Important Update: Annual Asylum Fee Temporarily Paused

Federal court halts the annual asylum fee, for now.

“To pay or not to pay?” That’s the question many asylum seekers have been asking this past month. With immigration law constantly evolving, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and even a small misstep can have lasting consequences.

On October 30, 2025, a federal court issued a temporary pause on the Annual Asylum Fee (AAF). This means you do not need to pay the fee at this time, and any payments already made will not be refunded.

According to USCIS:

“In accordance with the Oct. 30, 2025, order, USCIS has paused the issuance of AAF notices. Any applicant who has received a notice from USCIS instructing him or her to pay the AAF may disregard that notice while the temporary stay is in place.”

The AAF was introduced in 2025 as a $100 annual fee for individuals whose asylum applications have been pending for more than one year. It marked a significant shift from the previously fee-free process and raised concerns about added financial strain on already vulnerable applicants.

This pause is temporary. If the court lifts the stay, you may be required to pay the $100 fee per family through your USCIS account. If you’ve already paid, that payment should count for this year. Be sure to save your receipt, whether it arrives by mail or in your USCIS account, for your records.

It’s also important to note: the fee does not apply to applications pending for less than one year.

At MCD Immigration Law, we’re here to help you navigate these changes with clarity and care. We’ll continue to keep you informed and stand by your side every step of the way.

📞 Questions? Visit www.SalemImmigration.com or call us at (978) 594-6919.