USCIS Transitions to Electronic Payments

Starting October 28, 2025, the USCIS transitions to electronic payments. Applicants will need to use one of two electronic options instead: ACH debit (Form G-1650) or credit/debit card (Form G-1450).

This change is due, in part, because over 90% of their payments currently come from checks and money orders, which leads to processing delays and increases the risk of fraud, lost payments, and theft. By switching to electronic payments, the agency hopes to speed up processing times, improve security, and reduce the administrative burden of paper handling. Additionally, this modernization effort aligns with Executive Order 14247, whose aim is to bring federal payment systems into the digital age.

Here is a list of things to remember about this transition to electronic payments:

• All payments must originate from a US-based bank account
• All payments must be made in US currency
• If your ACH transaction or credit/debit card payment is denied, USCIS may reject your application
• Be diligent in how you complete Form G-1450 or G-1650, as even a small mistake can lead to a rejected filing

FAQs – USCIS Transitions to Electronic Payments

This FAQ will provide additional guidance. If you have any other questions, please get in touch with your trusted immigration attorney at Gunn-Menefee.

**What is Form G-1650?**

Form G-1650, Authorization for ACH Transactions, allows you to authorize USCIS to withdraw filing fees directly from your US bank account through an ACH (Automated Clearing House) debit.

**What do I need to complete Form G-1650?**

You’ll need a valid US checking or savings account. The form requires your bank’s routing number, your account number, the account type (checking or savings), whether it’s a personal or business account, the correct payment amount, and your signature as the account holder.

**How do I submit Form G-1650?**

Download the latest version of Form G-1650 from the USCIS website, fill it out completely, and place it on top of your application package when you mail it in.

**What happens if I make a mistake on the form?**

USCIS may reject your entire application if any details are missing or incorrect, such as an invalid routing number, a missing account type, a wrong payment amount, or an unsigned form. Double-check everything before submitting.

**Do I need to contact my bank before using Form G-1650?**

Yes, it’s highly recommended. Some banks have ACH debit blocks or filters that automatically prevent withdrawals. Contact your bank and ask if you need to whitelist USCIS (Originating ID: 1134690138) to allow the payment to go through.

**What if my payment is declined?**

If your ACH payment is declined due to insufficient funds, USCIS will reprocess it once. If it’s declined a second time, USCIS may reject your application. If the payment is returned for any other reason (closed account, incorrect information, ACH block), USCIS will reject the filing immediately.

**Can I split my payment between ACH and credit card?**

No. You cannot split the fee payment between Form G-1650 (ACH) and Form G-1450 (credit card). Choose one payment method only.

**What if I don’t have a US bank account?**

If you don’t have a US bank account, you can use Form G-1450 with a credit card, debit card, or prepaid card instead. You can also authorize a trusted third party—such as a sponsor, employer, or attorney—to submit payment on your behalf using their US account.

Summary

The USCIS is transitioning to electronic payments in an effort to reduce fraud and processing time. You must be prepared for this change, and we’ve outlined the basic steps you’ll need to follow. Gunn-Meneffee is here to answer any questions you may have about your visa processing fees.