[{"data":1,"prerenderedAt":-1},["ShallowReactive",2],{"blog-post-us-citizenship-and-immigration-services-will-grant-adjustment-of-status-only-in-extraordinary-circumstances":3},{"post":4,"related":26},{"id":5,"slug":6,"title":7,"subtitle":8,"excerpt":9,"summary":9,"body":10,"language":11,"status":12,"publishedAt":13,"tags":14,"categoryId":15,"categorySlug":16,"categoryName":17,"coverImageId":8,"coverImageUrl":8,"thumbnailUrl":18,"authorUserId":19,"authorName":20,"viewCount":21,"readingMinutes":8,"isAiGenerated":22,"aiPrompt":8,"seoTitle":8,"seoDescription":8,"seoKeywords":8,"legacyBlogId":23,"createdAt":24,"updatedAt":25,"deletedAt":8},"8e32b7f0-a74e-440b-b7bb-678bae685c83","us-citizenship-and-immigration-services-will-grant-adjustment-of-status-only-in-extraordinary-circumstances","U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Will Grant ‘Adjustment of Status’ Only in Extraordinary Circumstances",null,"On May 21, USCIS announced a new policy memorandum","\u003Cp>On May 21, USCIS announced a new policy memorandum with the title of “\u003Cstrong>U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Will Grant ‘Adjustment of Status’ Only in Extraordinary Circumstances\u003C\u002Fstrong>”. (https:\u002F\u002Fwww.uscis.gov\u002Fnewsroom\u002Fnews-releases\u002Fus-citizenship-and-immigration-services-will-grant-adjustment-of-status-only-in-extraordinary)\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\nSimply put, it is an official declaration in the form of a memorandum saying, “the USCIS will review I-485 applications much more strictly from now on.”\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cstrong>What does “Adjustment of Status” mean?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003Cbr \u002F>\nAn I-485 adjustment of status application is a very convenient system that allows people to apply for a green card while inside the United States. Instead of going to the U.S. embassy in the immigrants’ own countries to obtain an immigrant visa to the USA, this applies to people who entered the U.S. on work visas, student visas, or tourist visas and then apply for permanent residency without leaving the US territory.\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cstrong>Why is USCIS suddenly doing this?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003Cbr \u002F>\nThere are many people who assume that if they meet the eligibility requirements, they are automatically entitled to a green card, and who prepare and submit documents carelessly with a “take it or leave it” attitude. Many also think that simply entering the U.S. and filing for a green card is enough. Because USCIS keeps seeing these obvious patterns, they are now putting on the brakes.\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\nThis announcement reinforces that adjustment of status is not an “automatic privilege or right,” but rather an “exceptional convenience” granted by the US government. In other words, they are not saying “applications are prohibited.” They are saying, “Show us why you deserve the benefit of adjustment of status and why your case merits it.”\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cstrong>Matter of Blas\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003Cbr \u002F>\nIt states that “a foreign national bears the burden of proving why favorable discretion should be exercised in their favor.” If the applicant fails to meet this burden, USCIS may deny the adjustment of status application.\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\nThe key words here are “discretion” and “administrative grace.” This means that even if you are eligible and meet all requirements, the adjudication is the USCIS’ own discretion. Through this announcement, USCIS wanted to make clear that adjustment of status is not an inherent right, but a special benefit and extraordinary remedy granted by the government. Until now, even if someone entered the U.S. on a tourist visa and applied for a green card, approvals were relatively common. But now that could change.\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\nThe USCIS is saying that overstaying the authorized period of stay and then remaining in the U.S. to file for a green card can itself be viewed as a serious negative factor. People keep engaging in this behavior while also assuming they are “automatically” entitled to a green card, making it appear as though they are exploiting nonimmigrant visa status.\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cstrong>Are they really saying everyone should apply only through immigrant visas?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cem>Not necessarily.