← Blog · 2026-11-04

How Much Does a Green Card Cost in 2026? Full Fee Breakdown

Most people only look at the filing fee, then get surprised by four more bills. Here is the whole picture for a family-based green card, using the USCIS fee schedule (Form G-1055).

If you are inside the US (adjustment of status)

You pay two main USCIS fees: the I-130 petition ($675 on paper, $625 online) and the I-485 application ($1,440 on paper, $1,390 online). That is $2,115 by paper or $2,015 online for one person. Biometrics are already inside the I-485 fee.

A work permit (I-765) adds $260 when filed with the I-485, and advance parole (I-131) adds $630. Both are optional but most applicants want the work permit.

If you are abroad (consular processing)

You skip the I-485. Instead you pay the I-130, the DS-260 immigrant visa fee ($325 per person), a one-time $120 Affidavit of Support review fee for the whole case, and a $235 USCIS Immigrant Fee per person after visa approval. For one applicant that is about $1,355.

Costs outside the fee tables

The immigration medical exam is paid to a doctor and prices vary by clinic. Add certified translations, photos, courier fees and travel to your interview. If you file under section 245(i), add $1,000 per applicant.

Are fees refundable?

No. USCIS does not refund filing fees after a denial or withdrawal, so check every form before you file. A fee waiver (I-912) may remove some USCIS fees if you meet the income or benefit tests, but it never covers State Department fees.

Use the calculator on our homepage to add these lines up for your exact family size. Always confirm the latest numbers on USCIS.gov before you file.

Run your own numbers: Open the calculator

Informational only, not legal advice. Confirm figures on USCIS.gov.