Quick Answer — California Immigration Attorney Fees
$250–$450/hr
Typical hourly rate
$1,800–$5,500
Green card (AOS)
$1,800–$5,500
H1B petition
$6,000+
Deportation defense
Immigration attorney fees in California vary by case type, complexity, and location within the state. Los Angeles-area attorneys typically charge at the upper end of the ranges below. This guide gives you real local fee estimates so you can budget accurately and compare quotes.
Know Your USCIS Fees First (Separate from Attorney Fees)
Open USCIS Fee Calculator →Immigration Attorney Fees in California — 2026
| Case Type | California Fee Range |
|---|---|
| I-130 Family Petition (simple) | $600–$1,800 |
| Green Card — Full AOS Package | $1,800–$5,500 |
| H1B Petition (new or transfer) | $1,800–$5,500 |
| K-1 Fiance Visa + Green Card | $3,500–$9,000 |
| N-400 Naturalization | $600–$1,800 |
| I-751 Remove Conditions | $900–$2,800 |
| Asylum Application | $2,500–$12,000 |
| Deportation / Removal Defense | $6,000–$30,000+ |
| Hourly consultation rate | $250–$450/hour |
Fee ranges reflect typical California immigration attorney rates in 2026. Los Angeles area attorneys typically charge 15-30% above these ranges. Always get a written fee agreement.
Finding an Immigration Attorney in California
California State Bar — Lawyer Referral Service
The California state bar provides verified attorney referrals. All attorneys on the list are licensed and in good standing. Search at the state bar website or call their referral line for immigration specialists.
AILA CA Chapter — American Immigration Lawyers Association
AILA has a California chapter with a member directory. AILA attorneys specialize exclusively in immigration law. Use AILA.org/find-an-immigration-lawyer to search by state.
Free Immigration Legal Aid in California
If cost is a concern, California has several nonprofit immigration legal services organizations for low-income immigrants. Search lsc.gov for local legal aid organizations or contact CLINIC for accredited representatives near you.
USCIS Fees Are Separate from Attorney Fees
Immigration attorney fees are in addition to government USCIS filing fees. For example, a California immigration attorney might charge $2,500 for an I-485 green card application — but the USCIS filing fee for an adult is an additional $1,440. Your total cost is attorney fee + USCIS fee + medical exam ($200-500). Use our calculator to see all government fees.