\u003C\u002Fem>\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\nWhether someone should apply through adjustment of status or an immigrant visa still depends on the individual case. This guidance is not a blanket ban saying, “If you entered on a nonimmigrant visa, you cannot apply for adjustment of status!”\u003Cbr \u002F>\nThe main point of this memorandum is to emphasize once again that approval of a green card is still within the discretion of the USCIS officer. Filing an adjustment of status application does not guarantee approval.\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\nIt serves as a reminder to immigration officers to review and consider all relevant evidence and determine whether the applicant truly deserves permanent residency.\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\nIt also reminds officers to determine comprehensively whether granting adjustment of status serves the national interest of the United States. When reviewing adjustment of status applications, both positive and negative factors must be considered, and applicants must prove that the positive factors outweigh the negative ones.\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cstrong>Three key points of the memorandum\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003Cbr \u002F>\nFirst, if you entered the United States on a nonimmigrant visa, the principle is that you should leave the U.S. once your authorized stay ends. Whether for tourism or study, once the purpose is fulfilled, you are expected to depart. Applying for adjustment of status within the U.S. is considered an “exceptional accommodation.”\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\nSecond, overstaying itself is a significant disqualifying factor.\u003Cbr \u002F>\nIn the past, even if someone overstayed, approval was often granted as long as there were no other major issues. But now USCIS officers have been clearly given the “weapon” of discretion to deny cases.\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\nThird, the applicant must prove exceptional circumstances.\u003Cbr \u002F>\nThe applicant must demonstrate why they should receive a green card through adjustment of status within the U.S. instead of following the standard process of returning to their own countries and obtaining an immigrant visa there.\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cstrong>Who is being targeted?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003Cbr \u002F>\nIn reality, the people at greatest risk are fairly specific. Those who entered under the Visa Waiver Program or on tourist visas may become targets for closer scrutiny if it appears they intended to circumvent the normal immigration process.\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\nEven if someone is legally eligible, if it appears they entered the U.S. with the original intention of obtaining a green card, the officer can deny the case using discretionary authority.\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\nPlease note that there were already many such denial cases even before this guidance came out. \u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\t\u003Cli>Someone who entered the U.S. on an F-1 student visa, but they barely studied, or\u003C\u002Fli>\n\t\u003Cli>someone who entered on a B-1 visa supposedly for business purposes, but there wasn’t even a legitimate company involved, or many other cases who have not continued with their original intent to staying the in the US\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cstrong>Relatively safer cases\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003Cbr \u002F>\nAs explicitly stated in this guidance, there are also people who are relatively safer.\u003Cbr \u002F>\nThese are individuals who entered on visas that recognize dual intent, such as H-1B or L-1 visas.\u003Cbr \u002F>\nThese visas already acknowledge from the beginning that, “Sure, while working in the U.S., you may eventually obtain a green card and stay permanently.” That is why they were categorized as explicit exceptions in this guidance.\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cstrong>Will this really be enforced as written?\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003Cbr \u002F>\nIn reality, lawsuits from immigration advocacy groups are expected.\u003Cbr \u002F>\nEspecially for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, the rules established by Congress have not changed.\u003Cbr \u002F>\nThis memorandum could be viewed as an attempt to undermine the foundation of long-standing immigration law. So this issue will need to be monitored closely going forward.\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cstrong>Conclusion\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003Cbr \u002F>\nUltimately, what we must remember is that immigration law itself has not changed.