USCIS Huge Shift to Digital Payments: More Delays?

US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a major change in payment methods, set to take effect from October 28, 2025. The agency will phase out paper checks and money orders in favour of ACH debit and credit/debit card payments.

Transition to Digital Payments to Reduce Fraud and Delays

This move towards digital payments aims to reduce fraud and eliminate delays caused by lost mail. USCIS claims that most payments still come in the form of checks, and the paper-based system consumes valuable time and resources.

The Practicalities and Challenges for Applicants

For applicants with US bank accounts, the transition is straightforward. They can use Form G-1650 to make payments via ACH debit. However, for those without a US bank account, the options are more limited. They will need US-issued cards or must rely on online filing, where international cards may be accepted for certain forms. This could leave many international applicants seeking assistance from immigration attorneys.

Current Payment Methods Still Accepted Until October 28

The new forms, G-1650 and G-1450, are already available on the USCIS website, but checks will still be accepted until the end of October. While this change is being hailed as an overdue “modernization of fee payment methods,” some immigration attorneys remain doubtful.

Concerns About the Transition Timeline

Experts argue that with 90% of payments still coming through checks, the six-week deadline may not be enough for a smooth transition. Many applicants also express concerns about the USCIS website, which has been known to suffer from glitches, making them reluctant to switch from paper to digital payments.

Will USCIS Be Ready for the Shift?

As one X user ominously warned, “Get ready for a load of rejections because I guarantee that USCIS systems won’t be up and running/ready to handle this big transition. I file all my cases using checks because the G-1450 still gets rejected years after being put in play!!”

While adaptation has always been part of the immigration process, the authorities must ensure the shift to electronic payments does not inadvertently disadvantage those it is meant to benefit.