Understanding Form I-912 Request for Fee Waiver
Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, allows eligible applicants to ask U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to waive the filing fee for certain immigration benefit requests. Before submitting Form I-912, confirm that both the immigration form and your filing category are eligible for a fee waiver. You must also qualify under at least one of these eligibility bases:
- You receive a qualifying means-tested benefit.
- Your household income is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- You are experiencing extreme financial hardship.
In most cases, Form I-912 must be submitted on paper together with the application, petition, motion, or service request for which you are requesting a fee waiver. Do not file Form I-912 by itself. USCIS states that most fee-waiver requests cannot be submitted through online filing.
Form I-912 applies only to eligible USCIS filing fees. It cannot be used to waive U.S. passport application fees, which are administered separately by the U.S. Department of State.
Looking for Your USCIS Form?
Form I-912 is used to request a fee waiver for certain USCIS applications, petitions, and requests. If you already know which immigration form you’re filing, choose it below to learn about its filing requirements and fee-waiver eligibility.
- Form N-400 – Apply for Naturalization
- Form I-90 – Replace or Renew a Green Card
- Form I-485 – Apply for Adjustment of Status
- Form I-765 – Apply for Employment Authorization
- View All USCIS Forms
Form I-912 at a Glance
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Official name | Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver |
| Purpose | Request a waiver of an eligible USCIS filing fee |
| Cost to file | $0 |
| Can it be filed by itself? | No |
| Filing method | Generally submitted on paper with the underlying USCIS application, petition, motion, or request |
| Eligibility bases | Qualifying means-tested benefit, qualifying household income, or extreme financial hardship |
| Does every USCIS form qualify? | No. Eligibility depends on the form and filing category. |
| Current fee reference | USCIS Form G-1055 Fee Schedule |
| Can it waive passport fees? | No |
Important: Before preparing Form I-912, confirm that your immigration form and filing category are eligible for a fee waiver by checking the current USCIS Form G-1055 Fee Schedule.
Two Requirements for a USCIS Fee Waiver
Before submitting Form I-912, make sure you meet both of these requirements:
1. Your USCIS filing must be eligible for a fee waiver
Not every USCIS application, petition, motion, or request qualifies for a fee waiver. Before evaluating your financial eligibility, confirm that your form and filing category permit a fee waiver by reviewing the current USCIS Form G-1055 Fee Schedule and the instructions for the underlying form.
2. You must demonstrate an inability to pay
If your filing is eligible, you must qualify under one of the following eligibility bases:
- You receive a qualifying means-tested benefit.
- Your household income is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
- You are experiencing extreme financial hardship.
The following sections explain each eligibility basis, the supporting evidence you should provide, and how USCIS evaluates fee-waiver requests.
Fee Waiver, Fee Exemption, and Reduced Fee: What You Need to Know
Although these terms are often used interchangeably, they have different meanings under USCIS rules. Understanding the difference can help you determine whether you need to submit Form I-912 or whether another fee option applies.
| Category | What it means | Is a separate request required? | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fee waiver | USCIS may waive an eligible filing fee if you demonstrate an inability to pay. | Yes, usually by submitting Form I-912 or a written fee-waiver request. | Certain eligible USCIS filings |
| Fee exemption | The USCIS fee schedule lists a $0 filing fee for the form or filing category. | No | Category-specific exemptions |
| Reduced fee | USCIS allows a lower filing fee under specific eligibility requirements. | Depends on the form and filing process. | Certain qualifying Form N-400 applicants |
Naturalization applicants: Some Form N-400 applicants may qualify for a reduced filing fee instead of a complete fee waiver. Review the current Form N-400 filing instructions to determine which option applies.
A fee exemption means no filing fee is required for an eligible category, so Form I-912 is not needed. However, a fee exemption does not determine whether you qualify for the underlying immigration benefit.
Which USCIS Forms May Allow a Fee Waiver?
Not every USCIS form is eligible for a fee waiver. Eligibility depends on both the form and the filing category, and some forms allow fee waivers only for specific applicants. Before submitting Form I-912, always verify the current USCIS Form G-1055 Fee Schedule and the instructions for the underlying form.
Some humanitarian and protected categories may qualify for a fee exemption or a fee waiver, depending on the filing type. Because these are different forms of fee relief, always confirm the applicable fee rule before filing.
| Form | Purpose | Fee-waiver guidance |
|---|---|---|
| I-90 | Replace or renew a Green Card | A fee waiver may be available for certain filing reasons. Verify your filing category in Form G-1055. |
| I-485 | Apply for adjustment of status | Fee waivers are available only for limited adjustment categories. |
| I-751 | Remove conditions on permanent residence | Check the current Form G-1055 and Form I-751 instructions to determine eligibility. |
| I-765 | Apply for employment authorization | Fee requirements vary by employment authorization category. |
| N-400 | Apply for naturalization | Some applicants may qualify for either a fee waiver or a reduced filing fee. |
| N-600 | Apply for a Certificate of Citizenship | Certain applicants may qualify for a fee waiver. |
| N-600K | Apply for citizenship under INA Section 322 | Certain applicants may qualify for a fee waiver. |
Need Help Determining Your Eligibility?