\u003Cbr \u002F>\nThey are not saying, “From now on, only apply through immigrant visas!” or “You cannot apply for adjustment of status anymore!”\u003Cbr \u002F>\nHowever, what has changed is that even if you submit the same documents as before, the outcome may now be different. Cases that might previously have been approved despite weaknesses may now face unfavorable outcomes. That is why thorough preparation is more important than ever.\u003Cbr \u002F>\nIn conclusion, this administrative action is Nothing new, Nothing immediate, but surely it means that the USCIS will exercise Microscopic Adjudication.\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\n*** Kennedy Access Group is not an attorney licensed to practice law and may not give legal advice or accept fees for legal advice.***\u003Cbr \u002F>\n*** \u003Cstrong data-complete=\"true\" data-copy-service-computed-style=\"font-family: "Google Sans", Roboto, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0px; text-decoration: none; border-bottom: 0px rgb(10, 10, 10);\" data-sfc-cb=\"\" data-sfc-root=\"c\" jsaction=\"\" jscontroller=\"zYmgkd\" jsuid=\"pARmIc_1a\">Disclaimer:\u003C!--TgQPHd|[]-->\u003C\u002Fstrong> The information provided on this blog is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is \u003Cstrong data-complete=\"true\" data-copy-service-computed-style=\"font-family: "Google Sans", Roboto, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0px; text-decoration: none; border-bottom: 0px rgb(10, 10, 10);\" data-sfc-cb=\"\" data-sfc-root=\"c\" jsaction=\"\" jscontroller=\"zYmgkd\" jsuid=\"pARmIc_1b\">not intended to constitute legal advice\u003C!--TgQPHd|[]-->\u003C\u002Fstrong> and should not be relied upon as such. Reading this post does not create an attorney-client relationship. If you need legal advice, please consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction."***\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp align=\"center\" style=\"text-align:center; margin-bottom:11px\"> \u003C\u002Fp>\n","en","published","2026-01-01T00:00:00.000Z",[],"5765734f-a387-4f4f-a0ed-880cb9e2addb","immigration-guide","Immigration Guide","\u002Fapi\u002Fblog\u002Fimage\u002F100","e33558e3-ba49-473d-91c3-77f808a66a7c","joe@steadyworkers.com",29,false,4,"2026-05-28T22:57:13.000Z","2026-05-28T23:45:44.000Z",[27,39,52],{"id":28,"slug":29,"title":30,"subtitle":8,"excerpt":31,"summary":31,"body":32,"language":11,"status":12,"publishedAt":13,"tags":33,"categoryId":15,"categorySlug":16,"categoryName":17,"coverImageId":8,"coverImageUrl":8,"thumbnailUrl":34,"authorUserId":19,"authorName":35,"viewCount":36,"readingMinutes":8,"isAiGenerated":22,"aiPrompt":8,"seoTitle":8,"seoDescription":8,"seoKeywords":8,"legacyBlogId":37,"createdAt":38,"updatedAt":38,"deletedAt":8},"22747aa9-e2cf-476e-8c98-3fc4a0757af5","premium-processing-frequently-leads-to-nonsensical-requests-for-evidence-rfes","PREMIUM PROCESSING FREQUENTLY LEADS TO NONSENSICAL REQUESTS FOR EVIDENCE (RFES)","USCIS premium processing is driving a surge in boilerplate RFEs for employment-based petitions. How employers and EB-3 applicants can build stronger cases.","\u003Cp style=\"margin-bottom:11px\">\u003Cspan style=\"font-size:12pt\">\u003Cspan style=\"line-height:115%\">\u003Cspan style=\"font-family:Aptos,sans-serif\">\u003Cb>\u003Cspan lang=\"EN\" style=\"text-transform:uppercase\">Premium Processing frequently leads to nonsensical Requests for Evidence (RFEs)\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fb>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp style=\"margin-bottom:11px\">\u003Cspan style=\"font-size:12pt\">\u003Cspan style=\"line-height:115%\">\u003Cspan style=\"font-family:Aptos,sans-serif\">Recently, USCIS has been arbitrarily applying stringent, non-regulatory criteria when adjudicating Employment-based immigration petitions, leading to a sharp rise in Requests for Evidence (RFEs) and denial rates.  However, federal courts have recently begun to curb this trend of adjudication that exceeds statutory authority, thereby paving the way for future legal challenges.\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp style=\"margin-bottom:11px\">\u003Cimg ng-click=\"previewImage(blog.thumbnailUrl)\" ng-if=\"blog.thumbnailUrl\" ng-src=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fblog\u002Fimage\u002F138\" src=\"http:\u002F\u002Fkennedyaccess.com:9090\u002Fapi\u002Fblog\u002Fimage\u002F138\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp style=\"margin-bottom:11px\">\u003Cspan style=\"font-size:12pt\">\u003Cspan style=\"line-height:115%\">\u003Cspan style=\"font-family:Aptos,sans-serif\">\u003Cb>\u003Cspan lang=\"EN\" style=\"text-transform:uppercase\">Overall Adjudication Climate: A Surge in RFEs and Rejection Rates\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fb>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp style=\"margin-bottom:11px\">\u003Cspan style=\"font-size:12pt\">\u003Cspan style=\"line-height:115%\">\u003Cspan style=\"font-family:Aptos,sans-serif\">The most prominent characteristics of current U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) operations are the "arbitrary raising of standards" and "mass rejections."