WASHINGTON – The government of the United States has announced to waive extra fees for biometrics for most applications.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has made the immigration process simpler and less expensive with the latest move which is in effect from April 1st this year.
According to the announcement, the fee has been waived for biometrics (like fingerprints and photographs) for most applications; the biometrics are collected to enhance security and verify the identity of applicants.
The latest measure has significantly reduced the number of applications that require a separate biometrics fee as the cost of biometrics is now included in the main filing fee for most applications.
Before the rule change applications for Green Cards (Form I-485), Work Permits (Form I-765), Travel Documents (Form I-131), Naturalization (Form N-400), and other forms required payment of the biometrics fee.
As far as the eligibility for waiver is concerned, the relaxation applies to most applications, but there are a couple of exceptions. For instance, people applying for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or some cases handled by the Executive Office for Immigration Review will still need to pay a $30 fee for biometrics.
The fee waiver is aimed at simplifying the application process, enhancing accessibility, and responding to stakeholder feedback – a move that reflects USCIS’s commitment to balancing the affordability and operational needs of the department while also striking a balance between a more transparent and secure immigration experience for applicants.