Not every USCIS form or filing category qualifies for a fee waiver. If you’re unsure whether Form I-912 applies to your situation, contact us for guidance before preparing your application. Get Help for Fee Waiver.
How to File Form I-912
Follow these steps to request a USCIS fee waiver using Form I-912:
Step 1: Confirm Your Filing Is Eligible
Before completing Form I-912, verify that your immigration application, petition, motion, or request permits a fee waiver. Review the current USCIS Form G-1055 Fee Schedule, the instructions for the underlying form, and any applicable statutory fees that cannot be waived.
Step 2: Download the Current Form
Download the latest version of Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, and its instructions from the USCIS website. USCIS provides the form as a free, fillable PDF that can be completed electronically before printing or filled out by hand.
Step 3: Choose Your Eligibility Basis
Select the reason you qualify for a fee waiver. You must qualify under one of these eligibility bases:
- Receipt of a qualifying means-tested benefit
- Household income at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
- Extreme financial hardship
Step 4: Complete and Sign Form I-912
Complete every required section using information that matches your underlying immigration filing. Review the form carefully before signing and dating it. USCIS will not accept an unsigned Form I-912.
Step 5: Attach Supporting Evidence
Include documents supporting the eligibility basis you selected. Depending on your circumstances, this may include benefit award letters, tax returns, pay statements, bank records, medical bills, or other evidence of financial hardship.
Step 6: Submit the Complete Filing Package
Place Form I-912 together with the underlying immigration application, petition, motion, or request, and mail the complete package to the correct USCIS filing address. If your filing includes any fees that cannot be waived under current USCIS rules, include the required payment with your submission.
Before mailing your package, keep copies of Form I-912, the underlying filing, your supporting evidence, and your mailing receipt for your records.
Eligibility Based on a Means-Tested Benefit
You may qualify for a Form I-912 fee waiver if you or, in certain circumstances, a qualifying household member currently receives a means-tested benefit.
A means-tested benefit is a government assistance program for which eligibility is based primarily on the recipient’s income and financial resources. Because eligibility rules vary by program, receiving a government benefit does not automatically qualify you for a USCIS fee waiver.
Examples of Qualifying Means-Tested Benefits
Examples of programs that may support a fee-waiver request include:
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Certain qualifying state, local, or tribal income-based assistance programs
Programs such as Medicare, Social Security retirement benefits, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), unemployment insurance, and most student financial aid generally do not establish eligibility for a Form I-912 fee waiver solely because you receive them. Always review the current Form I-912 instructions before relying on a particular benefit.
Using a Family Member’s Benefit
In some situations, you may rely on a qualifying means-tested benefit received by your spouse or another eligible household member. Whether you can do so depends on factors such as your relationship to the recipient, your household arrangement, financial dependency, and the current Form I-912 instructions.
If you rely on another person’s benefit, include documentation showing both the qualifying benefit and your relationship to the recipient.
Supporting Evidence
Submit a recent official notice, approval letter, or other document from the agency administering the benefit. The document should identify:
- The recipient’s name
- The benefit program
- The issuing agency
- The approval or renewal date
- Evidence that the benefit is currently active
If relying on a family member’s benefit, include any required documentation establishing your relationship or household status.
Note: A benefit card alone may not be sufficient if it does not identify the benefit, recipient, issuing agency, or current eligibility period.
Eligibility Based on Household Income
You may qualify for a Form I-912 fee waiver if your annual household income is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines at the time you file. Use the current HHS Poverty Guidelines to determine whether your household income meets the applicable limit.
Who Counts Toward Household Size?
Household size is used to determine whether your household income falls within the applicable Federal Poverty Guideline. Depending on your circumstances and the current Form I-912 instructions, your household may include:
| Person | Usually included? | Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Applicant | Yes | Always included |
| Spouse | Usually | Subject to current instructions and separation rules |
| Children or legal wards | Depends | Based on age, dependency, and residence |
| Disabled dependent adult child | May be included | If instruction requirements are met |
| Parents | Depends | Based on dependency and household rules |
| Other tax dependents | May be included | Verify current Form I-912 instructions |
| Roommates | Usually no | Unless their financial contributions must be counted |
Income and Household Contributions
When calculating household income, include income and financial support that must be counted under the current Form I-912 instructions.
