U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services shifts to electronic debit payments, modernizing immigration fee processing (Photo: Pinterest)
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has transitioned toward a completely electronic payment system, substituting cheques and money orders with electronic debit transactions. The transition, which took effect this week is another move by the agency to update its operations and lower the risks involved with paper-based payments.
Applicants filing petitions or applications are now required to include Form G-1650, granting permission to USCIS to directly draw money from a bank account in the United States. The move aims to enhance efficiency and accuracy is allowing for confirmation of payments at a faster rate and less administrative downtime. The agency added that the transition will reduce its financial system's complexity and boost security for applicants as well as the government.
USCIS public affairs officer Matthew J. Tragesser said that more than 90 percent of payments for immigration related matters were formerly made by cheque or money order. Such a system normally resulted in delays, missing payments and even cases of fraud. "America should do better and we are going to deliver," Tragesser said, highlighting the commitment of the agency to transacting business in a more secure and efficient way.
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Converting to electronic debits is one aspect of a broader program of modernization designed to enhance service delivery and eliminate backlogs.
While the new method of payment promises to serve most users, it could be problematic for some applicants particularly those who lack U.S. bank accounts. Recently arrived employees, dependents who apply from overseas and foreign students could run into problems processing transactions.
Applicants should make sure their banking information is correct and that there are adequate funds available upon withdrawal. Inaccurate information or inadequate balances may result in automatic rejection of their applications. It's also advisable that people check with their banks to ensure that government transactions are not automatically blocked.
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Those without access to direct debit are also allowed to pay using a credit card with Form G-1450. USCIS still maintains regular fees for immigration services, including green card applications, H-1B petitions, work authorization applications and travel documents.
For individuals who are not served by U.S. banking services, prepaid credit cards could be an interim option with USCIS adopting a paperless system, applicants are advised to adjust early to prevent delays or inconvenience in their immigration process.
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Disclaimer: This article provides general information about USCIS payment updates and should not be taken as legal or financial advice.
