US immigrants face application fee hikes

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services this week announced proposals for major hikes in application fees. The increases, in some cases amounting to 500%, are expected to go through in June.
The proposed application fee increases include:
- $905 for a green card application; thecurrent fee is $325.
- $1,370 for adjustment of status from temporary to lawful permanent resident, up from $180.
- $340 for work authorization, up from $180.
- $595 for naturalized citizenship, up from $330.
- $290 to replace a lost or stolen green card, up from $190.

"We're confident that this fee adjustment will enable the type of exceptional immigration service our nation expects and deserves," said a statement from USCIS Director Emilio Gonzalez on Wednesday.

Immigration advocates, however, say the price hikes will pose a significant obstacle for many immigrants.

The proposals are subject to a public comment period; to comment, visit www.regulations.gov; use the “agency” box to click on “U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services” and hit “submit”. You will then be shown the document, “Adjustment of the Immigration and Naturalization Benefit Application and Petition Fee Schedule”. Click on the “Docket ID” to read the comments submitted, and “Document ID” for instructions on making a comment.