USCIS Premium Processing Fee Update – Effective March 1, 2026

Effective March 1, 2026, USCIS increased the Premium Processing fee for most Form I-129 and I-140 employment-based petitions from $2,805 to $2,965 — a 5.7% increase. While the increase may appear modest, strategic use of Premium Processing can significantly impact workforce continuity, onboarding timelines, and corporate immigration compliance.

Premium Processing allows employers to request expedited adjudication of key work visa and green card filings with decisions issued from 15 to 45 calendar days depending on the classification.

Examples of Eligible Petitions Include:

• H-1B Specialty Occupation
• L-1A Executives & Managers
• L-1B Specialized Knowledge
• Form I-140 (EB-1, EB-2 NIW, EB-3)

Why This Matters for HR & Employers
For companies sponsoring foreign national employees, Premium Processing helps:

• Accelerate H-1B transfers and amendments
• Expedite L-1 executive relocations
• Advance employment-based green card strategy
• Reduce workforce disruption and compliance risk

Gilani Law Firm supports employers, HR teams, and in-house counsel with strategic business immigration solutions including H-1B sponsorship, L-1A/L-1B visa strategy, I-140 filings, and corporate immigration compliance planning. Knowing when and how to use Premium Processing effectively, whether to protect timelines or control costs, is why companies partner with our business immigration team.

https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/uscis-to-increase-premium-processing-fees​

https://www.uscis.gov/forms/all-forms/how-do-i-request-premium-processing