A U.S. Green Card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, allows an individual to live and work in the United States permanently. For many, obtaining a Green Card is a crucial step toward establishing a life in the U.S. However, the process of applying for a Green Card comes with various fees that can sometimes be confusing. In this article, we’ll break down the different fees associated with obtaining a Green Card in the U.S., what factors can influence the cost, and other related expenses you should consider.
The Different Types of Green Cards
Before diving into the fees, it’s important to know that the cost of applying for a Green Card can vary depending on the category under which you are applying. There are several types of Green Cards, each with its own eligibility criteria and associated costs. Some of the most common Green Card categories include:
Family-Based Green Card: For relatives of U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
Employment-Based Green Card: For those who have a job offer in the U.S. or possess extraordinary skills.
Diversity Visa (Lottery): For applicants who are selected through the U.S. government’s Diversity Visa lottery program.
Refugee or Asylee Green Card: For those granted asylum or refugee status.
Each category may have slightly different costs, but the overall fee structure is fairly consistent.
Filing Fees for the Green Card Application
1. Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
If you are applying for a family-based Green Card, the first step is for your U.S. citizen or permanent resident family member to file Form I-130, also known as the Petition for Alien Relative. This form is used to establish the relationship between the petitioner and the applicant.
Fee for Form I-130: $535
This fee is non-refundable, even if the petition is denied. It covers the cost of processing the petition.
2. Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker)
For those applying for an employment-based Green Card, the employer must file Form I-140, also known as the Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker.
Fee for Form I-140: $700
Like the I-130, this fee is non-refundable.
3. Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status)
Form I-485 is the main application form used to apply for a Green Card if you are already in the U.S. and are eligible to adjust your status. This form is the most crucial part of the Green Card application process, and it comes with significant fees.
Fee for Form I-485 (for applicants aged 14-78): $1,140
Biometrics Fee: An additional $85 biometrics fee is required for applicants between the ages of 14 and 78, bringing the total cost for this group to $1,225.
Applicants under 14 or over 78 may have different fees, depending on specific circumstances.
4. DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Application Processing Fee)
For applicants who are applying for a Green Card from outside the United States through consular processing, you will need to file the DS-260 form and pay the associated fee.
Fee for DS-260: $325
This fee is required for the processing of your immigrant visa application at a U.S. consulate or embassy.
5. Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support)
If you are applying for a family-based Green Card, your sponsor will need to file Form I-864, the Affidavit of Support, to prove that they can financially support you.
Fee for Form I-864: There is no filing fee for this form when filed with Form I-130. However, a separate fee of $120 may apply if processed by the National Visa Center (NVC).
6. Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence)
If you are granted a conditional Green Card based on marriage, you will need to file Form I-751 to remove the conditions on your residence and obtain a permanent Green Card.
Fee for Form I-751: $595
Biometrics Fee: An additional $85 fee for biometrics.
7. USCIS Immigrant Fee
Once your Green Card application is approved, and you are granted permanent residency, you must pay the USCIS immigrant fee to receive your physical Green Card.
USCIS Immigrant Fee: $220
This fee is paid online after your visa is issued and before you arrive in the U.S.
Additional Fees to Consider
Aside from the main filing fees, there are other costs you may encounter during the Green Card application process.
1. Medical Examination Fee
All Green Card applicants are required to undergo a medical examination by a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)-approved doctor. The cost of the medical exam varies depending on the provider and location but can range from $200 to $500.
Estimated Medical Exam Fee: $200–$500
2. Attorney Fees
While it is not mandatory to hire an attorney to apply for a Green Card, many applicants choose to do so for assistance with the application process. Attorney fees can vary greatly depending on the complexity of your case and the attorney’s experience.
Estimated Attorney Fees: $2,000–$7,000
This cost is optional but should be considered if you need legal guidance.
3. Translation Services
If any of your documents are in a language other than English, you will need to have them translated. Professional translation services can charge anywhere from $20 to $50 per page, depending on the document’s complexity.
Estimated Translation Costs: $20–$50 per page
4. Travel Costs
If you are applying for a Green Card from outside the U.S., you may need to travel to a U.S. consulate or embassy for an interview. This can involve additional travel expenses, including flights, accommodation, and visa fees.
Estimated Travel Costs: Varies based on location.
5. Passport Photographs
You will need to submit passport-style photographs with your Green Card application. These can typically be obtained at a local pharmacy or photo service for around $10–$20.
Estimated Cost for Passport Photos: $10–$20
How to Pay Green Card Fees
USCIS offers several payment options for Green Card application fees, including:
Credit or Debit Card: You can pay using a major credit or debit card when filing online or by mailing in Form G-1450 (Authorization for Credit Card Transactions).
Check or Money Order: You can mail a check or money order payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security” along with your paper application.
Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT): For some applications, you can pay directly from your bank account using the Automated Clearing House (ACH) system.
It’s essential to make sure your payment is correct, as incorrect payments can delay your application.
See also: How to Get a US Green Card as a Canadian: A Quick Guide
Fee Waivers and Reductions
In some cases, USCIS offers fee waivers or reductions for applicants who cannot afford to pay the full Green Card application fees. To qualify for a fee waiver, you must meet certain income guidelines or demonstrate financial hardship. If eligible, you can file Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, with your Green Card application.
Eligibility: Fee waivers are generally available for those whose household income is at or below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines.
It’s important to note that not all Green Card-related forms are eligible for fee waivers. For example, fees for the DS-260 form and USCIS Immigrant Fee are typically not waivable.
Conclusion
The cost of applying for a U.S. Green Card can be significant, with various filing fees, medical examination costs, and potential legal expenses. While the standard fees for Green Card applications range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, additional costs like attorney fees, medical exams, and travel can further add to the total. For many, obtaining a Green Card is a valuable investment in their future, offering permanent residency in the U.S. and the opportunity to build a life in the country.
To ensure a smooth application process, it’s essential to budget for all potential fees and seek professional advice if needed. Make sure to regularly check the USCIS website for any changes to the fees or application process.
Related information:
