DHS Forces Immigrants to Ditch Paper for E-Filing Forever
Published Date: 8/11/2026
Rule
Summary
This interim final rule (IFR) amends U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regulations to provide: USCIS may require mandatory electronic filing (e-filing) of certain benefit requests; the process USCIS will follow to require a benefit request to be e-filed; and how a waiver of the e-filing requirement for those individuals unable to file electronically may be requested. This rule is intended to increase digital intake and processing to move USCIS and requestors from a mostly paper process to an electronic process and further enhance the integrity of the immigration system and the security of the United States.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
USCIS can require e-filing after 180 days
USCIS may require mandatory electronic filing (e-filing) for any benefit request that has been available for e-filing for at least 180 days. When USCIS decides to mandate e-filing it will post the requirement on its website and provide a 60-day grace period; mandated e-filing requires using a USCIS online account to complete forms online or upload a PDF. This interim final rule is effective August 11, 2026.
Estimated large net savings for USCIS filers
DHS estimates annual gross cost savings to requestors of about $533 million and additional annual costs related to the e-filing waiver form of about $15 million, for net annual savings to requestors of approximately $518 million. DHS also estimates an annual e-filing fee discount will transfer about $140 million from the government to requestors and reports 10-year undiscounted net savings of about $5,181 million.
Waiver process and new waiver fee established
The rule creates a process for individuals who cannot e-file to request a waiver of the e-filing requirement, and adds a new form and fee to apply for that waiver (with limited fee-waiver availability under 8 CFR 106.3). Requestors who seek a waiver may incur time, mailing, and fee costs to apply for it.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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