Liudmila Marcelo, an expert in immigration law, shared with CiberCuba the challenges her team is facing with the new fees introduced by the fiscal law signed by President Donald Trump on July 4th. This law mandates a $100 annual fee for asylum seekers with open cases.
Marcelo explained, "During this first week, our asylum applications were rejected by the court due to non-payment. We had to persistently contact the courts. A colleague reached out, wrote to them, and was told, 'We'll accept it, and once the payment method is available, we'll send a 'call-up date' or a 'scheduling order' for payment.' In my case, I insisted, but received no response. It was only after repeatedly reaching out that they acknowledged there’s currently no way to process the new fees. I explored every possible payment method, but none worked."
This situation raises the pressing question: how are these fees supposed to be paid? "They established these fees and increased some costs, but the payment method hasn't been implemented," Marcelo noted. "For motions to reopen and appeals, the payment method was already in place, directly on the court's website. However, for asylum cases, no such system was set up, leading to chaos. Deadlines exist, and missing them because of payment issues leaves clients unprotected."
Marcelo reassures asylum seekers that they shouldn't panic. The payment method for the $100 annual fee is not yet in place. "If the asylum has already been filed, amendments can be submitted without incurring a charge. Those who filed their asylum applications on time can rest easy," she clarified.
President Donald Trump signed the "Big and Beautiful Law" on July 4th, coinciding with Independence Day. The law, narrowly passed by Congress with 218 votes in favor and 214 against, poses a challenge for immigrants by increasing the cost of immigration procedures. From July 4th, the cost for a humanitarian parole application is $1,000, TPS fees rise from $50 to $500, asylum remains at $100 annually while open, work permits for TPS, asylum, and parole cost $550, appeal fees climb from $110 to $900, and residency application fees increase from $1,440 to $1,500, among other changes.
FAQs on New Asylum Fee Regulations
What is the new fee for asylum seekers under Trump's fiscal law?
Asylum seekers are required to pay a $100 annual fee as part of the new fiscal regulations introduced by President Trump's law.
Why are asylum applications being rejected?
Applications are being rejected due to the inability to process the newly mandated fees, as the payment method has yet to be implemented.
How should asylum seekers proceed with their applications?
Asylum seekers are advised to remain calm as the payment method has not been finalized. Amendments to existing applications can be submitted without additional charges.