\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp style=\"margin-bottom:11px\">\u003Cspan style=\"font-size:12pt\">\u003Cspan style=\"line-height:115%\">\u003Cspan style=\"font-family:Aptos,sans-serif\">By early 2026, Requests for Evidence (RFEs) were being issued for approximately half (50%) of standard processing cases.\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp style=\"margin-bottom:11px\">\u003Cspan style=\"font-size:12pt\">\u003Cspan style=\"line-height:115%\">\u003Cspan style=\"font-family:Aptos,sans-serif\">The Pitfall of Premium Processing: With Premium Processing which guarantees a decision within 15 to 45 days, there is an increasing tendency for USCIS officers to issue "substandard, boilerplate RFEs" just before the deadline without properly reviewing the documentation, simply to meet the mandated processing timeframe.\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp style=\"margin-bottom:11px\"> \u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp style=\"margin-bottom:11px\">\u003Cspan style=\"font-size:12pt\">\u003Cspan style=\"line-height:115%\">\u003Cspan style=\"font-family:Aptos,sans-serif\">\u003Cb>\u003Cspan lang=\"EN\" style=\"text-transform:uppercase\">Practical Tips for Applicants and Employers\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fb>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp style=\"margin-bottom:11px\">\u003Cspan style=\"font-size:12pt\">\u003Cspan style=\"line-height:115%\">\u003Cspan style=\"font-family:Aptos,sans-serif\">While the current landscape for U.S. employment-based immigration is undeniably more challenging than ever, success remains achievable. To navigate the rise in adjudication errors by USCIS, the following strategies are essential when preparing a petition:\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp style=\"margin-bottom:11px\">\u003Cspan style=\"font-size:12pt\">\u003Cspan style=\"line-height:115%\">\u003Cspan style=\"font-family:Aptos,sans-serif\">\u003Cb>Building a "Plenary Record"\u003C\u002Fb>: From the initial filing, you must meticulously align every piece of evidence with the relevant legal requirements to leave no room for USCIS adjudicators to merely skim the file or nitpick.\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp style=\"margin-bottom:11px\">\u003Cspan style=\"font-size:12pt\">\u003Cspan style=\"line-height:115%\">\u003Cspan style=\"font-family:Aptos,sans-serif\">\u003Cb>Anticipating and Countering Arbitrary Requirements:\u003C\u002Fb> Be aware of "arbitrary conditions" frequently demanded by adjudicators (such as requiring a business plan or insisting that recommendation letters specify exact work dates). It is prudent to preemptively address and refute these demands by citing the legal basis within the petition letter itself.\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fspan>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp style=\"margin-bottom:11px\"> \u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp style=\"margin-bottom:11px\">*** Kennedy Access Group is not an attorney licensed to practice law and may not give legal advice or accept fees for legal advice.***\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\n*** \u003Cb>Disclaimer:\u003C\u002Fb> The information provided on this blog is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is \u003Cb>not intended to constitute legal advice\u003C\u002Fb> and should not be relied upon as such. Reading this post does not create an attorney-client relationship. If you need legal advice, please consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction."***\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp style=\"margin-bottom:11px\"> \u003C\u002Fp>\n",[],"\u002Fapi\u002Fblog\u002Fimage\u002F138","undefined undefined",26,11,"2026-06-16T21:07:20.000Z",{"id":40,"slug":41,"title":42,"subtitle":8,"excerpt":43,"summary":43,"body":44,"language":11,"status":12,"publishedAt":13,"tags":45,"categoryId":15,"categorySlug":16,"categoryName":17,"coverImageId":8,"coverImageUrl":8,"thumbnailUrl":46,"authorUserId":19,"authorName":47,"viewCount":48,"readingMinutes":8,"isAiGenerated":22,"aiPrompt":8,"seoTitle":8,"seoDescription":8,"seoKeywords":8,"legacyBlogId":49,"createdAt":50,"updatedAt":51,"deletedAt":8},"6b842bed-05f7-4bc9-aa72-fa9fe71d90ad","what-happened-to-the-100000-h-1b-visa-fee-and-the-legal-rebuke-that-followed","What happened to the $100,000 H-1B visa fee