The fee immigrants pay to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) when applying for a green card– a process that uses Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, varies based on individual factors like age, status, and needs. Total cost immigrants pay for filing Form I-485 and related expenses range from zero to $1,225.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) directs immigrants who seek a green card to begin the process by determining the basis of immigration. While a number of immigrant categories exist, most immigrants who become eligible for green cards do so via a family member’s petition or a petition submitted by an employer. Other categories include refugee or asylum status or other special provisions.
Filing Form I-485 requires visa availability. In cases where an immigrant can obtain a visa immediately, green card applicants can file Form I-485 along with petitions from family members or employers– referred to as “concurrent filing.” In most cases, however, individuals receive an approved petition from a family member or employer before filing the green card application.
When it’s the appropriate time in terms of petition approval and visa availability, immigrants filing Form I-485 can expect possible additional fees for any necessary biometrics requirements– fingerprinting and other identification features. The biometrics requirement applies to most adults but excludes individuals who are 79 years old or older or 14 years old or younger. USCIS currently charges $85 for the biometrics service requirement, but the agency also makes fee waiver requests available for those who qualify.
USCIS breaks down Form I-485 and related expenses with the following chart:
| Applicant | Form I-485 Fee | Biometric Fee | Total Cost |
| Under 14 and filing with the I-485 application of at least one parent | $750 | $0 | $750 |
| Under 14 and not filing with the I-485 application of at least one parent | $1,140 | $0 | $1,140 |
| Age 14 – 78 | $1,140 | $85 | $1,225 |
| Age 79 or older | $1,140 | $0 | $1,140 |
| Filing Form I-485 based on having been admitted to the United States as a refugee | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Filing as a refugee under section 209(a) of the INA | $0 | $0 | $0 |
USCIS implemented the current pricing structure on December 23rd last year. Applicants paying the fees should make checks payable to the Department of Homeland Security.
