When applying for a U.S. visa, green card, or other immigration benefits, paying fees correctly is just as important as filling out the forms. Recently, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced a major change to how applicants can submit payments. The agency is moving toward electronic fund transfers (ACH debit payments), making the process faster, safer, and more convenient.
This shift is part of the federal government’s broader effort to modernize payment systems in line with Executive Order 14247, Modernizing Payments to and from America’s Bank Account. If you’re planning to apply for any immigration benefit soon, here’s everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
What Is Changing with USCIS Fee Payments?
Previously, most applicants relied on checks and money orders to pay their USCIS filing fees. According to USCIS, over 90% of payments still come in this form, causing delays in processing and increasing the risk of lost or fraudulent payments.
Now, applicants can use Form G-1650 (Authorization for ACH Transactions) to make direct payments from a U.S. bank account. This means funds will be electronically withdrawn, ensuring faster and more secure processing.
In addition, USCIS will continue to accept credit card payments using Form G-1450 (Authorization for Credit Card Transactions).
However, there’s a deadline:
- Until October 28, 2025, applicants can still pay by check, money order, credit card, or ACH debit.
- After that date, only ACH debit (Form G-1650) and credit card (Form G-1450) payments will be accepted.
Why This Change Matters
USCIS emphasizes that this modernization will improve efficiency and reduce risks. Matthew J. Tragesser, a USCIS spokesperson, stated:
“Over 90% of our payments come from checks and money orders, causing processing delays and increasing the risk of fraud and lost payments. America deserves better, and we intend to deliver.”
For applicants, this means:
- Faster processing of immigration applications.
- Reduced risk of payment errors, fraud, or lost checks.
- Convenience of paying directly from a bank account or with a credit card.
How to Use ACH Debit for USCIS Payments
If you plan to pay using a U.S. bank account:
- Complete Form G-1650, Authorization for ACH Transactions.
- Include it with your immigration application, petition, or request.
- Ensure your bank account has sufficient funds before submission.
⚠️ Important: If the payment is declined due to insufficient funds, USCIS may reject your entire application.
What If You Don’t Have a U.S. Bank Account?
Not every applicant has a U.S.-based bank account. If that’s your situation, you can still pay using:
- Form G-1450 (Credit Card Authorization) with a prepaid or regular credit card.
This ensures that international applicants and petitioners without U.S. bank accounts can still move forward with their immigration process.
Updated USCIS Policy Guidance
USCIS has also updated its Policy Manual to reflect these changes, officially recognizing ACH debit payments via Form G-1650 as an acceptable payment method. You can read the official policy update directly on the USCIS website.
Preparing for Future Applications
As USCIS continues to modernize its systems, applicants should:
- Stay updated with policy announcements.
- Double-check payment methods before submitting forms.
- Ensure all accounts or credit cards have enough funds to cover the required fees.
If you’re also preparing for other stages of your U.S. immigration journey, you may want to read our detailed guide on How to Fill DS-160 Form for US Visa Online (2025 Guide), which explains one of the most important steps for visa applicants.
Final Thoughts
The introduction of ACH debit payments is a welcome change for U.S. immigration applicants. By reducing reliance on outdated paper-based transactions, USCIS is improving security, efficiency, and convenience for thousands of people each year.
If you’re planning to apply for a U.S. visa, green card, or adjustment of status, make sure to familiarize yourself with Form G-1650 and Form G-1450 well ahead of time. This small step could save you from unnecessary delays and complications in your immigration journey.
✅ Key Takeaway: Starting October 28, 2025, USCIS will no longer accept checks and money orders. All applicants must use ACH debit (Form G-1650) or credit card (Form G-1450) for filing fee payments.