and the legal rebuke that followed","A federal judge voided the $100,000 H-1B visa fee, ruling it violated the Administrative Procedure Act. What it means amid conflicting court decisions.","\u003Cp>\u003Cb>What happened to the $100,000 H-1B visa fee and the legal rebuke that followed\u003C\u002Fb>\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\nIn September 2025, US government raised the fee for H-1B work visas to $100,000, saying it would protect American workers from losing their jobs to lower-paid foreign workers on this temporary work visa. The previous application fee was $215 to enter the visa lottery, plus additional processing charges. The higher fee became effective around 24 hours after the announcement.\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cb>What happened in court Monday?\u003C\u002Fb>\u003Cbr \u002F>\nU.S. District Court Judge Leo Sorokin in Boston ruled that the fee violated the Administrative Procedure Act, which governs how federal agencies develop and issue regulations. The ruling voided “in its entirety” a policy from September requiring companies to pay $100,000 fees for H-1B visa petitions. “The Court finds that the Policy imposes a tax on H-1B petitions without the requisite delegation by Congress,” Sorokin wrote.\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cimg ng-click=\"previewImage(blog.thumbnailUrl)\" ng-if=\"blog.thumbnailUrl\" ng-src=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fblog\u002Fimage\u002F128\" src=\"http:\u002F\u002Fkennedyaccess.com:9090\u002Fapi\u002Fblog\u002Fimage\u002F128\" \u002F>\u003Cbr \u002F>\nHis ruling contradicted an earlier federal court ruling — in a separate legal challenge to the H-1B fee brought by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce — that upheld the charge and kept it in effect until it is scheduled to expire in September.\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\nYet another lawsuit has also been filed in federal court in San Francisco by religious groups and labor organizations, setting up the possibility of divided rulings in three appellate court circuits.\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\nThe ruling on Monday came just days after another federal judge similarly voided a policy in which the administration had directed U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to freeze applications for work permits and other immigration benefits.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp> \u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>*** Kennedy Access Group is not an attorney licensed to practice law and may not give legal advice or accept fees for legal advice.***\u003Cbr \u002F>\n*** \u003Cstrong data-complete=\"true\" data-copy-service-computed-style=\"font-family: "Google Sans", Roboto, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0px; text-decoration: none; border-bottom: 0px rgb(10, 10, 10);\" data-sfc-cb=\"\" data-sfc-root=\"c\" jsaction=\"\" jscontroller=\"zYmgkd\" jsuid=\"pARmIc_1a\">Disclaimer:\u003C!--TgQPHd|[]-->\u003C\u002Fstrong> The information provided on this blog is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is \u003Cstrong data-complete=\"true\" data-copy-service-computed-style=\"font-family: "Google Sans", Roboto, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0px; text-decoration: none; border-bottom: 0px rgb(10, 10, 10);\" data-sfc-cb=\"\" data-sfc-root=\"c\" jsaction=\"\" jscontroller=\"zYmgkd\" jsuid=\"pARmIc_1b\">not intended to constitute legal advice\u003C!--TgQPHd|[]-->\u003C\u002Fstrong> and should not be relied upon as such. Reading this post does not create an attorney-client relationship. If you need legal advice, please consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction."***\u003C\u002Fp>\n",[],"\u002Fapi\u002Fblog\u002Fimage\u002F128","contact@steadyworkers.com",30,7,"2026-06-11T20:15:21.000Z","2026-06-11T20:18:28.000Z",{"id":53,"slug":54,"title":55,"subtitle":8,"excerpt":56,"summary":56,"body":57,"language":11,"status":12,"publishedAt":13,"tags":58,"categoryId":15,"categorySlug":16,"categoryName":17,"coverImageId":8,"coverImageUrl":8,"thumbnailUrl":59,"authorUserId":60,"authorName":61,"viewCount":36,"readingMinutes":8,"isAiGenerated":62,"aiPrompt":8,"seoTitle":8,"seoDescription":8,"seoKeywords":8,"legacyBlogId":63,"createdAt":64,"updatedAt":65,"deletedAt":8},"ceaccad5-7328-4864-9a76-ea0b2fb652ab","2026-us-immigration-money-transfer-regulations-new-remittance-tax-and-compliance-requirements","2026 U.S. Immigration Money Transfer Regulations: New Remittance Tax and Compliance Requirements","Starting January 1, 2026, the U.S. implemented a 1% excise tax on cash-funded remittance transfers under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This affects millions sending money abroad, with