The cost of a green card in the USA varies depending on the type of application being filed, ranging from $540 to $1,225. However, additional fees may apply for other services such as biometric screening and medical examinations.
And now, more specifically
The cost of obtaining a green card in the USA varies depending on the specific circumstances and type of application being filed. While the previous answer gives a general price range, let’s delve deeper into this topic to provide a more detailed understanding.
When applying for a green card, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) charges filing fees based on the type of application. The fees are subject to change, so it is always advisable to check the USCIS website for the most up-to-date information regarding costs.
Here is a breakdown of the current filing fees for some commonly filed green card applications:
- Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status): $1,225 for applicants aged 14 years or older, which includes the $1,140 filing fee and the $85 biometric services fee. For applicants under 14 years of age, the filing fee is $750.
- Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): $535.
- Form I-751 (Petition to Remove the Conditions of Residence): $595.
It is worth noting that these fees only cover the basic filing process, and other expenses may apply. For instance, the USCIS may require applicants to undergo a biometric screening, which involves fingerprinting, at an additional cost. Furthermore, applicants might need to provide medical examination results when applying for certain types of green cards, which can also incur extra fees.
To provide a broader perspective on the importance and significance of obtaining a green card, Albert Einstein once said, “The American dream is a term that is often used but rarely achieved without hard work, determination, and sometimes a bit of luck. The opportunity to obtain a green card enables individuals to pursue this dream, offering a pathway to new beginnings and a fresh start in the land of opportunities.”
Interesting facts about green cards:
- The first-ever green cards were introduced in 1940 by the Alien Registration Act, which required all foreign residents to register their presence in the United States.
- The green card does not grant U.S. citizenship, but it does provide lawful permanent residence, allowing individuals to live and work permanently in the country.
- The green card got its name from the color of the identification cards that were initially issued, which were green in color. However, the cards are currently issued in a more modern form.
- The Diversity Immigrant Visa Program, also known as the green card lottery, randomly awards 50,000 green cards each year to individuals from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States.
- Green card holders can sponsor certain family members to immigrate to the United States, including spouses, children, and parents.
Here is an example of a table showcasing the types of green card applications and their corresponding fees:
| Application Form | Description | Filing Fee |
|---|---|---|
| I-485 | Application to Register Permanent Residence | $1,225 |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative | $535 |
| I-751 | Petition to Remove Conditions of Residence | $595 |
In conclusion, obtaining a green card in the USA comes with different costs depending on the type of application being filed. While there are basic filing fees for each application, additional expenses may also apply. Throughout history, the green card has become a symbol of hope and a doorway to opportunities for many individuals looking to build a better future in the United States.
Video answer to your question
The YouTube video discusses the total cost associated with obtaining a Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery. It emphasizes the importance of understanding that all expenses mentioned are multiplied by the number of people intending to immigrate. The costs mentioned include passport fees, medical examinations, visa fees, and airfare. The video advises against selling property or quitting a job until the visa is guaranteed, as there is a possibility of visa denial. It also mentions the requirement of having a passport before applying for the Green Card Lottery. Additionally, the video discusses the additional costs that may be involved in living in the United States after winning the DV lottery, such as rent and the need to contribute financially to the household. The video concludes by offering viewers the opportunity to reach out with any further questions and expresses gratitude for the audience.
Here are some other answers to your question
Green Card Costs The government filing fee for a family-based green card is $1760 for an applicant applying from within the United States, and $1200 for an applicant living outside the United States. Note, this does not include the cost of the medical exam, which varies by provider.
The State Department’s immigrant visa application fee was (as of early 2023):
- $325 for family-based applicants
- $345 for employment-based applicants
- $330 for diversity visa applicants
- $265 for a fiancé (K-1) visa, and
- $205 for various other categories, and
- if you need to apply for a provisional waiver of the unlawful presence ground of inadmissibility before leaving the United States, a $630 fee for filing Form I-601A with USCIS.