Securing a 10-year green card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, is an essential step for individuals who want to live and work permanently in the United States. The green card grants permanent residency, allowing individuals to enjoy the benefits of living in the U.S., such as the ability to work, travel freely, and access certain public benefits. However, while the process of obtaining a green card can seem straightforward, there are several steps, each with their associated costs. In this article, we’ll discuss the total cost of applying for a 10-year green card, including application fees, associated costs, and other related expenses.
What Is a 10-Year Green Card?
Before diving into the financial details, it is important to understand what a 10-year green card is. The U.S. government offers this card to individuals who meet the eligibility requirements for permanent residency. The 10-year green card is issued to individuals who have been approved for lawful permanent residence and have completed all necessary immigration processes. It typically lasts for 10 years, after which you must renew it.
Types of Green Cards
There are various ways to qualify for a 10-year green card. The most common pathways include:
Family-Based Green Cards: When a U.S. citizen or permanent resident sponsors a family member.
Employment-Based Green Cards: When an employer sponsors you for permanent residency based on your skills or employment history.
Refugee/Asylum-Based Green Cards: When an individual is granted refugee or asylum status and later becomes eligible to apply for permanent residency.
The process and fees may vary slightly depending on the category under which you apply, but the general steps and expenses remain relatively consistent.
What Are the Main Costs for a 10-Year Green Card?
Applying for a green card involves several stages, and each step comes with its own fees. Below is a breakdown of the main costs associated with applying for a 10-year green card.
Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
This form is the first step for those seeking a family-based green card. It is filed by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident who wishes to sponsor a family member. The fee for filing Form I-130 is $535.
Family-Based Green Card Application: If applying through a relative, the U.S. sponsor must file this petition, which starts the green card process.
The fee covers the processing of the petition and the necessary background checks.
Additional costs may be involved if the petitioner is required to submit supporting documents or evidence.
Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status)
This form is used by applicants who are already in the United States and want to adjust their status to that of a permanent resident. The fee for Form I-485 is $1,140, and this fee applies to most applicants. However, there are exceptions for specific groups, such as children or individuals who qualify for certain waivers.
Employment-Based Green Card: If applying through an employer, this step typically applies. You must submit Form I-485 to begin the adjustment process.
If you are already in the U.S. on another visa, this form allows you to switch to permanent resident status.
Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support)
This form is required for family-based applicants. It ensures that the person sponsoring you can financially support you once you arrive in the United States. There is no direct fee for submitting Form I-864, but the sponsor may have to provide supporting documentation proving their income level.
Biometrics Fee
Most green card applicants are required to attend a biometrics appointment, where they will have their fingerprints, photograph, and signature taken for background checks. The fee for the biometrics service is $85.
This fee is applicable to all applicants between the ages of 14 and 79.
The fee covers the cost of processing your biometric data and performing background security checks.
Medical Examination and Vaccination Fees
As part of the green card process, applicants must undergo a medical examination by an authorized civil surgeon. The cost of this examination varies but typically ranges from $200 to $500, depending on the doctor and location.
Vaccinations: Certain vaccinations may be required before the green card is approved. The cost of these vaccinations can add to the overall cost.
Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization)
While optional, many applicants choose to submit Form I-765 to request work authorization while their green card application is pending. The filing fee for this form is $410.
If approved, this document will allow you to work legally in the U.S. while waiting for your green card to arrive.
Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document)
If you need to travel outside the U.S. while your green card application is in process, you will need to apply for Advance Parole through Form I-131. The fee for this form is also $575.
This allows you to re-enter the U.S. without abandoning your green card application.
Immigrant Visa Application Fee (If Applying Outside the U.S.)
For individuals applying for a 10-year green card from outside the U.S., the process involves an immigrant visa application. The fee for this application is $325.
This step occurs after the Form I-130 has been approved, and the applicant will go through a U.S. embassy or consulate interview.
Additional Costs to Consider
Besides the official filing fees, there are other costs that may arise during the green card process:
Legal Fees: Many individuals hire an immigration lawyer to help navigate the complex process. Legal fees for green card applications typically range from $1,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case.
Translation Fees: If your documents are not in English, you may need to have them translated by a certified translator. Translation fees vary depending on the number of documents but typically cost around $20 to $50 per page.
Postage and Copying: Don’t forget to factor in the cost of mailing documents and making copies for your records. This is generally a small expense but can add up.
Total Estimated Cost of a 10-Year Green Card
Based on the fees outlined above, the total cost for applying for a 10-year green card in the U.S. can range from $1,800 to $10,000 or more, depending on the circumstances of the applicant and whether additional services like legal assistance are used.
For family-based applicants: You can expect to pay between $1,800 and $3,500 (excluding legal fees).
For employment-based applicants: You might pay between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on your situation.
For applicants applying from outside the U.S.: The costs may be higher due to visa fees and the need to attend an interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy.
Conclusion
While the costs associated with obtaining a 10-year green card can add up quickly, they are a necessary investment for those seeking permanent residency in the United States. From application forms to legal fees, understanding these expenses upfront will help you plan your budget and ensure a smoother application process. Always check the latest fee schedule on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website, as fees can change periodically.
If you are considering applying for a green card, it may also be a good idea to consult an immigration lawyer to navigate the process efficiently and minimize the risk of delays or mistakes. With proper planning and understanding of the fees involved, you can move forward in your journey toward becoming a permanent resident of the United States.
Related topics:
- Why Is My Green Card Interview Taking So Long?
- How Do I Get a Green Card?
- How Do I Know My Green Card Status?