specific rules for cash payments while exempting bank transfers. Learn the procedures, limits, and compliance requirements for international money transfers in 2026.","\u003Ch1>2026 U.S. Immigration Money Transfer Regulations: New Remittance Tax and Compliance Requirements\u003C\u002Fh1>\n\n\u003Cdiv style=\"background:#f0f8ff;border-left:4px solid #1a3a5c;padding:16px 20px;border-radius:6px;margin:20px 0;\">\n\u003Ch3>Key Takeaways\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\t\u003Cli>A 1% excise tax applies to cash-funded remittance transfers to foreign recipients starting January 1, 2026\u003C\u002Fli>\n\t\u003Cli>Bank account transfers, credit\u002Fdebit card payments, and cryptocurrencies are exempt from the tax\u003C\u002Fli>\n\t\u003Cli>The tax is projected to generate $10 billion in revenue over 10 years\u003C\u002Fli>\n\t\u003Cli>Penalty relief is available for providers through the third quarter of 2026\u003C\u002Fli>\n\t\u003Cli>USCIS immigration fees have increased for 2026 with stricter payment requirements\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003C\u002Fdiv>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cimg alt=\"Blog image\" src=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fblog\u002Fimage\u002F110\" style=\"border-radius:8px;margin:16px 0;float:right;margin:0 0 16px 20px;width:45%;\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Understanding the New Remittance Transfer Tax\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Ccite index=\"7-8,7-9\">Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, a 1% remittance transfer tax applies to remittances sent from the United States to recipients in foreign countries when the sender provides cash, a money order, a cashier's check, or other similar physical instrument to the remittance transfer provider. The sender is liable for the tax, and remittance transfer providers are required to collect the remittance transfer tax from certain senders, make semimonthly deposits, and file quarterly returns with the IRS.\u003C\u002Fcite>\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cbr \u002F>\n\u003Cem>NOTE. \u003Cstrong data-copy-service-computed-style=\"font-family: "Google Sans", Roboto, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0px; text-decoration: none; border-bottom: 0px rgb(10, 10, 10);\" data-sfc-cb=\"\" data-sfc-root=\"c\" jsaction=\"\" jscontroller=\"zYmgkd#vvzi1e\" jsuid=\"fVrNbe_v\">The 1% Tax Rule:\u003C!--TgQPHd|[]-->\u003C\u002Fstrong> A 1% excise tax is applied to the amount transferred \u003Cstrong>FROM the US TO foreign accounts\u003C\u002Fstrong>. If you send $500 using cash, an extra $5 tax applies.\u003C\u002Fem>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp> \u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>What Qualifies for the Tax\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Ccite index=\"3-10\">It covers remittance transfers funded by cash, money orders, cashier's checks, traveler's checks, or similar physical instruments issued by foreign governments.\u003C\u002Fcite> The tax is calculated at exactly 1% of the total transfer amount, with no minimum threshold or caps.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Ccite index=\"3-28,3-29,3-30\">The tax on remittance transfers equals 1% of the total amount the sender provides. That amount includes promotional bonuses tied to the transfer. It does not include service fees or state taxes.\u003C\u002Fcite>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cimg alt=\"Blog image\" src=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fblog\u002Fimage\u002F115\" style=\"border-radius:8px;margin:16px 0;width:100%;\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch2>Exempt Transfer Methods\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>Understanding which transfer methods avoid the 1% tax is crucial for cost-effective money transfers. \u003Ccite index=\"2-35,2-43\">Direct bank-to-bank transfer – no. Avoid the 1% remittance tax entirely by switching from cash funding to bank account transfers or US debit\u002Fcredit card payments.\u003C\u002Fcite>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Recommended Transfer Methods\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\t\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Bank Account Transfers:\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003Ccite index=\"2-44\">For regular remittances, open a US bank account if you don't have one, and use ACH transfers or money transfer apps that accept account funding like Wise, Remitly, or Xoom.\u003C\u002Fcite>\u003C\u002Fli>\n\t\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Credit\u002FDebit Cards:\u003C\u002Fstrong> U.S.