Understanding green card fees is one of the most critical steps for immigrants planning to apply for permanent residence in the United States. Unlike temporary visas, a US Green Card involves multiple government fees, paid at different stages, depending on the type of application and where the applicant is located.
- What Is a US Green Card? (Quick Context)
- Green Card Fees Overview (2026 Updated)
- Green Card Fees for Adjustment of Status (Inside the US)
- Green Card Fees for Consular Processing (Outside the US)
- US Permanent Residence Cost by Green Card Category
- Total Green Card Fees (Comparison Table)
- Additional Costs Applicants Often Overlook
- Are Green Card Fees Refundable?
- Can Green Card Fees Be Waived or Reduced?
- Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)
- Final Guidance for Permanent Residence Applicants
Many applicants begin the process without a clear idea of the total US permanent residence cost, which often leads to budgeting problems, filing delays, or abandoned applications. This 2026 guide provides a clear, structured breakdown of green card fees, covering Adjustment of Status, consular processing, category-based differences, additional expenses, and common misconceptions.
What Is a US Green Card? (Quick Context)
A US Green Card grants an individual lawful permanent resident (LPR) status, allowing them to:
- Live permanently in the United States
- Work without visa sponsorship
- Travel internationally with fewer restrictions
- Apply for US citizenship after meeting eligibility requirements
Unlike non-immigrant visas, a green card is intended for long-term settlement. As a result, the application process is more detailed and involves higher overall costs.
For a broader comparison of permanent residence and citizenship, see:
https://www.usvisaintel.com/visa-types/green-card-vs-us-citizenship-key-differences-explained/
Green Card Fees Overview (2026 Updated)
Green card fees vary based on two main factors:
- Where you apply
- Inside the US (Adjustment of Status)
- Outside the US (Consular Processing)
- Which category you apply under
- Family-based
- Employment-based
- Diversity Visa (DV Lottery)
- Special immigrant categories
While exact amounts can differ, all applicants must pay official US government fees, plus several supporting costs that are often overlooked.
Green Card Fees for Adjustment of Status (Inside the US)
Adjustment of Status allows eligible applicants already in the US to apply for permanent residence without leaving the country. This is common for people on work, student, or family visas.
Form I-485 Filing Fee
Form I-485 is the core green card application.
- Purpose: Apply for permanent residence
- Fee (2026): Approximately USD 1,140–1,225, depending on age
- Who must pay: Each applicant filing separately
Children under a certain age and applicants in humanitarian categories may pay reduced fees.
Biometrics Fee
Biometrics involves fingerprinting, photographs, and identity verification.
- Fee: Usually USD 85
- Required for: Most applicants aged 14–78
- Purpose: Background and security checks
This fee is often bundled with the I-485 filing cost but remains a mandatory component.
Employment Authorization and Travel Documents
Most Adjustment of Status applicants apply for interim benefits while waiting for their green card.
Employment Authorization Document (EAD – Form I-765)
- Allows legal employment during processing
- Often included at no extra charge when filed with I-485
Advance Parole (Form I-131)
- Allows international travel while the application is pending
- Also commonly included when filed together
Policies can change, so applicants should confirm whether these forms are bundled or charged separately at the time of filing.
Green Card Fees for Consular Processing (Outside the US)
Applicants outside the United States usually apply through consular processing, coordinated by the National Visa Center (NVC) and a US embassy or consulate.
Immigrant Visa Application Fee
- Paid to: US Department of State (via NVC)
- Fee (2026): Around USD 325
- Purpose: Processing of the immigrant visa application
Affidavit of Support Fee (Form I-864)
This fee applies to family-based green cards and some employment-based cases where sponsorship is required.
- Fee: USD 120
- Who pays: The sponsoring petitioner
- Purpose: Financial sponsorship review
USCIS Immigrant Fee
This fee is paid after visa approval but before traveling to the US.
- Fee (2026): USD 220
- Purpose: Production and mailing of the physical green card
Failure to pay this fee can delay issuance of the green card after arrival.
US Permanent Residence Cost by Green Card Category
Family-Based Green Cards
- Sponsorship by a US citizen or permanent resident
- Fees include I-130 petition costs (separate from I-485 or consular fees)
- Often involve Affidavit of Support charges
Employment-Based Green Cards
- Sponsored by a US employer
- May include labor certification costs (usually employer-paid)
- Applicant still pays personal USCIS filing fees
Diversity Visa (DV Lottery)
- Lower government filing costs
- Requires payment at the interview stage
- Medical exams and travel costs can still be significant
Special Immigrant Categories
- Refugees, asylees, certain humanitarian applicants
- Many fees reduced or waived
- Additional eligibility documentation required
Total Green Card Fees (Comparison Table)
| Application Method | Government Fees (USD) | Typical Additional Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Adjustment of Status | $1,225–1,400 | Medical, photos |
| Consular Processing | $665–865 | Travel, courier |
| DV Lottery | ~$330 | Medical, interview |
| Humanitarian Categories | Reduced | Case-specific |
Additional Costs Applicants Often Overlook
Beyond official filing fees, applicants should budget for:
- Medical examination (USD 100–500 depending on country)
- Vaccinations required for immigration
- Police clearance certificates
- Document translations and notarization
- Courier, travel, and accommodation expenses
These can easily add USD 300–1,000+ to the total cost.
Are Green Card Fees Refundable?
In most situations, green card fees are non-refundable.
- If the application is denied → Fees are not returned
- If the application is withdrawn → Fees are not refunded
- If processing method changes → New fees may apply
Applicants should confirm eligibility carefully before submitting payments.
Can Green Card Fees Be Waived or Reduced?
USCIS allows fee waivers in limited circumstances, including:
- Certain humanitarian categories
- Low-income applicants meeting eligibility criteria
- Refugees and asylum-based applicants
Fee waivers generally do not apply to employment-based or most family-based green card cases.
Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)
How much does a US green card cost in 2026?
Most applicants spend between USD 1,200 and USD 3,000, depending on category and location.
Are green card fees the same for everyone?
No. Fees vary based on age, category, and application method.
Do children pay full green card fees?
Children often pay reduced fees, depending on age and filing type.
Is the green card fee paid every year?
No. Most fees are one-time payments per application.
What is the cheapest way to apply for a green card?
Diversity Visa and certain humanitarian categories typically have the lowest government fees.
Final Guidance for Permanent Residence Applicants
Understanding green card fees before filing is essential for a smooth and realistic immigration plan. Permanent residence involves multiple payments over time, not a single upfront cost. Applicants who budget carefully, confirm fee requirements, and verify eligibility before submitting payments are far less likely to encounter delays or financial setbacks.
For a broader reference covering all US visa-related costs, see:
https://www.usvisaintel.com/visa-fees/us-visa-fees-explained-all-categories-complete-cost-breakdown-for-first-time-applicants/
Immigrants who approach the green card process with financial clarity and accurate information are best positioned for a successful outcome in 2026.
