Should I pay the ”fraud prevention fee” for renewal?

It is natural to have questions about the fees involved during the H-1B visa renewal process. One point that often causes confusion is whether it is necessary to pay the ”fraud prevention fee” again.

In general, this fee was created to combat fraud during the initial obtaining of the H-1B visa – it is required on the first petition, when the visa is being requested for the first time. In the case of renewals (or extensions) of the same visa, it is usually not necessary to pay this fee again, provided that the renewal petition is filed while the visa status is still valid and there are no significant changes, such as a change of employer or the filing of a new petition from scratch.

It is important to note that the case details can influence fee charges. For example, if there is a change of employer and a new petition is filed under the same H-1B visa, the requirements may vary and there may be a need to pay certain fees that do not apply in a simple renewal.

Thus, the best practice is always to analyze your specific case and check if the current requirements of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) stipulate any exceptions. We also remind you of the importance of complying with all U.S. immigration laws and guidelines and seeking information from official sources.

Always seek support from specialized professionals and be wary of campaigns or miraculous promises that guarantee results. Professional assistance helps avoid mistakes and falling into fraudulent traps.

In summary, when renewing or extending the H-1B visa, it is usually not necessary to pay the ”fraud prevention fee” again if that fee has already been paid on the initial petition. However, in situations involving changes in the process or employer, the requirements may change. Therefore, staying well informed and following the rules is essential for a smooth process.

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

Leading journalism and editorial content at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps make immigration topics clear, trustworthy, and easy to understand. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.