Understanding Premium Processing

Introduction

On average, in FY 2025, it took 7.6 months to process half of the I-140 Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers. 

If you are planning to immigrate to the US on an employment-based green card, you might have been surprised to read that the I-140 takes a long time to process. So, is there an alternative? 

The answer to that is yes. You can opt for premium processing if you want an expedited response to your application from the USCIS. In 2025, with premium processing, it took only 21 days to process half of the I-140 petitions. 

In this blog, we will cover the basics of premium processing, its eligibility, costs, application processes, and whether it’s a good idea for you to opt for premium processing in 2025. Let’s get started!

What Is Premium Processing? 

The processing time for any immigration benefit can take anywhere from a couple of weeks to several months. Premium processing was introduced in 2001 to significantly reduce the time it takes to receive a decision on your application and to get an expedited and timely review, especially in employment-based visa categories.

Premium processing is an expedited processing service offered by the USCIS for an additional fee for some select forms. For most forms eligible for premium processing, the USCIS undertakes to process within 15 days if you opt for premium processing. You can file for premium processing as long as the USCIS has not made a decision on your application. 

The best part of premium processing is that if the USCIS cannot take action or respond to your application within the applicable time, you will receive a full refund of the amount you spent on premium processing. 

Which Forms Are Eligible For Premium Processing? 

Currently, premium processing is only available for the following employment-based forms:

• Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker: This includes immigration classifications such as the E-1, E-2, E-3, H-1B, H-2, H-3, L1, O, P, Q, R, and TN. 
• Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker: This includes immigration classifications such as the EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3. 
• Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization: Certain classification of I-765 such as the E-1, E-2, E-3, F-1, F-2, H-4, J-1, J-2, L-2, M-1, M-2, O-3, P-4, etc. 
• Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status: The USCIS has recently allowed F-1 students applying for OPT and STEM OPT extensions to apply for premium processing. 

How Much Does It Cost To Apply For Premium Processing? 

As of 2025, the USCIS charges a filing fee of $2805 for most I-907 forms with I-129 forms. However, the USCIS charges less if applying for I-907 with I-539 and I-765. 

If you are confused about the USCIS filing fee or any eligibility issue, consult an expert immigration lawyer for just $79. 

How Much Time Does It Take For Your Application To Process After Opting For Premium Processing? 

Depending on the form type, i.e., I-129, I-140, I-765, or I-539, the USCIS typically guarantees a response within 15-45 business days of receipt of your I-907. This does not mean that the USCIS will give a decision and accept or deny your application. Premium processing will get you a response on your application within the timeframe. This can even be a request for additional evidence. 

How To File For Premium Processing?

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to file for premium processing in 2025:

Step 1

The first step to apply for premium processing is to fill out Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service, and pay the applicable fee. In Part 2 of the form, you should mention details about the form for which you are requesting expedited processing, its number, the applicant’s name, the beneficiary’s name, etc.

Step 2

After filling out the form, you should gather any supporting documents you have to attach. These can include the receipt notice of the form, your request for premium processing, state-issued identification documents, etc. 

Step 3

Pay the required fee of I-907.

Step 4

Mail the completed I-907 with the complete fee and all the supporting documents to the USCIS address where you filed your main petition. 

Step 5

Get a receipt notice for your I-907 and wait for the required time period. The notice will include a receipt number that you can use to track the status of your application. 

Conclusion

Applying for premium processing can be helpful for employment-based visa applicants who are looking for an expedited process. However, considering the high filing fees of I-907, you should consult an experienced immigration lawyer to see if you actually need to opt for premium processing. 

Remember, premium processing doesn’t guarantee that your application will be accepted faster. The USCIS officer may only respond and review your application after you file for premium processing. 

How FileRight Can Help?

FileRight’s expert immigration team can help you make the right decision on whether you should apply for premium processing. With the expert guidance of our lawyers, you can file an I-907 with ease, minimizing the chances of errors and omissions.

Book a consultation with FileRight’s experienced immigration attorneys to file Form I-907 and expedite your application process.