-issued cards are exempt from the tax\u003C\u002Fli>\n\t\u003Cli>\u003Cstrong>Digital Assets:\u003C\u002Fstrong> \u003Ccite index=\"2-37\">Cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, Ethereum, and stablecoins are not classified as "physical instruments" under IRC 4475(c) and are therefore exempt.\u003C\u002Fcite>\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Ccite index=\"2-46,2-47\">Wise – Accepts bank account and debit card funding, offers competitive FX rates, and includes a multi-currency account option. Completely exempt from the 1% tax, with fees typically running 0.4–1% of the transfer amount.\u003C\u002Fcite>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Chr \u002F>\n\u003Ch2>Tax Collection and Reporting Requirements\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cimg alt=\"Blog image\" src=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fblog\u002Fimage\u002F106\" style=\"border-radius:8px;margin:16px 0;float:left;margin:0 20px 16px 0;width:45%;\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Ccite index=\"3-32,3-33\">Senders owe the tax, but remittance transfer providers collect it at the point of sale. Providers must report it quarterly on Form 720 and make semi-monthly deposits even though the return is filed every quarter.\u003C\u002Fcite>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Ccite index=\"7-1,7-2\">Remittance transfer providers report the new remittance transfer tax on Form 720, Quarterly Federal Excise Tax Return PDF, with the first semimonthly deposits due Jan. 29, 2026. In October 2025, the IRS issued Notice 2025-55 PDF providing limited penalty relief for remittance transfer providers who fail to deposit the correct amount of the remittance transfer tax as required during the first three quarters of 2026.\u003C\u002Fcite>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Revenue Projections and Market Impact\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Ccite index=\"2-10,3-13\">The Joint Tax Committee estimates the tax will generate approximately $10 billion in federal revenue over 10 years – representing a small fraction of total U.S. outbound remittance flows, which exceed $100 billion annually. The Joint Committee on Taxation projects the tax will raise $10 billion over 10 years from annual flows of about $100B+.\u003C\u002Fcite>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Ccite index=\"5-22\">Applying these shares to the average 2019-2024 annual remittance transfer volume of $520 billion results in annual cash remittance transfers totaling about $156 billion to $187 billion.\u003C\u002Fcite>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Chr \u002F>\n\u003Ch2>2026 USCIS Fee Updates and Processing Changes\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>Beyond the remittance tax, U.S. immigration applicants face additional changes in 2026. \u003Ccite index=\"13-1,13-7\">USCIS will require the filing fees for FY 2026 established in this notice for any immigration benefit requests postmarked on or after January 1, 2026. Any immigration benefit request postmarked on or after January 1, 2026 without the proper filing fee will be rejected.\u003C\u002Fcite>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Premium Processing Fee Increases\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Ccite index=\"12-3,12-4\">This rule is effective on March 1, 2026. If you submit a request for premium processing postmarked on or after March 1, 2026, you must include the new fee for the specific benefit you are requesting.\u003C\u002Fcite>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>Key premium processing fee changes effective March 1, 2026:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\t\u003Cli>\u003Ccite index=\"19-11\">Form I-140 employment-based immigrant petitions will increase from $2,805 to $2,965.\u003C\u002Fcite>\u003C\u002Fli>\n\t\u003Cli>\u003Ccite index=\"19-12\">Form I-539 applications to extend or change nonimmigrant status for F, J, and M categories will increase from $1,965 to $2,075.\u003C\u002Fcite>\u003C\u002Fli>\n\t\u003Cli>\u003Ccite index=\"19-13\">Form I-765 applications for employment authorization in OPT and STEM OPT categories will increase from $1,685 to $1,780.\u003C\u002Fcite>\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Cimg alt=\"Blog image\" src=\"\u002Fapi\u002Fblog\u002Fimage\u002F114\" style=\"border-radius:8px;margin:16px 0;width:100%;\" \u002F>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Ch3>Processing Time Challenges\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Ccite index=\"14-1,14-6,14-7\">Although USCIS currently lists an average processing time of approximately 4.5 months for change-of-status petitions, actual adjudications are taking 8 months or longer. Although USCIS currently lists an average processing time of approximately 4.5 months for change-of-status petitions, actual adjudications are taking 8 months or longer. By contrast, petitions filed under Premium Processing must be adjudicated by USCIS within 15 business days.