The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced an interim final rule regarding immigration fees. Specifically, the department proposed new penalties regarding asylum fees. The new rule’s effective May 29, 2026.
Annual Asylum Fee
The most important proposed rule is the new asylum fee penalty. If an individual doesn’t pay the Annual Asylum Fee (AAF) within thirty days of notification, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will reject the pending asylum application and initiate removal procedures. Applicants with employment authorization lose their status immediately upon USCIS’ denial.
Additionally, the rule also implements additional requirements outlined in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act:
- Form I-589 filing fee: USCIS will now keep the filing fee for Form I-589 if the agency rejects the form as improperly filed.
- Temporary Protected Status (TPS) employment authorization: USCIS is updating regulations limiting the employment authorization period for those under TPS to one year or the remaining TPS designation period, whichever is shorter.
- Form I-102, Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Document, filing fee: The rule establishes a minimum $24 fee to file Form I-102, in addition to other required fees.
As always, ILBSG actively monitors ongoing U.S. immigration news. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, contact us. Working with an experienced attorney ensures you get the right advice based on the most recent laws. In an ever-evolving immigration policy landscape, it’s particularly critical you get the right advice.