Immigration Just Got More Expensive: What You Need to Know About the “Big Beautiful Bill”

by Mireya Martinez, Managing Attorney

 

On July 5, 2025, President Trump signed into law what’s been unofficially dubbed the “Big Beautiful Bill.” This bill significantly raises immigration fees across the board. The changes took immediate effect and will impact nearly every noncitizen navigating the immigration system.

At Motion Law, we believe in empowering immigrants with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. Here’s what the new law means for you:

Key Immigration Fee Increases Under the New Law

Asylum Seekers

• Initial asylum application: $100
• Annual asylum case fee (while pending): $100
• Initial EAD (work permit): $550
• EAD renewal (valid for only 1 year): $275 (renewable every 6 months)

➡️ An asylum seeker with a 5-year pending case could pay more than $1,150 in EAD and status-related fees alone.

Humanitarian Parole Applicants

• Parole request: $1,000
• Initial EAD: $550
• EAD renewal: $275

Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

• TPS application: $500
• Initial EAD: $550
• EAD renewal: $275

Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS)

• SIJS petition: $250

Some fee waiver possibilities remain, but are limited.

Immigration Court-Related Fees

• Continuance request: $100
• Motion to Reopen or Reconsider: $900
• BIA appeals: $900
• Adjustment of status in court: $1,500
• In absentia removal or apprehension: Up to $5,000

Visa & Adjustment Fees

• Visa integrity fee: $250 (refundable if fully compliant)
• Adjustment of Status (Form I-485): $1,500

Other Changes

• Form I-94 issuance: $30
• No fee waivers: Broadly eliminated for asylum, TPS, and parole-based filings
• EADs shortened: Validity now 1 year, with renewals required every 6 months in many cases

What’s Next?

Although USCIS may take several weeks to fully implement system changes, the new fee schedule is now law. Expect full enforcement by late July to early August 2025.

What This Means for Immigrants

If you’re planning to apply for asylum, TPS, parole, SIJS, or any other immigration benefit—act fast and budget accordingly. These changes could delay or deter access to protection and lawful status for many.

At Motion Law, we’re here to help you navigate these changes strategically and ensure your rights are protected. Call us today at (202) 918-1799 to schedule a consultation.