The filing fees for green cards can range from around $1,000 to $3,000, but other factors will influence the total cost of a green card. So, how much does a green card cost, and how much can you expect to pay for the entire application process?
In this blog post, we’ll look at the different costs associated with green cards and explore how you can complete the application process with the help of an attorney.
To schedule a consultation with a green card attorney in Chicago, call Cho Immigration Law at 312-853-3088.
What Are the Application Fees for a Green Card?
There are multiple application fees to consider when applying for a green card in the U.S. The fees will cover the costs of filing multiple forms, with the fees and forms differing based on the type of green card you want to obtain.
So, how much is the green card fee? Generally, you may pay $1,800 or more to cover the application fees alone, which is why it’s important to ensure you have sufficient funding to cover your application. Otherwise, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may deny your application.
In a recent year, USCIS denied 133,251 out of 873,073 Form I-130 applications, which pertain to family-based green cards. Many of these instances could have been due to the inability to pay all relevant fees. To increase your chances of succeeding with your green card application, you’ll need to account for all costs while taking steps to simplify the application process.
In addition to Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, here are some of the other potential forms you might need to complete, each of which comes with a cost:
- Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status
- Form DS-260 Immigrant Visa Application for individuals applying abroad
- Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization
- Form I-601, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility
- Immigrant fee for individuals currently outside the U.S.
- Form I-864, Affidavit of Support
Supplementing forms, you will also need to pay for fees for biometric services, which will entail collecting the applicant’s fingerprints, photograph, and signature for identification purposes.
Legal Fees to Consider Before Applying for a Green Card
If you need help navigating the application process when seeking a green card, a reliable green card lawyer could be a great asset to your case. The right lawyer can help you complete and prepare all necessary forms, inform you of your rights, prepare you for your interview with immigration officers, correct a mistake on your green card after approval, or represent you in matters like removal and deportation.
While you might worry about the costs of working with an attorney, it’s worth it to have an experienced professional by your side. In fact, by hiring a reputable lawyer to help you with your case, you could ultimately save more money by avoiding costly mistakes and the need to reapply for your green card.
The costs of hiring an attorney will depend on the lawyer’s payment model and services. For example, some lawyers will charge a flat rate to help with an immigration application, while others could charge an hourly fee for representation. Whenever you speak with an attorney, ask about the cost of hiring him or her. The right attorney will be transparent about the kinds of costs you’ll need to cover for legal services.
Miscellaneous Costs of a Green Card
There are other costs to consider when applying for a green card. For instance, you might ask, “How much does a USCIS medical exam cost?” This and other aspects will likely apply to your case, adding on other expenses to consider when funding your immigrant application.
Medical Exam Expenses
You will need to pass a medical exam to continue with your application. The cost of a medical exam will depend on the healthcare provider. The exam will help determine whether you meet all health and vaccination requirements before entering the U.S.
Supporting Documentation Costs
To supplement your application forms, you must obtain and organize accurate supporting documents to file along with your application. The U.S. government or other organizations may charge you a fee to obtain these documents.
These critical documents may include:
- Marriage certificates
- Passport-style photos of applicants and their sponsors
- Government-issued photo IDs
- Proof of citizenship for a sponsor
- Criminal records
- Financial statements
Shipping Costs
To submit documentation and ship it overseas, you will need to pay for mailing and postage throughout the application process.
Travel Costs
When traveling to various locations to complete interviews and other parts of the immigration process, you will be responsible for covering the costs of transportation, including flights and motor vehicle transport.
Ultimately, your funds should account for all of these costs in addition to base application fees, which will help ensure you don’t have to worry about an incomplete process at any point.
How to Increase Your Chances of Successful Green Card Application
When applying for a green card and working to save money, there are key steps to take to help you succeed with this process and maintain sufficient funds throughout. Here is a brief guide on how to speed up the green card process while cutting costs:
Carefully Manage Costs
Before applying for your green card, be sure to budget accordingly. Consider all the forms and other expenses that may come with your application, and set the appropriate funds aside. Doing so will help you gauge how much money you actually have outside of application costs, which will help you cover the cost of living and other expenses.
Have a Friend or Family Member Translate Documents
To make sure you complete all forms with correct information, you must understand the language of each document. Instead of hiring professional translation services, which could add even more costs to the application process, reach out to a multilingual friend or family member for assistance.
Apply Online
Additionally, you’ll save even more money on your green card application by applying online. Specifically, USCIS takes $50 off the application process when people apply online, as this process is more convenient than mailing applications.
Maintain Accurate Information on All Documentation
To avoid problems when applying for your green card, keep all documents up to date with current and accurate information. These details should include accurate names, addresses, marriage and birth certification, passport details, and criminal history. Otherwise, USCIS might reject your application if information is inaccurate or inconsistent.
Submit Your Application as Early as Possible
The wait times for green cards can be long, which is why you’ll need to get an early start on the application process as soon as you’re ready. Once you have the necessary funds, and you know what you’ll need to complete the application process, start completing your forms, gathering and organizing supporting documentation, and paying the necessary fees. Doing so could help accelerate the application process and avoid delays down the road.
File During the Right Season
You should also consider the season when it’s best to apply. Some seasons are busier for certain applications than others. Generally, it’s best to wait for the off-season to apply, which could further keep the process smooth and delay-free.
Work With an Experienced Attorney
As mentioned, having an experienced green card attorney by your side can make all the difference when attempting to successfully apply for your green card and save money. The cost of hiring an attorney is often worth it if you can cut other costs and keep the process consistently efficient.
An attorney will guide you through the entire process from beginning to end, starting with detailing which documents to bring an attorney for a green card and the fees you’ll need to cover. He or she can then help you prepare all relevant forms and other documents, helping you file on time to speed up the process.
A lawyer can be particularly beneficial if you and others involved in the application are unfamiliar with the immigration process. You’ll stay informed and get the help you need at every step of the way, helping avoid confusion and potential errors that might otherwise compromise your application. The key is finding the right attorney to represent you in a case. If you would like an experienced and trusted Chicago green card attorney to support your application, the legal team at Cho Immigration Law are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about what we can do for you, from assisting with the green card application process to helping you navigate the naturalization process when seeking U.S. citizenship.
