Last Update May, 24, 2025.
Adjustment of Status.
USCIS Marriage Green Card Fee Calculator
Subject to change. Check USCIS.gov for most recent fees.
The Marriage Green Card Process (Adjustment of Status): Forms and Fees
When applying for a marriage-based green card, there are several USCIS forms that you might need to submit. Let’s examine each form and understand its purpose and cost:
- Form I-130: Petition for Alien Relative ($675). This is the foundational form for your marriage-based green card journey. The I-130 establishes the legitimate relationship between the U.S. citizen spouse (petitioner) and the foreign national spouse (beneficiary). This form essentially proves that you have a genuine marriage and that your spouse has the right to petition for you. The $675 fee is mandatory and cannot be waived, as it’s the starting point of your immigration process. If filing Form I-130 alone online, the fee is $625. But if submitting the marriage package altogether, it is normally recommended to submit it by mail.
- Form I-485: Application to Register Permanent Residence ($1,440) Once the I-130 is filed, the foreign spouse living in the United States can submit Form I-485, also known as the Adjustment of Status application. This substantial fee of $1,440 covers the actual process of transitioning from a temporary status to permanent residency. The form is comprehensive and includes biometric screening and the required medical examination documentation.
- Form I-765: Application for Employment Authorization ($260) While your green card application is pending, you might want to work in the United States. The Employment Authorization Document (EAD), obtained through Form I-765, allows you to work legally during this period. At $260, this is an optional but valuable investment for those who don’t want to put their careers on hold during the application process, which can take several months. Note that the I-765 fee is higher for non-adjustment based work permits.
- Form I-131: Application for Travel Document ($630) Similar to the work permit, the Advance Parole document (obtained through Form I-131) is crucial if you need to travel internationally while your green card application is pending. Without this $630 document, leaving the U.S. during the application process could result in your application being considered abandoned.
Please remember that additional government fees may apply if additional applications are needed, such as for 245(i) applicants, I-601 waiver recipients, and if additional family members are being included.
Strategic Planning and Cost Considerations
The total cost can vary significantly depending on which forms you need. If you file all four forms, you’re looking at a total of $3,005 in USCIS fees alone. However, there are some strategic considerations:
- Some applicants might not need the I-765 if they don’t plan to work immediately
- Those who don’t plan to travel internationally while their application is pending can skip the I-131
- Certain low-income applicants might be eligible for fee waivers for some forms
Beyond the Basic Fees
Remember that these USCIS fees are just one part of the total cost. Other expenses might include:
- Medical examination fees (required for I-485)
- Legal representation if you choose to hire an attorney
- Document translation services if your documents are not in English
- Photocopying and mailing costs
- Passport-style photos
Making Informed Decisions
Before starting your application process, consider:
- Your timeline and urgency
- Your financial situation and ability to pay the fees
- Whether you need work authorization or travel documents
- The complexity of your case and whether you need legal assistance
The fee calculator provided above helps you understand exactly which forms you need and their associated costs. This allows you to budget appropriately and avoid surprises during the application process.
Final Thoughts
While the fees for a marriage-based green card may seem substantial, understanding them helps you plan better. Remember that USCIS fees are subject to change, so it’s always wise to verify the current fees on the official USCIS website before submitting your applications. Additionally, ensure that you’re filing the correct forms for your situation, as filing incorrect forms can result in lost time and money.
The investment in properly filing your marriage-based green card application is significant, but it’s an important step toward building your life together in the United States. By understanding these fees upfront and planning accordingly, you can navigate the process more smoothly and avoid unnecessary delays or complications in your immigration journey.
Remember to consult with an immigration attorney if you have specific questions about your case, as individual circumstances can affect which forms you need to file and whether you might be eligible for any fee waivers or special considerations.
