This week’s immigration updates include new USCIS form editions taking effect in September, updated public charge guidance, and a proposed increase to naturalization filing fees. Here’s a practical overview of what you should know. 👇

On September 15, 2026, USCIS will publish revised editions of Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, and Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. The new editions align with the recently finalized rule replacing Duration of Status with a fixed period of admission for F, J, and I nonimmigrants. There is no grace period. USCIS will reject older editions postmarked or submitted on or after September 15. Applicants should not file the new editions before that date.

On September 18, 2026, USCIS will publish a revised edition of Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. The form has been revised to align with the new Public Charge Ground of Inadmissibility Final Rule. There is no grace period. USCIS will reject the current 01/20/25 edition if postmarked or submitted on or after September 18. Applicants should not file the new edition before that date.

3️⃣ USCIS Issues Updated Public Charge Guidance 🏛️

USCIS issued updated Policy Manual guidance on August 18, 2026, explaining how officers will determine whether an adjustment of status applicant is likely to become a public charge. The guidance takes effect September 18, 2026, and applies to Forms I-485 postmarked or submitted on or after that date. Officers will assess each case based on the totality of the circumstances, with no single bright-line test. For means-tested public benefits received on or after September 18, 2026, USCIS will consider any and all benefits received. Refugees and asylees remain exempt from the public charge ground of inadmissibility.

4️⃣DHS Proposes Significant Increase to Naturalization Filing Fee 📄

DHS has proposed raising the fee for Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, from $760 to $1,330 for paper filings and from $710 to $1,280 for online filings. The proposed rule would also eliminate the reduced fee option for lower-income applicants and end fee waiver eligibility for both Form N-400 and Form N-336, the form used to appeal a denied naturalization application. Current and former U.S. armed forces service members would remain exempt. This is a proposed rule. Public comments are due by August 24, 2026.

Firm Updates 🎉

We are pleased to share two recent successes this week! Our firm obtained approval of a K-1 fiancé visa for a client's fiancé, allowing them to travel to the United States to marry.

We also obtained Employment Authorization Document (EAD) approval for another client, allowing them to work legally in the United States. We are proud to continue supporting our clients throughout their immigration journey.

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