USCIS Hikes Premium Processing Fees for H-1B, Other Visas from March 1, 2026

• USCIS will increase premium processing fees for several visa categories, effective March 1, 2026.
• The fee for H-1B and other I-129 categories will rise from $2,805 to $2,965.
• H-2B or R-1 non-immigrant status fees will increase from $1,685 to $1,780.
• Fees for F-1, J-1, M-1 students (Form I-539) will go from $1,965 to $2,075; OPT/STEM-OPT (Form I-765) from $1,685 to $1,780.
• The increase, based on inflation, aims to fund USCIS services and improve decision-making processes.

Why It Matters: USCIS is raising premium processing fees for various visas, including H-1B, effective March 2026.