\u003C\u002Fcite>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp>\u003Ccite index=\"15-8,15-9\">As of early 2026, USCIS is managing a record backlog of over 11 million pending cases. The current administration has indefinitely paused naturalization interviews and oath ceremonies for nationals from 39 designated countries.\u003C\u002Fcite>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Chr \u002F>\n\u003Ch2>Compliance Best Practices\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cp>To navigate the new regulations successfully, immigrants and their families should follow these guidelines:\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cblockquote>"\u003Ccite index=\"1-14\">Senders are advised to use regulated banking channels and keep detailed documentation of their funds' lawful origins to navigate these changes smoothly.\u003C\u002Fcite>"\u003C\u002Fblockquote>\n\n\u003Ch3>For Money Transfers:\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\t\u003Cli>Switch to bank account or card-funded transfers to avoid the 1% tax\u003C\u002Fli>\n\t\u003Cli>Keep detailed records of all international transfers\u003C\u002Fli>\n\t\u003Cli>Use reputable providers like banks or regulated money transfer services\u003C\u002Fli>\n\t\u003Cli>Verify funding methods before initiating transfers\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\u003Ch3>For USCIS Applications:\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cul>\n\t\u003Cli>\u003Ccite index=\"18-8\">Applicants should verify fees via USCIS's fee calculator and consider filing before the deadline to avoid higher costs.\u003C\u002Fcite>\u003C\u002Fli>\n\t\u003Cli>Use current forms and correct fees to avoid rejections\u003C\u002Fli>\n\t\u003Cli>Consider premium processing for time-sensitive cases\u003C\u002Fli>\n\t\u003Cli>Maintain compliance with all documentation requirements\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\n\u003Chr \u002F>\n\u003Ch2>Sources\u003C\u002Fh2>\n\n\u003Cdiv style=\"background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e9ecef;padding:16px;border-radius:6px;margin:20px 0;\">\n\u003Cul style=\"list-style-type:none;padding:0;margin:0;\">\n\t\u003Cli>• \u003Ca target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.irs.gov\u002Fnewsroom\u002Ftreasury-irs-issue-proposed-regulations-on-the-new-remittance-transfer-tax-established-under-the-one-big-beautiful-bill\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\">IRS Official Announcement on Remittance Transfer Tax\u003C\u002Fa>\u003C\u002Fli>\n\t\u003Cli>• \u003Ca target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.federalregister.gov\u002Fdocuments\u002F2026\u002F04\u002F13\u002F2026-07085\u002Fexcise-tax-on-remittance-transfers\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Federal Register: Excise Tax on Remittance Transfers\u003C\u002Fa>\u003C\u002Fli>\n\t\u003Cli>• \u003Ca target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.uscis.gov\u002Fg-1055\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\">USCIS Fee Schedule\u003C\u002Fa>\u003C\u002Fli>\n\t\u003Cli>• \u003Ca target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.uscis.gov\u002Fnewsroom\u002Falerts\u002Fuscis-to-increase-premium-processing-fees\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\">USCIS Premium Processing Fee Increases\u003C\u002Fa>\u003C\u002Fli>\n\t\u003Cli>• \u003Ca target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\u002F\u002Fwww.taxesforexpats.com\u002Farticles\u002Fexpat-tax-rules\u002Fremittance-tax.html\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\">US Remittance Tax Complete Guide\u003C\u002Fa>\u003C\u002Fli>\n\u003C\u002Ful>\n\u003C\u002Fdiv>\n\n\u003Cdiv style=\"background:#1a3a5c;color:#fff;padding:24px;border-radius:8px;text-align:center;margin-top:30px;\">\n\u003Ch3 style=\"color:#fff;margin-bottom:16px;\">Need Expert Immigration Guidance?\u003C\u002Fh3>\n\n\u003Cp style=\"margin-bottom:20px;\">Kennedy Access Group specializes in EB-3 visa sponsorship and employment-based immigration services. Our experienced team helps you navigate complex immigration regulations, including the latest fee changes and compliance requirements.\u003C\u002Fp>\n\n\u003Cp style=\"margin-bottom:0;\">\u003Cstrong>Contact Kennedy Access Group today for personalized consultation on your U.S. immigration journey.\u003C\u002Fstrong>\u003C\u002Fp>\n\u003C\u002Fdiv>\n",[],"\u002Fapi\u002Fblog\u002Fimage\u002F121","e0cd7bc0-1996-444a-acb5-4e09d6c1a97b","info@kennedyaccess.com",true,6,"2026-06-02T23:17:20.000Z","2026-06-09T21:14:57.000Z"]