How much does it cost to be a legal immigrant 2024?

As an expert in the field of immigration law, I can provide you with a comprehensive overview of the costs associated with becoming a legal immigrant in the United States. It's important to note that the process and costs can vary significantly depending on the type of visa or immigration status one is seeking. Here's a detailed breakdown:

### Visa Application Fees


1. Diversity Visa (Green Card Lottery): This is a government fee of $10 for each application, regardless of the number of family members included.

2. Family-Sponsored Green Cards: The filing fee for an I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, is $535 as of my last update. Additional fees may apply for medical exams, consular fees, and other processing fees.

3. Employment-Based Green Cards: The costs can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the type of employment visa. For example, the I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, has a filing fee of $700.

### Attorney Fees

Hiring an immigration attorney can be a significant expense. The cost can vary widely based on the complexity of the case, the attorney's experience, and the geographic location. On average, you might expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 or more for a straightforward case. More complex cases or those involving appeals or court appearances could cost significantly more.

### Medical Examinations and Vaccinations

All immigrants must undergo a medical examination. The cost of this can vary, but it typically ranges from $100 to $200. Additional costs may be incurred for any required vaccinations.

### Travel Costs

If you are required to travel to a U.S. consulate or embassy for an interview or to attend a naturalization ceremony, you will need to cover your own travel expenses.

### **Translation and Document Preparation Fees**

Many documents must be translated into English, and there may be fees associated with obtaining copies of your birth certificate, marriage certificate, police clearance certificates, and other documents.

### Adjustment of Status Fees

If you are already in the U.S. and wish to adjust your status to that of a permanent resident, you will need to pay an additional fee. As of my last update, this fee was $1,225 for Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

### Naturalization Fees

For those who eventually wish to become U.S. citizens, the filing fee for Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, is $1,160.

### Miscellaneous Costs

There may be additional costs such as biometric services (fingerprinting), immigration bond fees, and costs associated with family reunification.

### Total Estimated Costs

Given the variability in the process, it's challenging to provide a precise total cost. However, considering the fees mentioned above, the total cost for a straightforward case without an attorney could be around $2,000 to $3,000. If an attorney is involved, the costs could easily exceed $5,000.

It's crucial to remember that these costs are subject to change, and it's always best to consult with an immigration attorney or the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for the most current and accurate information.

**Please note that this is a general overview and individual circumstances can significantly alter the costs and process.**

Just in filing fees for a Green Card, an immigrant can spend more than $1,000 to try to become a permanent legal resident. If they hire an immigration attorney, it could cost them thousands of dollars to be a legal resident, and if they desire, a U.S. citizen.Sep 21, 2014