Big changes are coming May 29, 2026. Every asylum seeker and immigration applicant needs to know this. USCIS will reject any Form I-102 without the proper filing fee if it’s postmarked on or after May 29, 2026. They’ll also reject pending Form I-589 asylum applications for people who don’t pay the AAF starting May 29, 2026. Already in the asylum process? Planning to apply for immigration benefits? You need to act now.
What’s Behind These New DHS Rules
DHS just announced new immigration fees and requirements from the H.R. 1 Reconciliation Act of 2025 (One Big Beautiful Bill Act). H.R. 1 created these fees to boost funding for immigration enforcement and make immigrants pay for immigration services.
Here’s what you’re dealing with:
- Enhanced Security Screening: Effective April 27, 2026, USCIS will begin receiving enhanced criminal history record information (CHRI) for all fingerprint-based background checks submitted to the FBI’s Next Generation Identification system. USCIS said the agency “has implemented new security checks to strengthen the vetting and screening of applicants through expanded access to federal criminal databases.”
- Annual Asylum Fee (AAF): Every person with a pending Form I-589 must pay an Annual Asylum Fee of $102 per calendar year that the application remains pending. The first payment is due one year after the I-589 was filed, and there is no fee waiver for most applicants.
How This Affects Asylum Seekers and Immigration Applicants
These changes create immediate compliance obligations with serious consequences for non-compliance:
For Current Asylum Applicants:
- If an alien does not pay the AAF within 30 days of notification, USCIS will reject their pending asylum application. If an alien does not have legal status in the U.S., USCIS will also initiate the alien’s removal.
- USCIS will deny any pending Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, based on the asylum application; and aliens who were approved to work based on the pending application will lose work authorization immediately.
- There is no automatic second notice, no built-in grace period, and for most applicants no fee waiver. The 30-day clock starts when USCIS sends the notice, not when the applicant opens the envelope, which makes a current address on file with USCIS critical.
For Other Immigration Applicants:
- The enhanced checks will affect pending applications for which immigrants submit fingerprints, like applications for permanent US residency or green cards and naturalisation. USCIS officers were directed to resubmit fingerprints for pending cases if the FBI information for those cases was received prior to April 27.
- USCIS said that “any delay in decision issuance should be brief and resolved shortly.”
What You Should Do Now
With the May 29, 2026 deadline approaching, immediate action is essential:
Immediate Steps for Asylum Applicants:
- Update Your Address: If you have moved since filing, update your address using Form AR-11 immediately and confirm the change in your USCIS online account.
- Prepare for Fee Payments: The Annual Asylum Fee is a small dollar amount per year, but the consequences of missing it are very serious. If you have a pending Form I-589, the time to plan is now, before the rule takes effect on May 29, 2026.
- Monitor for USCIS Notifications: Watch for AAF payment notices and be prepared to pay within the 30-day window
- Review Work Authorization Status: Ensure your EAD renewal timing aligns with AAF compliance
For All Immigration Applicants:
- Expect Processing Delays: Enhanced background checks may cause temporary delays in case processing
- Ensure Complete Documentation: Any incomplete applications face higher scrutiny under the new measures
- Plan for Additional Fees: The rule establishes a minimum $24 fee to file Form I-102, in addition to other required fees.
Why Choose Tez Law P.C.
Navigating these complex new immigration requirements demands experienced legal representation. Tez Law P.C., led by managing attorney JJ Zhang (California Bar #326666), provides comprehensive immigration services to clients across the entire United States.
Our immigration law practice offers:
- Nationwide Representation: We handle immigration cases throughout all 50 states
- Compliance Expertise: Stay current with rapidly changing immigration regulations and enforcement measures
- Comprehensive Case Management: From initial applications through appeals and renewals
- Multilingual Support: Serving diverse immigrant communities in West Covina and nationwide
Whether you need assistance with asylum applications, work authorization renewals, or navigating the new enhanced screening requirements, our experienced team ensures your case receives the attention it deserves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I miss the Annual Asylum Fee payment deadline?
Missing the AAF payment within 30 days of notification will result in USCIS rejecting your pending asylum application. If you have no other legal status, removal proceedings may be initiated. Any associated work authorization will also be denied or revoked immediately.
How much is the Annual Asylum Fee for 2026?
The Annual Asylum Fee is $102 for fiscal year 2026. This fee must be paid each calendar year that your asylum application remains pending, starting one year after your initial Form I-589 filing.
Will the new enhanced background checks delay my immigration case?
USCIS has implemented enhanced criminal history record checks through the FBI’s Next Generation Identification system. While USCIS states delays should be brief, the expanded screening may cause some processing delays, particularly for cases requiring fingerprint resubmission.
Don’t let these critical immigration changes jeopardize your case. The experienced immigration attorneys at Tez Law P.C. are ready to help you navigate these new requirements and protect your immigration status. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and ensure compliance with all May 29, 2026 deadlines. Our comprehensive legal services also include personal injury attorney representation for clients who need additional legal support.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Contact Tez Law P.C. at 626-678-8677 or [email protected] for advice specific to your situation. Results may vary.