Premium Processing ROI Calculator
Is it worth paying $2,805 for Premium Processing? Calculate your break-even point based on your salary and how many days of work you might lose without it.
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Enter your salary to see how many days of work you need to save to make premium processing worth the cost.
Premium Processing FAQs
What is USCIS Premium Processing?
Premium Processing is an optional service (Form I-907) where USCIS guarantees a decision or action on your case within 15 to 45 days, depending on the form, in exchange for an additional filing fee.
How much is the premium processing fee in 2026?
For most employment-based forms like H-1B (I-129) and I-140, the fee is $2,805. For student/dependent forms like the I-539, the fee is $1,965. For F-1 OPT/STEM EADs (I-765), the fee is $1,685.
Does premium processing guarantee an approval?
No. Premium processing only guarantees that USCIS will take an action on your case within the specified timeframe. That action could be an approval, a denial, a Request for Evidence (RFE), or a Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID).
What happens if USCIS doesn't meet the premium processing deadline?
If USCIS fails to take action within the guaranteed 15-45 day window, they are required to refund your premium processing fee, but they will continue to process your case on an expedited basis.
Does premium processing speed up my green card wait time?
No. Premium processing only speeds up the adjudication of the I-140 petition itself. It does not change your priority date or speed up the Visa Bulletin backlog.
Can I upgrade to premium processing after I've already filed?
Yes. You can file Form I-907 to upgrade an already pending petition to premium processing at any time, provided the category is eligible.
Who pays for the H-1B premium processing fee?
By law, the employer must pay the base H-1B filing fees. However, the employee is allowed to pay the $2,805 premium processing fee if they are requesting it for their own personal reasons (e.g., upcoming personal travel).
Does an RFE pause the premium processing clock?
Yes. If USCIS issues a Request for Evidence (RFE), the clock stops. Once USCIS receives your full response to the RFE, a new 15 or 45-day clock begins.
Is premium processing available for marriage green cards?
No. Currently, premium processing is not available for family-based I-130 petitions or the I-485 adjustment of status applications.
Is it financially worth it to pay $2,805 for an H-1B transfer?
It depends on your situation. If waiting for regular processing means you must go on unpaid leave for a month, the lost wages usually far exceed the $2,805 fee. You can use our ROI calculator to check your exact break-even point.