What is the I-485 filing fee in 2026?

The I-485 filing fee is $1,440 for adults (14+) and $950 for children under 14 filing with a parent. Biometrics are included in this fee.

Is there a cheaper way to get a green card?

Consular processing (immigrant visa abroad) can sometimes be cheaper than Adjustment of Status because you may not need to file I-765 or I-131. However, you still pay an immigrant visa fee ($325) and a USCIS Immigrant Fee ($235) after entry, plus medical exam costs. The savings are modest.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Green Card in 2026?

Q: How much does it cost to get a green card in 2026?

For a single adult applying through Adjustment of Status (I-485), USCIS fees alone total $2,890: $1,440 (I-485) + $820 (I-765 work permit) + $630 (I-131 travel document). Add medical (~$300) and attorney fees ($1,500–$5,000) and the all-in cost is typically $4,700–$8,190.

Getting a green card in 2026 costs more than most applicants expect. The USCIS filing fee (I-485) is $1,440 for adults — but that is just one line item in a longer cost list. When you add the work permit, travel document, medical exam, and attorney fees, the total for a single adult typically ranges from $4,700 to $8,200. This guide gives you the full picture so you can budget accurately before you file.

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Not legal advice. Always verify fees at USCIS.gov before submitting payment.

Green Card Costs by Pathway — 2026

1. Adjustment of Status (Already in the US)

Cost Item	Required?	Amount
I-485 Filing Fee (adult)	Required	$1,440
I-765 Work Permit (EAD) — Initial	Highly recommended	$820
I-131 Advance Parole	If traveling abroad	$630
Medical Exam (Form I-693)	Required	$200–$500
Translation fees (if needed)	If documents not in English	$50–$300
Attorney fees	Optional but recommended	$1,500–$5,000
Realistic Total (single adult)		$4,640–$8,690

2. Consular Processing (From Abroad)

Cost Item	Required?	Amount
I-130 Petition (filed in US)	Required	$675
Immigrant Visa Fee (DS-260)	Required	$325
USCIS Immigrant Fee (after entry)	Required	$235
Medical Exam (abroad)	Required	$200–$500
Attorney fees	Optional but recommended	$1,500–$4,000
Realistic Total		$2,935–$5,735

Key difference: Adjustment of Status costs more upfront but allows you to stay in the US and work while waiting. Consular processing is cheaper but requires the applicant to remain abroad until visa approval.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a green card cost in 2026?

For Adjustment of Status, USCIS fees for a single adult total $2,890 (I-485 + I-765 + I-131). Add a medical exam (~$300) and attorney fees ($1,500–$5,000) and the realistic all-in total is $4,700–$8,200.

What is the cheapest way to get a green card?

The cheapest path depends on your situation. Immediate relatives of US citizens pay the lowest fees because their visa is always current. If you qualify for a fee waiver (income ≤ 150% FPG), some concurrent forms can be filed for free.

Are green card fees refundable?

No. USCIS fees are non-refundable even if your application is denied. This makes it critical to verify eligibility with a qualified attorney before filing.

Do children pay full green card fees?

Children under 14 who file I-485 concurrently with a parent pay a reduced fee of $950 instead of $1,440. Children 14 or older pay the full adult fee of $1,440.