I remember helping a friend read a USCIS page late at night. We were both tired and worried. He asked, “Will they charge me now, or later?” Today, that answer got clearer for a lot of people.

What changed today

DHS and USCIS announced a new $1,000 “immigration parole” fee. It applies when USCIS grants parole or re-parole, unless you qualify for an exception. The fee is set for FY 2025 and may change each year with inflation. The official notice is now on the Federal Register, and USCIS updated its pages to explain the basics. 

What is parole?

Parole is temporary permission to enter or stay in the U.S. for urgent reasons. It is not a green card. Some people ask for parole to reunite with family in an emergency, get medical care, or join a program created by DHS. When USCIS approves parole, the person may need to pay this new fee.

Do you pay with the form?

No. USCIS says do not pay when you file. If they decide they can approve your request and it requires payment, they will tell you how to pay. This is different from many immigration forms where you pay at filing time. 

Who might be exempt?

USCIS says there are exceptions, but the public guidance is still filling in details. The Federal Register notice is the anchor, and agency pages will add more instructions. For now, plan for the fee unless you are clearly covered by an exception. 

Why now?

Congress passed rules (H.R. 1) that led DHS to set this fee. The government says it helps cover costs tied to parole decisions and processing. The fee also signals a policy direction: fewer free lanes, more pay-as-you-go steps for special pathways. 

How this could affect you

• Budgeting: If you expect a parole decision soon, set aside funds now.
• Timing: Because you pay only if approved, watch email and mail closely for a payment notice.
• Family plans: If multiple family members seek parole, multiply the costs accordingly, unless an exception applies.

Common questions

Is this on top of other fees?

It can be, depending on your case. Parole is separate from things like work permits. Check our [Work Permit Guide] internal link.

Does this change DACA, asylum, or TPS?

No. This fee is tied to parole. But some people using humanitarian programs that rely on parole could feel the cost.

What if I can’t afford it?

Ask about exceptions or help from nonprofits. Keep proof of hardship. If you miss a payment deadline after approval, your parole may not be issued.

How do I pay?

USCIS will provide instructions after they decide they can approve you and that payment is required. Follow the exact steps they provide. 

Practical tips

• Track your case: Make a simple checklist with dates, notices, and any payment deadlines.
• Save receipts: Keep screenshots and email confirmations.
• Ask early: If you work with a lawyer or clinic, share this update right away so they can plan.

Where to learn more

• USCIS alert page (plain-language updates).  
• Federal Register notice (legal text and footnotes).  

Suggested internal links:

• What Is Parole? (BorderWire explainer)
• How to Apply for Advance Parole (BorderWire guide)
• Fee Help & Low-Cost Legal Aid (resource page)