How much does it cost to get a green card? It’s one of the most common (and important) questions when starting the green card application process with USCIS.
So let’s get to the answer right away:
Most people spend anywhere from $1,200 to $8,500 to get a permanent resident card in 2025. Your total cost depends on your visa category, where you’re applying from, and whether you hire an immigration lawyer.
Note: Effective April 1, 2024, the fee increased from $220 to $235. Be sure to include this in your budget when calculating total filing fees.
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What Really Affects Green Card Costs
The total cost depends on these factors:
- Whether you’re applying to adjust status inside the U.S. or through an immigrant visa abroad
- The green card process type is family-based, employment-based, refugee/asylee, etc.
- If you’re working with the best immigration services or hiring an attorney
- Added expenses like the medical exam, translations, or document prep
For instance, someone applying to register permanent residence as the spouse of a citizen from within the U.S. will pay more than a qualifying family member applying from outside.
And if you’re wondering: how much does it cost to get a green card with a lawyer? It can run from $3,500 to $8,500. But it also varies more on the complexity of your case. If you’re filing an immigrant petition for an alien relative or you’re an alien worker, legal help may save time and prevent mistakes.
How Much You’ll Pay for a Family-Based Green Card
A family member sponsoring you is one of the most common paths to getting a green card. If you’re a green card holder or citizen sponsoring a spouse, parent, or child, here’s what you’ll pay:
The government filing fee for this type of green card is $3,005 when applying from inside the U.S. (adjusting status) and $1,340 for those applying from outside through consular processing.
Note: These estimates do not include the cost of the required medical exam, which varies depending on the provider (typically $200–$500).
Submit Form I-130 or Petition for Alien Relative. Note that this form requires a separate filing fee.. Depending on your situation, you may also need to file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence, which also has its own filing fee. Additional costs may include biometric services (usually $85), translation of foreign documents, legal assistance if using an immigration attorney, and courier or mailing fees.
While hiring an attorney isn’t mandatory, many applicants choose to do so for peace of mind and to avoid delays. Altogether, the full cost of a family-based green card can range from $1,500 to over $5,000, depending on your circumstances.
Other Common Green Card Categories
Some typical green card costs for other visa types:
1. Employment-Based Green Card
- USCIS Filing Fees: $1,200–$2,000
- Employer Costs (e.g., PERM): $1,000–$3,000+
- Medical Exam: $200–$500
- Total Cost: $2,500–$4,500
This process often involves filing an immigrant petition for an alien worker (Form I-140) and potentially applying for employment authorization (Form I-765) and advance parole (Form I-131) during the adjustment of status. Employers may also need to conduct labor certification (PERM), which adds time and cost.
2. Diversity Visa Lottery
- Winning the lottery = Free
- Post-selection steps (visa processing, USCIS fee, etc.): $1,000–$2,000
Even lottery winners must still complete the full green card application process, which includes a medical exam, a visa interview, background checks, and paying the required government filing fees. A sponsor may be needed to show financial support.
3. Refugee or Asylee Green Card
- Application to register permanent residence: $0
- Medical Exam (if required): $100–$300
- Total Cost: Usually under $500
Asylees or refugees who have lived for a year are eligible to apply. This category often includes advanced permission to travel and work, with few online filing fees involved. The legal team may also assist with paperwork at little to no cost.
Mandatory Government Fees for Green Cards
Here’s a breakdown of the required government fees to register permanent residence and become a lawful permanent resident:
| Fee Type | Cost (to Applicant Living Abroad) | Cost (to Applicant Living in the U.S.) |
| Immigrant Petition for Alien Relative (Form I-130) | $675 | $675 |
| Application to Register Permanent Residence (Form I-485) | Not required | $1,440 |
| Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) | $120 | $0 |
| Employment Authorization (Form I-765) (optional) | Not required | $260 |
| Travel Document (Form I-131) (optional) | Not required | $630 |
| Biometrics (Fingerprints & Photo) | Included in the filing fee | Included in the filing fee |
| State Department Processing Fee | $325 | Not required |
| USCIS Immigrant Fee | $235 | Not required |
| Medical Examination | Varies | Varies |
| Total | $1,340 | $3,005 |
These mandatory filing fees are charged by the Department of State and USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) and are necessary whether you’re adjusting your status or going through any consular processing.
Just keep in mind that there are other costs to consider in your green card application process, like legal help. Many people wonder how much it costs to get a green card with a lawyer, especially if they need help navigating tricky forms or long processing times. Hiring an immigration attorney isn’t required, but it can simplify the process, especially if you have complex circumstances.
Once you finally get that card, you’re officially a green cardholder. If it’s ever lost or expires, you’ll need to file to replace it with a permanent resident card, which has its own fee.
Lawyer Fees: Are They Worth It?
Immigration law is complex. Errors can delay your green card process or lead to rejections. Many people hire immigration lawyers to help:
- Ensure documents are correct
- Navigate complicated situations
- Prepare for interviews
- Get peace of mind
If you’re nervous or overwhelmed, a lawyer can guide you through the green card process.
Final Thoughts
The green card process is expensive and sometimes frustrating, but it can lead to a stable life, a secure job, and, eventually, U.S. citizenship.
To recap:
- The flat fee is around $1,200–$2,500
- You’ll also pay for a medical exam, documents, and other extras
If you’re still wondering how much it costs to get a green card with a lawyer, the answer depends on your case, but expect to budget an extra $2,000–$6,000 for expert guidance.
In the end, this isn’t just a purchase—it’s an investment in your future. It’s best to seek advice from an experienced immigration lawyer.
Also Read: Top 10 Green Card Sponsors Every Immigrant Should Know
