November 25, 2025 - 11:09 AM

USCIS Now Requires Electronic Payments for Paper-Filed Forms 

Written by Samantha A. McMahan

As of October 28, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires that all fees for paper-filed applications/petitions be paid electronically. While paper filings themselves are still permitted, traditional payment methods, such as checks and money orders, are no longer accepted. Instead, filers must authorize payment through one of two forms:

  • Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions, to pay by credit/debit card; or
  • Form G-1650, Authorization for ACH Transactions, to pay directly from a U.S. bank account.

Any paper filing that includes a check, money order, or other non-electronic payment will now be rejected.

This change is part of USCIS’s ongoing effort to modernize its intake system and reduce processing delays caused by manual payment handling. However, early experiences show that even minor missteps in payment structure can lead to rejections. In particular, mixed or combined payments, e.g. using one payment to cover multiple forms, applicants, or fee types, are not permitted under the new policy. Each fee must have a separate and corresponding payment authorization form.

USCIS has published detailed guidance on its website, including a helpful table illustrating common fee payment scenarios: https://www.uscis.gov/forms/filing-fees

It is important to note: 1 benefit request = 1 credit card/1 authorized ACH transaction. Also, premium processing fees should be paid separately.

Example: You are filing an H-1B petition with premium processing and including an H-4 application for the H-1B worker’s dependent spous:. If you file Form I-129 with Form I-907, plus Form I-539 at the same time, you will need three separate Forms G-1450:

  1. One for the premium processing fee (Form I-907)
  2. One for the combined I-129 filing fees
  3. One for the I-539 filing fee

Each G-1450 should clearly identify the applicant or beneficiary, the credit card holder, and the attorney of record.

For corporate clients managing multiple employee filings, and for individuals submitting family or naturalization applications, these new payment requirements may necessitate updated internal procedures. Firms should ensure that staff are familiar with the forms, fee structures, and payment separation requirements to avoid rejection and delay.

The BHLG continues to monitor these developments closely and we are assisting clients in adapting filing practices to remain compliant. We can provide updated filing checklists, payment templates, and guidance to ensure each submission meets the new USCIS requirements without interruption. Please reach out to us should you need any additional guidance.