Apply Now For Immigration Benefits!

There are several reasons why some immigrants should apply now for certain immigration benefits. First, government fees will increase dramatically for most immigration applications post marked on or after 10/02/2020. For example, the current fee for applying for citizenship is $725 but it will increase to $1,170. Another example, the current fee for applying for a green card while in the US now costs $1,760 but will increase to $2,830 for many immigrants.

Second, In July,Trump's new public charge rule was stopped nationwide due to a court ruling. That new rule made it much harder for low income immigrants to get a green card. Unfortunately, as of last week, the new public charge rule can go into effect in every state except NY, VT and CT. It is not certain when immigration services will start implementing the rule. Trump is trying very hard to reinstate this new rule. Now is the time to apply before the rule goes back into effect!

Finally, some might be waiting and hoping that we have a new president. I agree that the situation will improve for immigrants if that were to occur. However, there is not guarantee that Trump will lose. Also, it will take time for a new president to undo all of Trump's policies. Additionally, some of the fee increases may stay in place no matter who is president. There is a very narrow window between now and 10/02/2020 to avoid the fee increases. There might also be a very narrow window to avoid the new public charge rule. Feel free to contact me to find out how you might be affected by these changes.