Green Card Marriage Application Costs: What You’ll Really Pay

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Picture of Shawn Sedaghat, Esq.

Shawn Sedaghat, Esq.

When it comes to applying for a green card through marriage status application, understanding the costs involved is crucial.

 

These fees are not only a major part of the process but can also add up significantly, depending on several factors. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect in terms of expenses for a marriage-based green card application, breaking it all down so you’re fully informed.

 

If you’re wondering whether there are hidden fees or unexpected costs, don’t worry! By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear idea of exactly what to budget for in your green card marriage application.

 

The Main Components of Green Card Costs

Before diving into specific numbers, let’s look at the various categories of costs you’ll face. These include:

  1. Government Filing Fees
  2. Medical Exam Costs
  3. Translation and Document Preparation
  4. Biometrics Services Fees
  5. Travel and Other Miscellaneous Expenses

Each of these elements will play a role in your final total, so it’s important to account for them all.

Government Filing Fees: The Largest Expense

The most significant part of your marriage green card application cost will be the government filing fees. These fees are collected by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to process your application. Here’s a breakdown of the main fees involved:

  • Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): This form, filed by the U.S. citizen or permanent resident, costs $675 if submitted as a paper form or $625 if filed online.
  • Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status): This is the core form of your green card application, and it costs $1,440. If the applicant is under 14 years old and filing alongside their parent, the fee is $950.
  • Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support): This document is necessary to show that the sponsor has enough financial resources to support their spouse. Although many fees apply, there is no cost for the Form I-864 itself.
  • Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization): For those who want to work while their application is being processed, this form costs $260 if filed with an adjustment of status application.
  • Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document): To travel outside the U.S. while waiting for the green card, applicants must file Form I-131, which costs $630.

Altogether, marriage-based green card applicants residing in the U.S. can expect to pay $3,005 for the primary forms, biometrics, and work and travel permits. However, this amount can vary slightly based on individual circumstances.

how much does a marriage green card cost

Breakdown of Key Government Fees

Additional Costs to Consider

While filing fees are a major part of the marriage green card process, there are other expenses to keep in mind. These include:

  • Medical Exam Fees: A required medical examination typically costs between $150 and $600, depending on the location and provider.
  • Vaccination Costs: Some applicants may need to update their vaccinations during their medical exam, which can add to the overall cost.
  • Translation Services: If your documents (like your birth or marriage certificates) are not in English, you’ll need to have them translated and certified, which can range from $20 to $40 per document.
  • Photography: You’ll need two recent passport-style photos. These typically cost around $10 to $20 at most drugstores or professional photographers.

Biometric Services Fee

The biometrics services fee, which is necessary for fingerprinting and photos, is included in the overall cost of the Form I-485. If you’re applying from outside the United States, biometrics may still apply and are required for background checks.

Filing Fees Explained

One key to understanding the marriage green card process is knowing what each filing fee covers. The USCIS filing fee for the green card process includes not only the processing of your application but also additional services like biometrics and travel permits. However, you’ll need to pay these fees separately:

  • USCIS Filing Fee: The amount of the filing fee can vary depending on your specific case. For example, the filing fee for Form I-130 is typically $675, and the adjustment of status filing fee for Form I-485 is $1,440.
    The entire green card application process includes many steps, such as submitting the petition for alien relative and completing forms like the status application. Depending on your location, your total filing fees can add up to a significant amount, so be sure to plan for this when budgeting.
marriage visa application cost

The Cost of Adjustment of Status vs. Consular Processing

The adjustment of status (for those already living in the U.S.) and consular processing (for those living outside the U.S.) are two pathways for obtaining a marriage-based green card.

  • Adjustment of Status Costs: The adjustment of status application is typically more expensive because it includes forms like I-485 and additional costs for work authorization and travel permits. Altogether, this process costs around $3,005 for applicants in the U.S.
  • Consular Processing Costs: For those outside the U.S., consular processing typically costs about $1,200 to $1,500, including the immigrant petition (Form I-130), state department processing, and biometrics.

What About Permanent Residence or Adjustment of Status?

Whether you’re filing for permanent residence or adjusting status, the fees remain a major part of the process. If you choose to register permanent residence, you’ll need to file Form I-485, and this fee is currently set at $1,440. The fee for biometric services is included, so you won’t need to pay extra for fingerprinting.

 

How to Save on Green Card Costs

The green card process can be costly, but there are a few ways to potentially save money:

  • Online Filing Discount: Some forms, like the I-130, have a $50 discount for online filing. This can be a simple way to cut down costs, but remember that not all forms have an online filing option.
  • Fee Waivers: In certain cases, you may be eligible for a fee waiver based on income. This is particularly helpful for low-income families or those facing financial hardship.

FAQs: Green Card Marriage Application Costs

  1. How much does a green card through marriage cost in total?

    A green card through marriage typically costs $3,005 if you’re applying from within the U.S., or about $1,200 for consular processing abroad.
  2. What is the filing fee for Form I-130?

    The filing fee for Form I-130 is $625 online or $675 if you file a paper form.
  3. Are medical exams included in the filing fees?

    No, the cost of the medical exam, typically $150 to $600, is not included in the filing fees and must be paid separately.
  4. What other costs should I budget for during the green card application process?

    Besides filing fees, you’ll need to budget for translation services, document preparation, biometric services, and possibly travel expenses to attend interviews or biometrics appointments.
  5. Can I get a fee waiver for my green card application?

    In certain cases, USCIS offers fee waivers based on financial hardship. Be sure to check if you qualify.
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