USCIS Requires Mandatory Electronic Payments for Applications Starting October 28, 2025
3 min read
Federal agency USCIS has announced a significant change to its payment policy: starting October 28, 2025, only electronic payments will be accepted for applications or petitions filed in paper format. (USCIS) This article covers the what, why, and how of this change, so that you — whether an applicant or immigration attorney — can be prepared and avoid setbacks.
What Exactly Is Changing?
- Currently, USCIS accepts payments by check, money order, credit and debit cards, and now also by direct debit (ACH) from a U.S. bank account. (USCIS)
- Starting October 28, 2025, only the following will be accepted:
- Paper payments by check or money order will be rejected if submitted after October 28, 2025. (Herman Legal Group)
- If you do not have a U.S. bank account, you may use Form G-1450 to pay by card. (Ogletree)
Why This Change?
USCIS explains that more than 90% of payments are currently made by check or money order, which creates delays, higher administrative costs, and risks of fraud or lost payments. (Ogletree) The change also responds to Executive Order 14247, “Modernizing Payments To and From America’s Bank Account,” which requires the federal government to reduce paper payments. (USCIS)
What Should You Do If You Are Filing an Application?
- Verify that your payment is made using one of the permitted methods (G-1650 for bank account debit, or G-1450 for card).
- If you use ACH debit (G-1650), make sure your bank account is a U.S. account, has sufficient funds, and is properly authorized. (USCIS)
- If you do not have a U.S. bank account, use G-1450 with a credit or debit card, including a prepaid card if accepted. (Ogletree)
- Do not send checks or money orders after October 28, 2025: your application may be rejected, and you will lose your filing date. (Herman Legal Group)
- For your firm (as an immigration attorney) or for your clients: review internal procedures and update your filing checklist to reflect this change.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
- A rejected payment or a non-permitted method will cause the application to be considered not filed, which can affect deadlines, priority dates, and the applicant’s rights. (Ogletree)
- Organizations, employers, or sponsoring individuals must adapt now, or they could face significant delays in their immigration processes.
This change represents another step toward the digitalization of immigration procedures in the U.S. As a law firm that supports the immigrant community with compassion and professionalism — guided by the principles of faith that inform its work — it is important to prepare clients to face this type of transition without fear. Encouraging them to review their accounts, payment methods, and documents in advance can make the difference between a smooth approval and an unnecessary setback.
