Counting the Dollars and Cents: A Comprehensive Guide to Marriage Green Card Expenses
The cost associated with obtaining a green card through marriage can vary based on several factors, and it’s important to note that fees may change over time. Here are some general marriage green card costs associated with the marriage-based green card process in the United States:
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Filing Fees:
The primary costs are associated with filing the necessary forms. The filing fees for the I-130 Petition for Alien Relative (filed by the U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse) and the I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status (filed by the immigrant spouse) were separate. Additionally, there might be fees for other forms such as the I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) and I-131 (Application for Travel Document).
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Biometrics Fee:
As part of the process, the immigrant spouse may need to attend a biometrics appointment. There is usually a fee associated with this process.
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Medical Examination:
Immigrants are generally required to undergo a medical examination by an approved civil surgeon. The cost of this examination is not set by the U.S. government and can vary.
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Attorney Fees:
While not mandatory, many people choose to hire an immigration attorney to assist with the process. Attorney fees can vary widely based on the complexity of the case and the attorney’s experience.
It’s important to check the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website or consult with an immigration attorney for the most up-to-date information on fees. Additionally, USCIS may periodically adjust fees, so it’s crucial to verify the current fees at the time of your application.
Marriage green card timeline
The timeline for obtaining a marriage-based green card in the United States can vary based on various factors, including the specific circumstances of the case, the processing times at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and other external factors. Here is a general timeline for the marriage-based green card process:
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Filing the I-130 Petition:
The process typically begins with the filing of the I-130 Petition for Alien Relative by the U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse. USCIS processing times for the I-130 can vary, but it may take several months.
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USCIS Processing of I-130:
USCIS will review the I-130 petition. Once approved, it will be forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC).
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National Visa Center (NVC) Processing:
The NVC will process the case, assign a case number, and request additional documentation. This stage can take several weeks.
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Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status:
The subsequent steps depend on whether the immigrant spouse is residing outside the U.S. (consular processing) or inside the U.S. (adjustment of status).
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Consular Processing:
If the immigrant spouse is outside the U.S., the case will be transferred to the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country. The spouse will attend an interview, and if successful, they will receive an immigrant visa to enter the U.S.
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Adjustment of Status:
If the immigrant spouse is already in the U.S., they can file the I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status concurrently with the I-130. After filing, USCIS will schedule an interview, and if approved, the spouse will receive a green card.
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Biometrics and Medical Examination:
Both consular processing and adjustment of status require biometrics (fingerprinting) and a medical examination. These steps occur at different stages of the process.
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Issuance of Green Card:
Once the immigrant spouse has successfully completed the necessary steps, they will be issued a conditional or permanent green card, depending on the length of the marriage at the time of approval.
It’s important to note that processing times can change, and delays may occur. Checking the USCIS website for current processing times and status updates is recommended. Additionally, hiring an immigration attorney can help navigate the process and address any issues that may arise.
