DHS enforces new H.R. 1 immigration fees and rejects unpaid asylum applications

10 articles · Updated · USCIS · Apr 28

The interim final rule takes effect May 29, 2026, requiring annual asylum fees and a $24 Form I-102 fee, with pending applications rejected if fees remain unpaid.
Asylum seekers who fail to pay the Annual Asylum Fee within 30 days will have applications and work authorizations terminated, and may face removal if lacking legal status.
These measures, mandated by the 2025 H.R. 1 Reconciliation Act, aim to fund immigration enforcement and ensure applicants cover service costs, with public comments accepted until June 29, 2026.

Are the new immigration fees a funding mechanism or a tool to deter asylum claims?

What happens to the million-plus pending asylum cases under the new fee policy?

How will asylum seekers survive a year without work permits under the new rule?

Can the US healthcare system handle the influx from immigrants losing Medicaid coverage?

How will H.R. 1's deep cuts to social programs impact immigrant families and children?

Will expanded data collection for US travel visas deter international business and tourism?