I-485 Green Card Cost Calculator
Select your situation below. All 2026 USCIS fees are pre-loaded.
Concurrent / Optional Filings
Full Cost Breakdown
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| Estimated Total |
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Full Green Card Cost in 2026 — What to Expect
A green card through Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) is one of the most significant immigration applications you can file. The USCIS filing fees are just part of the total cost. Here is a realistic breakdown of everything you may need to pay.
Mandatory USCIS Fees
| Form | Purpose | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| I-485 | Adjustment of Status (adult) | $1,440 |
| I-485 | Adjustment of Status (child under 14, with parent) | $950 |
| I-765 | Work Permit (EAD) — Initial | $820 |
| I-131 | Advance Parole (Travel Document) | $630 |
| I-130 | Petition for Alien Relative (if applicable) | $675 |
Additional Costs
- Medical exam (Form I-693): $200–$500 per person, paid to a USCIS-designated civil surgeon. Not included in USCIS fees.
- Translation costs: $50–$200 per document if your foreign documents are not in English.
- Immigration attorney fees: $1,500–$5,000 for a straightforward case; higher for complex situations.
- Passport photos: $15–$20 (required for certain forms).
Step-by-Step: Adjustment of Status Process
- Confirm eligibility — You must be present in the US and have an available visa number (immediate relatives are always current).
- Get a medical exam — Visit a USCIS-designated civil surgeon and complete Form I-693.
- Gather supporting documents — Birth certificate, passport, I-94, prior immigration documents, tax returns, sponsor's Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support).
- File your package — Mail I-485 (+ I-765, I-131, I-130 if applicable) to the appropriate USCIS Lockbox facility.
- Attend biometrics appointment — USCIS will mail you an appointment notice. Biometrics are now included in the base fee.
- Attend interview — Most family-based cases require an interview at a local USCIS field office.
- Receive decision — USCIS will mail your green card if approved.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a green card cost in 2026?
For a single adult, USCIS fees alone are $1,440 (I-485). With a concurrent I-765 ($820) and I-131 ($630), the total USCIS portion is $2,890. Add medical (~$300) and attorney fees ($1,500–$5,000) and the all-in cost is typically $4,500–$8,000 for one adult applicant.
Is the I-485 fee refundable?
No. USCIS filing fees are non-refundable, even if your application is denied or withdrawn. This is why it is critical to ensure you are eligible before filing.
Do I need a medical exam?
Yes. Form I-693 (Medical Examination) is required for all I-485 applicants. You must see a USCIS-designated civil surgeon. The cost ($200–$500) is not included in the USCIS filing fee.
What happens if I travel without Advance Parole?
Leaving the US while your I-485 is pending without a valid Advance Parole (I-131) or H-1B/L-1 visa may be considered abandonment of your application. Always consult an attorney before traveling.
Can children under 14 get a fee discount?
Yes. Children under 14 who file their I-485 concurrently with a parent pay a reduced fee of $950 instead of $1,440. The child must be included on the same application package as the parent.
How long does I-485 processing take?
Processing times vary. Immediate relatives of US citizens can expect 8–24 months. Employment-based cases may take years depending on the category and country of birth. Check current times at USCIS.gov/check-case-status.