U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a major change in how applicants, petitioners, and requestors can pay immigration filing fees. The new system allows secure direct debit payments from U.S. bank accounts through Form G-1650, Authorization for ACH Transactions.

What Is Form G-1650?

Form G-1650 is a new USCIS form that authorizes payment of immigration filing fees by ACH debit (Automated Clearing House) directly from a U.S. bank account.

By completing and signing Form G-1650 and submitting it with your application, petition, or request, you can allow USCIS to process your payment electronically—without having to mail in checks or money orders.

Why Is USCIS Making This Change?

This update aligns with Executive Order 14247, Modernizing Payments to and from America’s Bank Account. According to USCIS, more than 90% of current immigration filing fees come through checks and money orders, which slow down case processing and increase the risk of fraud, theft, or lost payments.

What Payment Methods Are Accepted Now?

As of today, USCIS accepts the following payment methods:

• ACH Debit (U.S. bank account) using Form G-1650.
• Credit or Debit Card using Form G-1450 (including prepaid credit cards).
• Checks and Money Orders (but only until October 28, 2025).

After October 28, 2025, USCIS will only accept:

• ACH Debit with Form G-1650
• Credit/Debit Card with Form G-1450

Pros and Cons of the New Payment System

Like any change, this update comes with advantages and some drawbacks.

Pros:

• Faster processing and fewer delays compared to mailing checks.
• Reduced risk of fraud, lost mail, or stolen checks.
• Easier for applicants with U.S. bank accounts to pay directly.
• Still allows use of credit or prepaid debit cards.

Cons:

• No more check tracking: Previously, applicants and attorneys could use the copy of a cashed check to identify a receipt number when USCIS delayed sending notices. With ACH payments, this backup method will no longer be available.
• Applicants without a U.S. bank account must rely on credit or prepaid debit cards.
• Payments may be denied if the bank account lacks sufficient funds, leading to application rejections.

Important Things Applicants Should Know

• Make sure your U.S. bank account has sufficient funds to cover all filing fees.
• Keep copies of your signed Form G-1650 or G-1450 for your records.
• If you do not have a U.S. bank account, plan to use a credit card or prepaid debit card.

How This Change Impacts Immigration Clients?

For many applicants, especially those filing from within the United States, this change will make paying USCIS fees easier and more reliable. However, it also removes one of the most useful tools attorneys had to track case receipts—the cashed check.

However, this means applicants and attorneys will need to rely more heavily on USCIS case processing systems and official receipt notices to confirm filings.

Need Help Filing Your Immigration Application?

Navigating USCIS forms, fees, and payment requirements can be stressful—especially with new rules and changes like this. Our office helps clients ensure their applications are filed correctly and on time, with the proper forms and fees.

Contáctenos hoy Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get personalized guidance for your immigration case.