing fee is rising due to increased costs of providing the service, but premium processing times and the assurance of approval remain unchanged. While premium processing provides expedited decision-making, it does not eliminate USCIS requests for additional evidence.

6. How to Prepare Now?

It is important to plan for the future of your immigration strategy. If you anticipate filing an I-140 in late 2025 or early 2026, consider budgeting for the increased premium processing fee and any future premium processing fees. Take time now to determine which cases will require an expedited answer and make appropriate adjustments to your immigration strategy, budgeting, travel or appointment scheduling, etc. This will help minimize the burden on yourself and others involved in the process.

7. Conclusion: Plan Early, Avoid Stress

Remember that although the cost of premium processing has increased, it does not diminish the benefits of faster processing times and peace of mind. By preparing now and budgeting accordingly, applicants and employers can confidently and clearly approach their immigration filings in 2026.

With the Premium processing fee increasing in 2026, early awareness is the best advantage. Applicants and employers who review timelines, budget accurately, and decide strategically on Premium processing time can avoid rushed decisions and unexpected costs. Planning now helps maintain immigration predictability, even as fees evolve.