Costs Associated with Immigration Applications: What to Budget For
When preparing to apply for a U.S. visa, green card, or citizenship, it’s important to understand that the government filing fee is just one part of the total cost. The full process can include expenses for forms, legal representation, travel, translations, and more — and these can add up quickly if you’re not prepared.
At Twin Cities Immigration Law, we believe transparency is key. Here’s what you should expect when budgeting for your immigration journey.
1. Government Filing Fees
Every immigration application begins with a USCIS filing fee. These fees vary depending on the form type and category.
The most up-to-date list of all government filing fees can be found on the official USCIS Forms & Fees page
A few examples:
Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization): Currently between $380–$760, depending on your age and how you file (online vs. paper). (One Percent for America
Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): $625 when filed online and $675 by mail.
Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status): $1,440 for most applicants (as of April 2024 fee update).
Form I-129F (Fiancé(e) Visa): $675.
Keep in mind that fees are non-refundable, even if your application is denied. Submitting the correct fee amount is crucial — using outdated fee information can lead to automatic rejection.
2. Consular and Visa Processing Fees
If you’re applying for a visa from outside the United States, you’ll likely also pay Department of State fees.
Immigrant visa application fee: $325 (for most family and employment-based categories)
Affidavit of Support processing fee: $120
Diversity Visa lottery fee: $330
See the full breakdown at the U.S. Department of State Visa Fee Table
3. Required Supporting Costs
In addition to filing fees, most applicants must cover secondary or supporting costs, such as:
Medical exams: Typically range from $200–$500 depending on your doctor and location.
Translations & document certifications: Around $20–$50 per page for certified translations.
Travel costs: For interviews abroad or domestic appointments, applicants should plan for airfare, lodging, and time off work.
Passport photos & biometrics: Expect $15–$30 for professional photos and biometric fees (included in many USCIS filings).
Courier or mailing fees: Secure mailing or shipping for sensitive immigration documents.
These “hidden” costs can add hundreds of dollars to your total, so it’s important to include them in your plan.
4. Premium Processing or Expedited Requests
Some employment-based applications allow for premium processing, which guarantees faster review (usually within 15 days).
Premium Processing Fee: Currently $2,805 (for Form I-129 and certain Form I-140 categories). (USCIS Premium Processing
5. Legal Representation & Professional Assistance
Hiring an immigration attorney is not required, but it’s often the best investment you can make.
Attorneys ensure that your application is accurate, timely, and complete, reducing the risk of rejection or delay.
Many cases (especially family petitions, marriage-based green cards, or citizenship filings) can be handled on a flat-fee basis, providing predictability.
At Twin Cities Immigration Law, we offer clear, upfront pricing — so you always know what your total costs will be before we begin.
Our firm’s flat-fee model eliminates uncertainty and helps clients budget confidently, with no surprise invoices later.
6. Planning Ahead
To avoid financial stress during your application process:
✅ Review all USCIS and Department of State fee schedules before filing.
✅ Keep a small contingency fund for unexpected requests (for example, Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or document re-submissions).
✅ Consider the timeline of your process — if you’ll need travel, medical exams, or renewals later, those costs may repeat.
Immigration is an investment in your future. Proper budgeting ensures you can move forward without unnecessary delays or disruptions.
The Bottom Line
Understanding and preparing for the true costs of immigration can help you avoid unexpected setbacks. From filing fees to medical exams and legal services, knowing what to expect allows you to plan confidently and stay focused on your goals.
At Twin Cities Immigration Law PLLC, we pride ourselves on clear communication and transparent pricing. We’ll help you understand every fee, anticipate total costs, and take control of your immigration journey — without financial surprises along the way.
📞 Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your application process with confidence.
