Marriage Green Card – How Much Does it Cost
The cost of obtaining a Marriage Green Card (officially known as a U.S. Permanent Resident Card) through marriage to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident can vary based on several factors. Here are some of the potential costs involved:
- Form I-130 Petition: The U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse must file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, on behalf of the foreign spouse. The filing fee for Form I-130 was $535 as of September 2021.
- Form I-485 Adjustment of Status: If the foreign spouse is already in the U.S., they can file Form I-485 to adjust their status to that of a permanent resident. As of September 2021, the filing fee for Form I-485 was $1,140. This fee includes the cost of biometrics (fingerprints and photo) for the applicant.
- Form I-864 Affidavit of Support: The U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse must also submit Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, to demonstrate that they have the financial means to support the foreign spouse. There is no filing fee for Form I-864.
- Medical Examination and Vaccinations: Applicants are required to undergo a medical examination by an authorized physician and receive any necessary vaccinations. The cost of the medical examination and vaccinations can vary.
- Other Costs: There might be additional costs associated with obtaining supporting documents, translations, and photocopies.
It’s important to note that government fees can change over time, so I recommend checking the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website for the most up-to-date fee information before beginning the application process. Additionally, the process may involve other steps, such as an interview at a USCIS office and potential legal consultation fees if you choose to work with an immigration attorney.
Are there any additional costs associated with filing a marriage green card application?
Yes, there can be additional costs associated with filing a marriage green card application beyond the government filing fees I mentioned earlier. These additional costs can vary depending on individual circumstances and choices. Here are some potential additional costs to consider:
- Attorney Fees: Many people choose to hire an immigration attorney to help them navigate the green card application process. Attorney fees can vary widely based on the complexity of the case and the services provided.
- Translation and Document Certification: If any of the required documents are not in English, you may need to have them translated and certified, which can incur costs.
- Travel Expenses: If the foreign spouse is living outside the U.S. and needs to travel to the U.S. for interviews or other parts of the application process, there will be travel expenses including airfare, accommodation, and transportation.
- Medical Examination: As mentioned earlier, applicants are required to undergo a medical examination by an authorized physician. The cost of the medical examination can vary.
- Supporting Documents: Collecting and obtaining the necessary supporting documents, such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, and other records, might involve fees for obtaining copies or certificates.
- Biometrics and Photos: The biometrics fee is typically included in the Form I-485 filing fee. However, there might be additional costs associated with getting passport-style photos taken.
- Postage and Mailing Fees: You’ll need to send various documents and applications through mail, and postage costs can add up.
- Adjustment of Status Interview: If the foreign spouse is adjusting their status within the U.S., they may be required to attend an interview at a USCIS office. While there’s no separate fee for the interview itself, there could be travel costs associated with attending the interview.
- Miscellaneous Costs: Depending on individual circumstances, there might be other unexpected costs that arise during the application process.
It’s important to carefully review the USCIS guidelines and requirements, gather all necessary documents, and budget for potential additional costs to ensure a smooth application process. If you’re considering hiring an attorney, make sure to get a clear understanding of their fees and the services they will provide.
How to reduce the cost of marriage green card application filing?
Reducing the cost of a marriage green card application filing involves careful planning, organization, and making informed choices. Here are some strategies to help minimize expenses while still successfully navigating the application process:
- Do Your Own Research: Familiarize yourself with the green card application process by studying official USCIS resources and guidelines. Understanding the process will help you avoid unnecessary expenses.
- Prepare Your Own Documents: Collect and organize the required documents yourself to avoid paying fees to obtain copies or certificates from third parties.
- Translation and Certification: If you or someone you trust is proficient in both English and the relevant language, you may be able to translate documents yourself to save on translation costs. Some translations might also be accepted from reputable online translation services.
- Choose the Right Forms: Make sure you’re using the correct forms and applying for the appropriate benefits. Filling out the wrong forms can result in additional fees and delays.
- Use Fee Waivers: In some cases, USCIS offers fee waivers for certain applicants who demonstrate financial hardship. Check USCIS guidelines to see if you qualify for a fee waiver.
- DIY Application: While hiring an attorney can provide legal expertise, some applicants choose to complete the application process on their own to save on attorney fees. This requires careful research and attention to detail.
- Self-Representation: If you’re comfortable with legal forms and procedures, you can represent yourself at interviews and appointments, potentially saving on attorney fees.
- Prepare for Interviews: Thoroughly prepare for any interviews or appointments to ensure a successful outcome. Being well-prepared can help avoid potential delays and additional expenses.
- Avoid Unnecessary Services: Some service providers might offer unnecessary services or products related to the application process. Be cautious and research any services before paying for them.
- Online Resources: Utilize reputable online resources, forums, and communities to get advice and information from people who have gone through similar processes. This can provide insights and tips that could help you save money.
- Government Resources: Rely on official government websites, forms, and resources as your primary source of information. Avoid unnecessary costs by steering clear of unverified or unofficial sources.
- Budget and Plan: Create a detailed budget for the entire application process, including government fees, potential attorney fees, and other related costs. This will help you allocate funds wisely and prevent unexpected financial stress.
Remember that while cost-saving measures can be helpful, it’s also important to prioritize accuracy and compliance with the application requirements. Mistakes or omissions in your application can lead to delays, additional costs, or even denial of your application. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the process, seeking legal guidance or consulting with an immigration attorney might be beneficial in the long run.