USCIS Now Charging a $1,000 Fee for Immigration Parole

The U.S. government has started charging a new $1,000 fee for people who are approved for immigration parole or re-parole. This rule comes from the H.R. 1 Reconciliation Bill and has been effective since October 16, 2025. The amount may increase each year based on inflation.

What You Need to Know

If you are paroled or re-paroled into the United States, you will now need to pay this $1,000 fee before your parole is approved.

Here’s how it works:

• You do not pay this fee when you file Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document).
• Instead, USCIS will send you a notice after your request is reviewed, with payment instructions and a deadline.
• The government will not grant parole until the fee is paid.
• In some cases, the fee may be collected by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Are There Exceptions?

Yes. Some people do not have to pay the $1,000 fee. These exceptions include:

• People with urgent medical emergencies.
• Those traveling to the U.S. for a family emergency, like a dying relative.
• Adopted children who need immediate medical care before the adoption is finalized.
• People helping U.S. law enforcement or assisting the government in specific cases.

If you believe your situation might qualify, talk to an immigration lawyer before paying the fee.

What This Means for You

This new rule adds another step and cost for people applying for parole or re-parole. It’s important to plan ahead, follow all instructions carefully, and pay attention to your deadlines. Missing a payment could delay or stop your parole from being approved.

Final Thoughts

The new parole fee has been effective since October 16, 2025, nd all applicants must be aware of the new requirements to avoid delays or denials. If you or your family are considering applying for parole or re-parole, take the time to review the Federal Register notice and check if you may qualify for an exception.

At Kaza Law, we understand how confusing these new changes can feel. Our mission is to guide immigrants with clarity, compassion, and care so you never have to go through it alone.

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My name is Daven Ghandi, and I’m a U.S. immigration lawyer and the founder of KAZA Law. In this article, we discussed the challenges and limited options for obtaining a green card while on a tourist visa. If you’re considering adjusting your status or have questions about family-based sponsorship, employment-based petitions, or other immigration pathways, it’s essential to understand the complexities involved. If you need personalized advice or have any immigration-related concerns, I encourage you to schedule a free consultation by clicking this link.