The United States government has rolled out a new fee structure that directly impacts those applying for political asylum or with ongoing cases within the immigration system. These measures introduce two mandatory fees, and failure to comply could result in case rejections, as immigration attorneys have warned. This has sparked concern and uncertainty among thousands of immigrants, particularly those who have been waiting for years for a resolution to their protection claims. Experts emphasize the importance of staying informed and avoiding hasty decisions amid what they describe as a chaotic scenario.
Mandatory Fees: Initial Application and Annual Charge for Pending Cases
Under the new framework, there are two separate and cumulative payments. The first is a flat fee of $100 for initially filing a political asylum application, applicable whether submitted online or by mail. This fee covers the complete form, regardless of the number of dependents included.
The second, more contentious fee is an annual $100 charge for each year a case remains unresolved, whether before the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), an immigration judge, or the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). This fee will particularly impact those who have been waiting years—even over a decade—for an official response. For many, this represents not just an additional financial burden but an added strain amidst already complex and prolonged processes.
"It's a significant change because we are talking about people who have been waiting up to a decade for their asylum interview," warned attorney De la Vega, speaking to Telemundo 51. He advised applicants to stay alert to official notifications and, in case of doubt, promptly contact an immigration specialist to avoid errors or noncompliance that could jeopardize their cases.
Uncertainty Regarding Payment Process and Timing
For court applications, a digital platform is now available where applicants can enter their alien number, make the payment, and download the receipt, which must be presented to the corresponding judge. However, for pending cases at any stage, there is still no clear official guidance on completing the annual fee payment. It is expected that the government will directly notify applicants in the upcoming months, outlining the appropriate procedure. This initial lack of clarity has caused anxiety among those in active processes who are unsure how to fulfill the new obligation.
Risk of Case Rejection Due to Nonpayment
One of the most critical warnings is that those who fail to meet the established payments might see their cases rejected, according to legal sources consulted. This makes the fee not only an economic obligation but also a crucial procedural requirement for the continuation of the asylum case. Therefore, attorneys like De la Vega stress that this new system marks a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy, potentially affecting thousands of applicants, especially those with limited financial resources or legal assistance.
Call for Calm Amid the "Chaos"
Attorney Ismael Labrador, interviewed by journalist Mario J. Pentón, stated that the implementation of these fees has caused genuine chaos among immigrants undergoing court asylum procedures. He noted that this includes individuals who entered since 2021 and the most recent arrivals through the CBP One application in 2023 and 2024. "Don't rush to court, don't commit a traffic violation, don't unnecessarily expose yourself. Of course, there's a lot of stress; the systems are overwhelmed," Labrador urged, calling for calm, patience, and caution. He advised those affected to wait for official payment instructions, reminding them that hasty or misinformed actions could be detrimental.
The imposition of fees in asylum processes—historically exempt from payment—represents a profound shift in the U.S. immigration system's approach to those seeking protection. While the government determines the collection mechanisms for pending cases, thousands of immigrants remain in limbo, concerned about the impact these new requirements might have on their legal status and their chances of staying in the country.
Understanding the New Asylum Fees in the U.S.
What are the new fees for asylum seekers in the U.S.?
The new fee structure includes a $100 fee for the initial asylum application and an additional $100 annual fee for each year a case remains unresolved.
Why have these fees been introduced?
These fees have been introduced as part of a new policy by the U.S. government to manage asylum applications and pending cases more effectively.
How can applicants pay these fees?
For cases in court, applicants can use a digital platform to enter their alien number, pay the fee, and download a receipt. However, guidelines for pending cases are not yet clearly outlined.