What is USCIS premium processing and how does it work?

Premium processing is an optional service USCIS offers for certain petition types, guaranteeing a response within 15 or 30 business days depending on the form type. It is available for many employment-based petitions including I-140, I-129 (H-1B, L-1, O-1, TN, and others), and some I-539 applications. The current fee is $2,805 for most form types.

To request premium processing, the petitioner files Form I-907 together with or separately from the main petition. USCIS guarantees action within the promised timeframe, but action means an approval, denial, or request for evidence (RFE). An RFE pauses the clock; the premium processing period restarts when USCIS receives the RFE response.

Premium processing does not affect the outcome of a case. It simply speeds up the timeline. It is useful when the worker needs to start employment quickly, when a current visa is expiring and needs an extension, or when planning international travel. Not all form types are eligible for premium processing; check USCIS's current list as eligibility has expanded over time.

This is general information only, not legal advice. Consult a qualified immigration lawyer or registered migration agent for your specific situation.