If you need to renew or replace your green card, filing Form I-90 is an important step. Before you apply, it’s essential to understand the total cost, how to pay, and whether you may qualify for a fee waiver.
Many applicants are unsure about the exact fee or assume there are hidden charges. The good news is that USCIS has simplified the fee structure in recent years.
Form I-90 costs about $415 when filed online or $465 by mail, and some applicants may qualify for a fee waiver or pay no fee at all.
How Much Does Form I-90 Cost in 2026?
Form I-90 costs about $415 online and $465 by mail, with biometrics included in the total fee.
The cost of filing Form I-90 depends on how you submit your application:
- Online filing: ~$415
- Paper (mail) filing: ~$465
USCIS offers a lower fee for online applications, making it the more affordable and convenient option for most applicants.
Form I-90 Fee Breakdown
The Form I-90 fee includes the application cost, and there is no separate biometrics fee.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
| Filing Type | Total Cost |
|---|---|
| Online filing | $415 |
| Paper filing | $465 |
| Biometrics | Included |
There are no hidden charges beyond the listed fee.
Is There a Biometrics Fee for Form I-90?
No, USCIS no longer charges a separate biometrics fee for Form I-90.
Previously, applicants had to pay an additional biometrics fee (around $85). However, USCIS has now included biometrics in the main filing fee.
When Is Form I-90 Free? (Fee Exemptions)
Form I-90 may be free if USCIS made an error or if you never received your green card.
In certain situations, you do not need to pay any fee:
USCIS Error on Your Green Card
If your green card contains incorrect information due to a USCIS mistake (such as a misspelled name), you can request a replacement at no cost.
Green Card Not Delivered
If USCIS mailed your card but it was returned as undeliverable—and you did not move—you may qualify for a free replacement.
Form I-90 Fee Waiver (Who Qualifies?)
You may qualify for a fee waiver if you have low income, receive public benefits, or face financial hardship.
USCIS allows eligible applicants to request a fee waiver using Form I-912.
Income-Based Eligibility
Your household income must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty level.
Means-Tested Benefits
You may qualify if you receive benefits such as:
- Medicaid
- SNAP (food assistance)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Financial Hardship
You may also qualify if you can show:
- Medical expenses
- Job loss
- Unexpected financial difficulties
Supporting documents are required to prove eligibility.
Important Rules for Fee Waivers
To request a fee waiver, you must file Form I-90 by mail and include Form I-912 with supporting documents.
- Fee waivers are not available for online filing
- You must submit your request by mail
- Include proper documentation
- Some fees may not be waivable under recent rules
How to Pay the Form I-90 Fee
You can pay Form I-90 fees online using a card or bank account, or by mail using check, money order, or payment forms.
If Filing Online
- Credit card
- Debit card
- Bank account (ACH transfer)
If Filing by Mail
- Personal check
- Money order
- Cashier’s check
- Credit card (using Form G-1450)
Make all payments payable to: U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Payment Rules You Must Follow
USCIS will reject your application if the fee is incorrect or missing.
Keep these rules in mind:
- Fees are non-refundable
- Pay the exact amount
- Use correct payment methods
- Do not combine payments for multiple forms
Even a small mistake can result in your application being rejected.
Common Fee Mistakes to Avoid
Common mistakes include paying the wrong fee, missing payment forms, or sending incorrect payment methods.
Avoid these common issues:
- Paying an outdated or incorrect fee
- Forgetting to include payment authorization forms
- Using the wrong payment type
- Sending your application to the wrong address
Double-check everything before submitting your application.
Should You File Form I-90 Online or by Mail?
Filing Form I-90 online is cheaper, faster, and reduces errors compared to mailing your application.
Online Filing Benefits
- Lower cost
- Faster processing
- Fewer errors
Mail Filing Considerations
- Required if requesting a fee waiver
- May take longer
- More prone to errors
For most applicants, online filing is the better option.
FAQ on Form I-90 Fees
Can I pay Form I-90 in installments?
No, USCIS requires full payment at the time of filing.
Is the Form I-90 fee refundable?
No, USCIS fees are non-refundable, even if your application is denied or rejected.
Can I use a fee waiver if filing online?
No, fee waivers are only available for paper filings.
What happens if I pay the wrong fee?
USCIS may reject your application, and you will need to resubmit it with the correct fee.
Do I need to pay again if my application is rejected?
Yes, if your application is rejected (not accepted), you must submit a new application with the correct fee.
Start Your Form I-90 Application Today
Understanding the fees helps you avoid delays and unexpected issues. Filing Form I-90 correctly the first time can save time and money.
Start your application today and choose the filing method that works best for you.
