The cost for Green Card filing fees and associated expenses varies significantly depending on the specific application process, with total mandatory government fees ranging from approximately $1,340 to $3,005. These costs do not include potential legal fees or other miscellaneous expenses.
Mandatory Government Fees for Green Cards
The overall cost includes various fees charged by government agencies and necessary related expenses. It's important to note that the specific fees you pay will depend on your unique immigration pathway.
Here's a breakdown of the typical mandatory government fees for a Green Card, including explicit filing fees and other required costs:
| Fee Component | Scenario 1 (Total $3,005) | Scenario 2 (Total $1,340) |
|---|---|---|
| State Department Processing | Not required | $325 |
| USCIS Immigrant Fee | Not required | $235 |
| Medical Examination | *Varies | *Varies |
| Total Mandatory Government Fees | $3,005 | $1,340 |
Key points regarding these fees:
- State Department Processing: This fee typically applies to individuals applying for a Green Card through consular processing from outside the United States.
- USCIS Immigrant Fee: This fee is required for most individuals who receive an immigrant visa abroad and are coming to the U.S. to become a lawful permanent resident.
- Medical Examination: A medical examination by an authorized physician is mandatory for all Green Card applicants. The cost for this examination is variable and paid directly to the physician's office.
- Total Mandatory Government Fees: The "Total" amounts listed represent the sum of all required government fees and the medical examination, depending on the specific application scenario. The higher total ($3,005) generally encompasses a broader set of USCIS application fees (such as those for adjusting status from within the U.S.), while the lower total ($1,340) primarily covers fees for applicants processing their Green Card abroad, along with the USCIS Immigrant Fee and medical exam.
For more detailed information on Green Card costs, you can refer to resources like Boundless Immigration.
