Why USCIS Now Requires Electronic Payment and What It Means for Your Application

USCIS moved to electronic payment only in 2024

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) stopped accepting checks, money orders, and cash for most immigration forms and fees as of a specific date in 2024. All payments now go through their online payment system or, in limited cases, through a payment processor they direct you to. This change affects anyone filing forms with USCIS—whether for work permits, green cards, citizenship, or other immigration matters.

The shift to electronic-only payment means you cannot mail a check with your application. You must pay before or during the filing process using a credit card, debit card, or bank account transfer. If you file by mail, you still need to have paid electronically first. If you file online through their portal, payment happens as part of that same transaction.

This mandate applies to nearly all USCIS forms that carry a fee. A small number of forms remain free, and some fee waivers or reductions still exist—but the payment method, when required, is electronic only.

Key Takeaways

• USCIS no longer accepts checks, money orders, or cash; all payments must be made electronically through their system or an authorized processor.
• You must pay before mailing a paper application or as part of filing online, and payment must be completed before your form is considered received.
• Credit cards, debit cards, and bank account transfers (ACH) are the accepted payment methods, though which ones are available depends on how you file.
• If you file by mail, you will receive a receipt number after paying online; include that number with your mailed documents so USCIS can match them to your payment.
• Fee waivers and reductions are still available for those who cannot afford the full fee, but the request itself must be submitted electronically with your form.

How to pay when you file online

If you create an account on the USCIS online filing portal (USCIS.gov), you will be prompted to pay during the application process. The system accepts credit cards and debit cards at that point. You complete the form, review it, and then enter payment information before submission. Once the payment processes, you receive a confirmation number and your application is officially filed.

The online portal is the fastest route because payment and filing happen in one step. You do not have to print, mail, or track separate receipts. Keep your confirmation number and any receipt the system provides—you may need it if you contact USCIS later about your case.

How to pay when you file by mail

If you prefer to mail your application, you must still pay electronically first. Go to USCIS.gov, find the form you are filing, and look for the payment option or link. Pay online using a credit card or debit card, and you will receive a receipt with a payment confirmation number.

Print that receipt or write down the confirmation number, then include it with your mailed application. Do not send any payment method (check, money order, cash) in the envelope. USCIS will match your mailed documents to your online payment using the confirmation number. If the number is missing or incorrect, your application may be delayed or rejected.

Mail your application to the address listed on the form instructions. Processing times for mailed applications are typically longer than for online filings, so factor that into your timeline.

What payment methods are accepted

USCIS accepts credit cards and debit cards through their online system. Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover are standard. When you enter your card information, the payment processes immediately, and you receive a confirmation.

Some forms or filing methods may also allow bank account transfers (ACH), though this is less common. If ACH is an option for your form, the system will show it during the payment step. ACH transfers take longer to process than card payments, so your confirmation may not appear instantly.

Cash and checks are no longer accepted under any circumstances. Money orders are also no longer accepted. If you do not have a credit or debit card, you may be able to use a prepaid card, a card issued by a bank or credit union, or ask someone else to pay on your behalf using their card.

Fee waivers and reductions still exist

USCIS still allows you to request a fee waiver or reduction if you cannot afford the full fee. The process is electronic now, like everything else. You submit Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver or Fee Reduction, along with your main application. Both go through the same electronic system.

To request a waiver or reduction, you typically need to show that your household income is at or below a certain level, or that paying the fee would cause serious hardship. The income thresholds change yearly and depend on your household size. USCIS publishes these thresholds on their website.

If your waiver is approved, you do not pay the fee. If it is denied or only partially approved, you will be told how much you owe and given a deadline to pay. Payment still happens electronically at that point.

What happens if payment fails or is declined

If your card is declined or the payment does not go through, the system will tell you immediately. Try again with the same card or a different one. If the problem persists, contact your bank to make sure the card is active and has available funds.

If you are filing by mail and your online payment fails, do not mail your application yet. Resolve the payment issue first, get a valid confirmation number, and then mail your documents. Mailing without a successful payment will cause delays.

If you have already mailed your application and later discover the payment did not process, contact USCIS as soon as possible. Provide your application receipt number (if you have one) and explain the situation. USCIS may give you time to complete the payment, or they may return your application.

Why USCIS made this change

USCIS moved to electronic payment to reduce processing delays and errors. Paper checks and money orders had to be manually matched to applications, which slowed down the system. Electronic payments are instant and automatically linked to your case, so USCIS can process your form faster.

The change also reduces the risk of lost or stolen payments in the mail. When you pay electronically, there is a digital record from the moment the transaction completes. This protects both you and USCIS.

The mandate applies government-wide as part of a broader shift toward digital government services. Other federal agencies have made similar moves in recent years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still mail a check if I include a note explaining why?

No. USCIS will not accept checks under any circumstances, regardless of the reason. If you mail a check, your application will be rejected or returned. You must pay electronically before mailing your form.

What if I do not have a credit card or debit card?

You can use a prepaid card, a debit card from a bank or credit union, or ask a family member or friend to pay using their card. Some community organizations also help people pay USCIS fees; contact your local immigration legal services provider to ask.

Do I need to pay again if I file a new form later?

Yes. Each form has its own fee (unless it is fee-exempt), and each fee must be paid separately when you file that form. Paying for one form does not cover future forms.

Will USCIS refund my payment if my application is denied?

No. USCIS does not refund filing fees, even if your application is denied. The fee covers the cost of processing your form, not a may provide of approval. Fee waivers are the only way to avoid paying if you cannot afford it.

How long does it take for my payment to show up in USCIS records?

Credit and debit card payments are usually recorded instantly. You will receive a confirmation number right away. If you use ACH (bank transfer), it may take a few business days. Either way, keep your confirmation number as proof of payment.