Becoming a naturalized citizen or a permanent resident of the United States is not only a long and tedious process, yet also an expensive one. The entire process could cost thousands of dollars.
When applying with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), different fees apply. The filing fee relies upon the kind of residency application. An application for a nonimmigrant status is usually less expensive than an immigrant petition.
There are different ways to immigrate to the U.S. In all cases the government requires applicants to go through a medical test and get certain vaccinations before entering the country. The medical examination cost varies between $200 to $400 depending on the service provider. If the applicant has a negative immigration history or a criminal record, the applicant will have to submit additional forms and documents which will make the process more expensive.
How much does it cost to get a green card through marriage 2021?
As of February 2021, the cost of applying for a marriage-based green card in the United States is $1760. However, these fees may be subject to change.
Form I-130: $535
Form I-130 also referred to as Petition for Alien Relative, is meant to establish a valid relationship exists between the applicant and the petitioning spouse. Filing the I-130 form is usually the first step in applying for a marriage green card with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The USCIS will request certain documents to prove the applicant’s marriage to the U.S. citizen spouse and other documents proving that both parties are not engaged in other marriages.
Form I-485: $1,140
Another essential form is the form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status which costs $1,140. Form I-485 aims to establish the green card eligibility of the applicant. Along with the I-485 application, the applicant also needs to submit proof of entry into the U.S.
The U.S. citizen spouse should also provide proof that he/she is capable of sponsoring the applicant financially. This proof may include federal tax returns, pay stubs, or any other relevant financial statements.
Biometrics Appointment: $85
The applicant will need to attend the biometric appointment which is to help the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) check for criminal records if any. At the appointment, fingerprints and photos will be taken and sent to the FBI for further verification. This appointment usually takes less than 20 minutes but is an important part of the marriage-based green card application journey.
How many years do you have to be married to get a marriage-based green card?
To qualify for a green card under the marriage category, the couple must be married for at least 2 years. The conditional green card is valid for 2 years and will need to be reviewed right before it expires.
To renew the green card, the couple will need to prove to be still married or file a waiver explaining the circumstances.
The process is complicated and burdensome; therefore having an expert is the key to avoiding stress and lengthy processes. We have assisted many families in obtaining their green cards successfully and will be happy to assist your loved ones as well.