Fee Waiver Guidance

Fee Waiver Guidance

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is funded largely by application and petition fees.  Recognizing that some applicants cannot pay the filing fees, USCIS established a fee waiver process for certain forms and benefit types. Demonstrated inability to pay is the only reason USCIS will approve a fee waiver.

Waiving a fee for one applicant transfers the cost of processing their application to other applicants through higher fees.  Therefore, USCIS carefully considers the merits of each fee waiver request before making a decision.

How do I request a fee waiver?

• Read the instructions for Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, to see if a fee waiver is available for the form you are filing.

• Use Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver if possible.  We will also accept a written request. 

• File your fee waiver request with the form for which you are requesting the fee waiver.  Do not send a fee waiver request by itself.

Note: You cannot use our e-Filing system to file a form for which you are requesting a fee waiver.  Please file a paper application.

How does USCIS make a decision on a fee waiver request?  To be eligible for a fee waiver, one of the following must be met:

• You or qualified members of your household are currently receiving a means- tested benefit. A means-tested benefit is one for which the individuals’ income/resources determine eligibility and/or the benefit amount. 

• Your household income is at or below the 150% poverty level at the time you file.  Check the 2013 poverty levels at this link:  Form I-912P, HHS Poverty Guidelines for Fee Waiver Requests.

• You are experiencing a financial hardship that prevents you from paying the filing fee, including unexpected medical bills or emergencies. 

Where can I get more information?  You can find more information at these links: 

• Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver

• Form I-912P, HHS Poverty Guidelines for Fee Waiver Requests.

• USCIS Fee Waiver Policy

• IMPORTANT NOTICE: Paperwork Reduction Act Information [OMB No. 1615-0116, Expires 10/31/2012]

This page can be found at http://www.uscis.gov/feewaiver

Last updated:04/19/2013