USCIS Filing Fee Calculator
Estimate your total USCIS filing fees by selecting the forms you plan to submit. Please note that fees are subject to change by USCIS, and this calculator provides an estimate based on commonly published fees.
Estimated Total USCIS Fees:
Understanding USCIS Filing Fees: A Comprehensive Guide
Navigating the U.S. immigration system involves various steps, and a crucial part of this process is understanding and paying the required fees to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). These fees are essential for processing applications, petitions, and requests for immigration benefits.
What Are USCIS Fees?
USCIS is primarily funded by fees collected from applicants and petitioners. These fees cover the operational costs of the agency, including processing applications, conducting interviews, performing background checks, and issuing immigration documents. Without these fees, USCIS would not be able to provide the services necessary for legal immigration to the United States.
Why Do Fees Vary?
The cost of filing an application or petition with USCIS is not uniform. Fees vary significantly depending on the type of form being filed, the immigration benefit sought, and sometimes even the applicant's age or specific circumstances. For instance, a petition for a family member (Form I-130) has a different fee than an application for naturalization (Form N-400) because the administrative effort and resources required for each process differ.
Common Forms and Their Purposes
Here's a brief overview of some common USCIS forms and their general purposes, along with their associated fees (as reflected in the calculator, but always check the official USCIS website for the most current information):
- Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative ($525): Filed by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to establish a relationship with an eligible alien relative who wishes to immigrate to the United States.
- Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status ($1,225): Used by individuals already in the U.S. to apply for lawful permanent resident status (a Green Card). This fee typically includes biometrics.
- Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization ($410): Filed by non-citizens to request permission to work in the United States.
- Form I-131, Application for Travel Document ($575): Used to apply for a re-entry permit, refugee travel document, or advance parole document.
- Form N-400, Application for Naturalization ($725): The application for eligible lawful permanent residents to become U.S. citizens. This fee typically includes biometrics.
- Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card ($455): Used to replace a lost, stolen, mutilated, or expired Green Card.
- Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker ($460): Filed by employers on behalf of nonimmigrant workers to come to the U.S. temporarily.
- Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker ($700): Filed by employers on behalf of foreign workers to become lawful permanent residents.
- Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence ($680): Filed by conditional permanent residents to remove the conditions on their residence and obtain a 10-year Green Card. This fee typically includes biometrics.
Biometrics Services Fee
Many forms, such as the I-485 and N-400, include the biometrics services fee within their total filing cost. Biometrics involves collecting fingerprints, photographs, and a signature to conduct background checks and verify identity. For some standalone applications or services, a separate biometrics fee may be required.
Fee Waivers and Reductions
USCIS offers fee waivers for certain forms and situations, primarily for individuals who can demonstrate an inability to pay. Eligibility for a fee waiver is based on specific income guidelines or receipt of certain means-tested public benefits. It's crucial to check the USCIS website or consult with an immigration attorney to determine if you qualify for a fee waiver or reduced fee.
Important Considerations
- Fees Change: USCIS fees are not static and can change periodically. Always refer to the official USCIS website (uscis.gov) or the specific form instructions for the most up-to-date fee information before filing.
- Non-Refundable: Generally, USCIS filing fees are non-refundable, even if your application is denied or withdrawn.
- Separate Payments: If you are filing multiple forms, you may need to submit separate payments for each form, or a single payment covering all fees, depending on USCIS instructions. Always follow the specific instructions for your application package.
- Legal Advice: This calculator provides an estimate of fees. It is not a substitute for legal advice. For complex immigration matters or to ensure accurate fee calculation for your specific case, it is highly recommended to consult with an experienced immigration attorney.
Using a calculator like this can help you budget for your immigration journey, but always double-check with official USCIS resources to ensure you have the most current and accurate information.