US visa fees could soar from early 2024

The USCIS has postponed the final ruling on fee proposal hikes, which is now expected in December or January 2024. The proposed fee rule aims to increase revenue for the immigration agency to address processing backlogs. It includes hikes in fees for H-1B route, E-registration, filing fees for H-1B applications, and citizenship applications. The biggest increases are for EB-5 investors. Immigration attorneys recommend investments in the EB5 program before the fee hikes take effect and suggest early filing to avoid higher fees for acquiring US citizenship or a green card.