How much does a green card cost

If you’re considering applying for a US green card, one of the biggest questions you likely have is how much does a green card cost you. The answer depends on a variety of factors, including the type of green card you’re applying for, whether you’re applying as an individual or as part of a family, and what additional expenses you may need to cover.

In this guide, we’ll break down the different expenses you’ll need to consider when applying for a US green card and provide you with a complete picture of how much you can expect to pay.

Government Fees and Other Common Expenses for Green Card Applications

The government fees associated with green card applications are one of the most significant expenses you’ll need to budget for. The following are the most common government fees you’ll need to pay when applying for a green card:

• Form I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status: $1,140
• Biometrics Fee (fingerprints and photo): $85
• Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative (if applicable): $535
• Form I-864 Affidavit of Support (if applicable): $120
• Diversity Immigrant Visa Program Fee (if applicable): $330

In addition to these government fees, you’ll also need to budget for other common expenses associated with green card applications, including:

• Passport photos
• Translation of documents
• Notarization of documents
• Copying and printing fees
• Postage and courier fees

USCIS Immigrant Fee

Once you’re approved for a green card, you’ll need to pay a USCIS immigrant fee of $220. This fee covers the cost of processing your green card and producing your Permanent Resident Card (also known as a “green card”).

Medical Examination Fees

Before you can apply for a green card, you’ll need to undergo a medical examination by a USCIS-approved doctor. The cost of this exam can vary depending on where you live and the doctor you choose, but you should budget around $200 to $500 for the exam.

Attorney’s Fees

While hiring an attorney is not required when applying for a green card, many applicants choose to do so to ensure their application is completed correctly and to avoid potential delays. Attorney’s fees can vary widely depending on the complexity of your case and the attorney you choose. You should budget around $2,000 to $5,000 for attorney’s fees.

Employment-Based Green Card Cost

If you’re applying for an employment-based green card, the cost will depend on the type of green card you’re applying for and whether your employer is willing to cover the expenses. The following are the most common employment-based green cards and their associated costs:

• EB-1A, EB-1B, and EB-1C: $1,140 (Form I-485) + $580 (Form I-140)
• EB-2: $1,140 (Form I-485) + $700 (Form I-140)
• EB-3: $1,140 (Form I-485) + $700 (Form I-140)

What Kinds of Family-Based Green Cards Are There?

If you’re applying for a family-based green card, the cost will depend on the specific type of green card you’re applying for. The following are their associated costs:

• Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative: $535
• Form I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status: $1,140
• Form I-751 Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence: $595
• Form I-829 Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions: $3,750

Health Insurance Fees for Green Card Holders

As a green card holder, you’ll be required to have health insurance. The cost of this insurance can vary depending on your age, location, and other factors, but you should budget around $300 to $500 per month for health insurance.

Administrative Fees Such as Filing, Translating, Copying, Printing, Notarizing Documents, Etc.

As mentioned earlier, you’ll need to pay various administrative fees when applying for a green card. These fees can include:

• Filing fees for immigration forms
• Translation fees for documents not in English
• Copying and printing fees for documents
• Notarization fees for documents

You should budget around $100 to $300 for these administrative fees.

Possible Additional Costs for Your Permanent Residency in the US

In addition to the costs associated with applying for a green card, there are also several additional costs you’ll need to consider once you’ve obtained permanent residency in the US. These can include:

• Moving expenses
• Rent or mortgage payments
• Utilities
• Transportation
• Cost of living expenses in your new city or state

How Should I Make These Payments?

When making payments for your green card application, it’s important to make sure you use the correct payment method to avoid delays or rejection of your application. The following payment methods are accepted by USCIS:

• Credit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover)
• Debit card (with a Visa or Mastercard logo)
• Personal check, cashier’s check, or money order (made payable to “USCIS”)
• Electronic funds transfer (if filing online)

Personal Review

Applying for a green card can be a complex and expensive process, but it’s important to understand all of the associated costs so you can budget accordingly. Make sure to review all of the fees and expenses listed in this guide and consult with an immigration attorney if you have any questions or concerns.

Conclusion

Obtaining a US green card is an important step toward building a better future for yourself and your family. While the cost can be significant, the benefits of permanent residency in the US can be life-changing. By understanding all of the fees and expenses associated with the green card application process, you’ll be better prepared to budget and plan for your new life in the US.

Click here: How Much Does it Cost to Become a US Citizen