For example:
- Financial contributions made toward your household expenses, such as rent, mortgage, or utility payments, may need to be included.
- Child support should generally be reported based on the amount you actually receive rather than the court-ordered amount if the payments differ.
- If reported financial support differs from a court order or other records, provide an explanation and supporting documentation.
Special Situations
Some applicants may need to provide additional information, including:
- Spouse living abroad: If your spouse contributes to your household income, include those contributions. If your spouse provides no financial support, explain the circumstances.
- Marital separation: If you are married but separated, explain your current living and financial arrangement. If you do not include your spouse’s income, provide a written explanation and supporting evidence (such as separate leases, utility bills, tax returns, or court orders) showing that you do not share a household or financial resources. Include any financial support you actually receive from your spouse if the current Form I-912 instructions require it to be counted.
2026 Form I-912 Income Guidelines
To qualify based on household income, your documented annual household income must generally be at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for your household size.
48 contiguous states and Washington, D.C.
| Household size | 2026 HHS guideline | 150% of guideline |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $15,960 | $23,940 |
| 2 | $21,640 | $32,460 |
| 3 | $27,320 | $40,980 |
| 4 | $33,000 | $49,500 |
| 5 | $38,680 | $58,020 |
| 6 | $44,360 | $66,540 |
| 7 | $50,040 | $75,060 |
| 8 | $55,720 | $83,580 |
| Each additional person | Add $5,680 | Add $8,520 |
HHS publishes separate 2026 guideline amounts for Alaska and Hawaii.
For Alaska
| Household size | 2026 HHS guideline | 150% |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $19,950 | $29,925 |
| 2 | $27,050 | $40,575 |
| 3 | $34,150 | $51,225 |
| 4 | $41,250 | $61,875 |
| 5 | $48,350 | $72,525 |
| 6 | $55,450 | $83,175 |
| 7 | $62,550 | $93,825 |
| 8 | $69,650 | $104,475 |
| Each additional person | Add $7,100 | Add $10,650 |
For Hawaii
| Household size | 2026 HHS guideline | 150% |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $18,360 | $27,540 |
| 2 | $24,890 | $37,335 |
| 3 | $31,420 | $47,130 |
| 4 | $37,950 | $56,925 |
| 5 | $44,480 | $66,720 |
| 6 | $51,010 | $76,515 |
| 7 | $57,540 | $86,310 |
| 8 | $64,070 | $96,105 |
| Each additional person | Add $6,530 | Add $9,795 |
Note: These income figures are based on the official 2026 HHS Poverty Guidelines. Always confirm the current poverty guidelines and Form I-912 instructions before filing, as income thresholds and eligibility requirements may change.
Eligibility Based on Extreme Financial Hardship
You may qualify for a Form I-912 fee waiver if unexpected financial circumstances make you unable to pay the required USCIS filing fee. USCIS considers each request individually based on the facts and supporting evidence you provide.
Examples of circumstances that may establish extreme financial hardship include:
- Loss of employment or significant loss of income
- Major unreimbursed medical expenses
- Eviction, foreclosure, or homelessness
- Natural disasters
- Death of a household member
- Military deployment
- Other documented events that substantially affect your ability to pay
Supporting Evidence
Include a written explanation of your financial situation along with documents that support your request, such as:
- Bank statements
- Income or unemployment records
- Rent, mortgage, or utility bills
- Medical bills or insurance records
- Debt or liability statements
- Disaster, insurance, or police reports, when applicable
If you cannot obtain certain documents, explain why and provide alternative evidence whenever possible, such as an affidavit from a person familiar with your circumstances.
Note: USCIS evaluates hardship requests on a case-by-case basis. Providing clear documentation and a detailed explanation can help support your fee-waiver request.
Does Requesting a Fee Waiver Affect Your Immigration Status?
Requesting or receiving a Form I-912 fee waiver does not grant, extend, or change your immigration status. It only asks USCIS to waive an eligible filing fee for the underlying application, petition, motion, or request.
Approval of Form I-912 does not mean that USCIS has approved the underlying immigration benefit. USCIS evaluates the fee-waiver request and the immigration application separately.
Means-Tested Benefits and Public Charge
Receiving a qualifying means-tested benefit may support your fee-waiver request. However, public-charge determinations are governed by separate laws and do not apply to every immigration benefit or category.
Do not assume that requesting a fee waiver will affect a public-charge determination. Review the USCIS guidance applicable to your immigration benefit or seek legal advice if you have case-specific concerns.
Provide Accurate Information
Submit complete, truthful, and accurate information with Form I-912. False statements, altered documents, or material omissions may result in the rejection or denial of the fee-waiver request, affect the underlying immigration filing, and may have additional immigration consequences.
Form I-912 Supporting-Document Checklist
Use this checklist before submitting your fee-waiver request.
| If Applying Based On | Supporting Documents |
|---|---|
| Means-tested benefit | • Current benefit approval or renewal notice • Document showing the recipient’s name, benefit program, issuing agency, and current eligibility • Proof of your relationship to the benefit recipient, if required |
| Household income | • Most recent federal tax return or IRS tax transcript • Recent pay statements or employer letter • Benefit or pension statements, if applicable • Proof of household size, if required • Documentation of financial contributions or other income, when applicable |
| Extreme financial hardship | • Written explanation of your hardship • Bank statements • Medical bills, housing expenses, or debt records • Unemployment records, if applicable • Disaster, insurance, or police reports, if applicable |
For every Form I-912 submission, include:
- Completed and signed Form I-912
- The underlying USCIS application, petition, motion, or request
- Any required certified English translations
- Payment for any fees that cannot be waived, if applicable
- A complete copy of everything you submit for your records
Fees Form I-912 Does Not Waive
An approved Form I-912 request does not waive every fee associated with a USCIS filing. Under current USCIS rules, certain additional statutory fees required by Public Law 119-21 cannot be waived, even if the underlying USCIS filing fee is eligible for a waiver.
Before submitting your application, review the current USCIS Form G-1055 Fee Schedule and USCIS Fee Calculator to determine whether your filing includes any non-waivable fees.
Important: If your filing requires a non-waivable statutory fee, include the required payment with your application to avoid delays or rejection.
Common Reasons USCIS May Reject a Form I-912 Request
USCIS may reject or decline a fee-waiver request if it does not meet the filing requirements. Common reasons include:
- The underlying form or filing category is not eligible for a fee waiver.
- Form I-912 is unsigned or incomplete.
- The eligibility basis is not adequately explained.
- Required supporting evidence is missing or insufficient.
- Household or financial information is inconsistent.
- Foreign-language documents do not include certified English translations.
- Form I-912 is submitted without the underlying USCIS filing.
- The application is mailed to the wrong USCIS filing address.
- A required non-waivable fee is not included.
- The underlying immigration form is incomplete, outdated, or contains information that conflicts with Form I-912.
Tip: Review your entire filing package before mailing it to ensure all required forms, signatures, supporting documents, and payments are included.
What Happens After You File Form I-912?
USCIS reviews your fee-waiver request together with the underlying immigration application. The decision is based on whether:
- The underlying filing is eligible for a fee waiver.
- Form I-912 is complete and properly signed.
- You have provided sufficient evidence to support your eligibility.
Depending on its review, USCIS may:
- Accept the filing and process your fee-waiver request.
- Reject or return the filing package if required information or fees are missing.
- Request additional evidence or information, when applicable.
- Issue other filing instructions based on your case.
Looking for instructions for your USCIS form?
Explore our step-by-step guides for Form N-400, Form I-90, Form I-485, Form I-765, and other immigration forms to learn the filing requirements and available fee-relief options.
FAQs About Fee Form I-912
How long does USCIS take to review Form I-912?
USCIS does not provide one universal Form I-912 processing time. The fee-waiver request is reviewed with the filing package, and handling may depend on the underlying form and filing circumstances.
Can Form I-912 Be Used With Form I-765?
Yes, but it depends on your employment authorization category. Some Form I-765 categories have no filing fee, some require a filing fee, and others may permit a fee waiver. Before requesting a fee waiver, review the current USCIS Form G-1055 Fee Schedule and the filing instructions for your Form I-765 eligibility category.
Does Form I-864 Affect Form I-912?
Not automatically. A sponsor’s obligations under Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, are separate from the household-income calculations used for Form I-912. Follow the current Form I-912 instructions when determining whose income and financial contributions must be included. If you are unsure how Form I-864 applies to your situation, consider consulting a qualified immigration attorney or Department of Justice-accredited representative.
What happens if USCIS does not accept my fee-waiver request?
USCIS may reject or return the underlying filing or provide instructions in a notice. Follow the notice carefully. You may need to correct and refile the package with the proper fee, but the required action depends on the form and the reason the request was not accepted.
Get Help Preparing Your USCIS Forms
Preparing a USCIS application is easier when you understand the filing requirements and gather the necessary supporting documents before you apply. Before submitting your application, review the current Form I-912 instructions, Form G-1055 Fee Schedule, and the instructions for your underlying USCIS form to confirm your eligibility, filing fees, and mailing requirements.
If you need assistance, ImmigrationDirect’s guided form-preparation service can help you complete your forms, organize supporting documents, and prepare your filing package before submission.
