Obtaining a new Green Card, whether for the first time or as a replacement, involves several costs and processes that applicants must be aware of. This article breaks down the various fees associated with getting a new Green Card, the process involved, and some tips to manage these costs effectively.
Understanding the Green Card
A Green Card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, allows individuals to live and work permanently in the United States. It is an essential document for those who have immigrated to the U.S. and wish to establish permanent residency.
Initial Application Costs
When you apply for a Green Card, several costs are involved. These can vary depending on the specific category under which you are applying. The main categories include family-sponsored, employment-based, and diversity lottery.
Filing Fees
The primary cost associated with obtaining a Green Card is the filing fee for Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. As of the most recent update, the filing fee is $1,140. This fee applies to most applicants aged 14 to 78.
Biometric Services Fee
In addition to the filing fee, applicants aged 14 to 78 are required to pay an $85 biometric services fee. This fee covers the cost of fingerprinting, photographing, and capturing other biometric data required by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Medical Examination Fees
Applicants must undergo a medical examination by a USCIS-approved doctor. The cost of this medical examination can vary widely depending on the doctor’s fees and the location, but it generally ranges from $200 to $500.
Additional Fees for Certain Categories
Certain categories may have additional fees. For example, employment-based applicants may need to pay for a labor certification, and those applying through the diversity lottery will need to pay an additional fee if they win.
Renewal and Replacement Costs
Green Cards are typically valid for ten years. If your card is about to expire or has already expired, you will need to apply for a renewal. Similarly, if your Green Card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you will need to apply for a replacement.
Form I-90 Filing Fee
To renew or replace your Green Card, you will need to file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. The filing fee for Form I-90 is $455.
Biometric Services Fee for Renewal or Replacement
As with the initial application, you will also need to pay an $85 biometric services fee when renewing or replacing your Green Card, bringing the total cost to $540.
see also: How to Get U.S. Residency Through Investment?
Costs for Conditional Residents
Conditional residents, typically those who obtained their Green Card through marriage or as an entrepreneur, are issued a card valid for two years. They must file a petition to remove the conditions on their residence before the card expires.
Filing Fee for Form I-751
To remove conditions on residence for those who obtained their Green Card through marriage, you must file Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence. The filing fee for Form I-751 is $595, plus an $85 biometric services fee, totaling $680.
Filing Fee for Form I-829
For entrepreneurs, the petition to remove conditions involves filing Form I-829, Petition by Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions. The filing fee for Form I-829 is $3,750, plus the $85 biometric services fee, totaling $3,835.
Additional Potential Costs
Several additional costs can arise throughout the process of obtaining, renewing, or replacing a Green Card. These costs can include legal fees, translation services, and travel expenses.
Legal Fees
While it is possible to apply for a Green Card without legal assistance, many applicants choose to hire an immigration lawyer to help navigate the complex process. Legal fees for Green Card applications can range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s rates.
Translation Services
If your documents are not in English, you will need to have them translated. The cost for translation services can vary but typically ranges from $20 to $40 per page.
Travel Expenses
If you are required to attend an interview or appointment at a USCIS office, you may need to factor in travel expenses. This can include transportation, accommodation, and meals if the USCIS office is not in your local area.
Fee Waivers and Reductions
USCIS offers fee waivers and reductions for certain applicants who demonstrate an inability to pay the standard fees.
Fee Waiver for Form I-912
Applicants who meet specific income guidelines or who can demonstrate financial hardship may be eligible for a fee waiver by filing Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver. This waiver can cover the filing fee and biometric services fee for various applications, including Form I-485 and Form I-90.
Reduced Fee for Form I-942
Certain applicants with household incomes between 150% and 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines may be eligible for a reduced fee by filing Form I-942, Request for Reduced Fee. This reduction applies to the Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, and reduces the fee from $640 to $320, plus the $85 biometric services fee.
Conclusion
Obtaining a new Green Card involves several costs, including filing fees, biometric services fees, medical examination fees, and potential additional costs such as legal fees and translation services. Understanding these costs and planning accordingly can help ensure a smoother application process. Additionally, applicants who face financial difficulties may be eligible for fee waivers or reductions to help manage these expenses. Being well-informed about the costs and options available can make the journey to obtaining a Green Card more manageable and less stressful.
