USCIS Electronic Payment Update: Paper Checks End October 28, 2025
USCIS Electronic Payment: Paper Checks End October 28, 2025
On August 29, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced a major update: starting October 28, 2025, USCIS will no longer accept paper checks or money orders for filing fees. This shift to electronic payment aims to improve security and speed up processing for applicants.
What Will Be Accepted?
After October 28, all fees must be paid electronically using one of these methods:
- ACH direct debit from a U.S. bank account using Form G-1650 (Authorization for ACH Transactions)
- Credit or prepaid credit card payment using Form G-1450 (Authorization for Credit Card Transactions)
About Form G-1650
USCIS introduced Form G-1650 to allow secure direct debit payments. You must complete and sign this form before filing any application, petition, or request with a fee.
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Transitional Period (Until October 28, 2025)
Until the deadline, USCIS will still accept:
- Paper checks and money orders
- Credit card payments (Form G-1450)
- ACH debit payments (Form G-1650)
After October 28, 2025
ACH direct debit from a U.S. bank account using Form G-1650, Authorization for ACH Transactions, or Credit card payment using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions.
Important Reminders for Applicants
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Make sure your bank account has enough funds to cover the fee.
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If your payment is denied, USCIS may reject your application.
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If you don’t have a U.S. bank account, use Form G-1450 with a credit or prepaid card.
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Check the updated USCIS Policy Manual for guidance on ACH payments.
Why This Matters -
USCIS electronic payment reduces delays and minimizes the risk of lost or returned checks. It also aligns with USCIS’s modernization efforts to make immigration processes more efficient.
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