Applying for a green card is one of the most important steps in the U.S. immigration process. It provides lawful permanent resident status, which allows you to live and work in the United States indefinitely. But before starting the application, it’s important to understand the financial costs involved.
The cost of getting a green card depends on your category, whether you apply from inside the U.S. or abroad, and whether you need legal assistance.
At Pelton + Balducci, we help families and workers navigate the process with confidence. We’ll review your situation, explain the costs, and ensure your application is filed correctly the first time.
USCIS Filing Fees
The largest portion of the cost comes from government filing fees with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). As of 2025, these are the most common fees:
- Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status): $1,440
- This fee applies if you are already in the U.S. and adjusting status. It includes most biometric services.
- Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): $625-675
- Filed by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident sponsoring a family member.
- Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker): $715
- Filed by an employer sponsoring a worker.
- Consular Processing Fee: $325
- Paid to the Department of State for applicants processing outside the U.S.
- Immigrant Fee: $235
- Paid after your immigrant visa is approved and before you travel to the U.S. to receive your green card.
These are just the core filing fees. Depending on your case, you may also need to submit forms like waivers of inadmissibility or travel documents, each with its own fee. USCIS regularly updates its costs for green card applications, so it’s important to check the latest amounts before filing.
Medical Examination Costs
Every green card applicant must complete a medical exam with a USCIS-designated civil surgeon (in the U.S.) or panel physician (abroad). The cost varies widely, generally ranging from $200 to $500, and depends on the doctor, vaccinations required, and location.
Legal Fees
While it is possible to file a green card application on your own, many applicants choose to work with an experienced immigration attorney to avoid mistakes and delays. Attorney fees vary based on the complexity of the case:
- Family-based cases: $2,000–$6,000 on average
- Employment-based cases: $5,000–$10,000 or more, depending on the process
- Cases involving waivers or removal defense: Higher, since these require more preparation and legal strategy
Although legal fees increase the cost, they also reduce the risk of denial, delays, or costly mistakes.
Other Possible Expenses
- Translations & document preparation: Certified translations of birth certificates, marriage certificates, or other documents can cost $20–$50 per page.
- Travel costs: If you’re applying abroad, you may need to pay for travel to the U.S. consulate or embassy for your interview.
- Renewals while waiting: Some applicants waiting on backlogs must renew work permits or travel documents, which come with additional USCIS fees.
Total Estimated Cost
The total cost to apply for a green card can range from $1,700 (government fees + medical exam) to over $10,000 if you include attorney fees and related expenses. Your final cost depends on the type of case, whether you are applying inside or outside the U.S., and how complicated your immigration history is.
Why Work With an Immigration Lawyer?
Because of the significant time and money invested in a green card application, having a knowledgeable attorney by your side is invaluable. At Pelton + Balducci, we help clients avoid unnecessary costs and delays by ensuring applications are complete, accurate, and supported with the right documentation.
Contact Pelton + Balducci Today
Getting a green card is an investment in your future — but you don’t have to navigate the process alone. Our New Orleans–based team has over 50 years of combined experience helping clients through every step of the immigration process, from filing family petitions to resolving complex inadmissibility issues.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward permanent residency in the United States.
FAQs About Green Card Costs
- What are the government filing fees for a green card?
The main filing fee for a green card is $1,440 for Form I-485 if you apply from inside the U.S. Additional fees include $625 for family petitions (Form I-130), $715 for employment petitions (Form I-140), and $325 for consular processing if you apply abroad. - How much does the medical exam cost?
The required medical exam usually costs between $200 and $500, depending on the doctor, vaccinations, and location. - Do I have to pay for legal fees when applying for a green card?
Hiring an immigration lawyer is not required, but many applicants choose to do so. Legal fees range from $2,000–$6,000 for family-based cases and higher for employment or complex cases. Working with an attorney helps avoid mistakes that could delay or deny your application. - Are there any hidden or extra costs?
Yes. You may need to pay for certified translations ($20–$50 per page), travel to consulates for interviews, or renewals of work permits and travel documents if your case is delayed. - Can green card fees be waived?
In some cases, USCIS allows applicants with very low incomes to request a fee waiver for certain applications. However, not all green card–related forms qualify. It’s best to consult with an immigration attorney to see if you may be eligible. - What is the total cost of getting a green card?
The total cost usually ranges from $1,700 to over $10,000, once you include filing fees, the medical exam, translations, and attorney fees. The final amount depends on your case type and complexity.
