This article was last updated and fact checked on April 28, 2025 by Mani Karthik.
When my family began our green card journey, one of the biggest surprises was the I-485 filing fee. We had budgeted for the main application costs but overlooked several additional fees that caught us off guard.
Having guided many friends and relatives through this process since then, I want to help you understand exactly what fees to expect when filing Form I-485 for adjustment of status.
This guide covers all current costs, payment methods, and strategies to manage these significant expenses.
In this article...
Quick Overview: I-485 Filing Fees for 2025
The I-485 filing fee varies based on age, with applicants 14 and older paying $1,440 (including biometrics) and children under 14 filing with parents paying $1,090.
Military applicants and certain humanitarian cases may qualify for fee waivers. Additional costs include medical exam fees ($200 to $500), attorney fees if using legal representation, and concurrent filing fees for forms like I-130 or I-140.
These fees are paid directly to USCIS and are non refundable even if your application is denied. Planning accordingly is essential for this significant financial investment in your immigration journey.
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Current I-485 Filing Fee Structure
As of 2025, here are the exact filing fees for Form I-485:
Standard Filing Fees
- Adults (14 years and older): $1,440 (includes biometrics fee)
- Children under 14 filing with parent: $1,090
- Children under 14 filing separately: $1,440 (includes biometrics fee)
Additional Forms Often Filed With I-485
- Form I-765 (Employment Authorization): $0 when filed with I-485
- Form I-131 (Advance Parole): $0 when filed with I-485
- Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): $535
- Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker): $700
- Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support): $0 (but requires financial documentation)
💡 Pro Tip: File Forms I-765 and I-131 concurrently with your I-485 application. These forms are free when submitted together with your adjustment of status application, but cost several hundred dollars each if filed separately later. This strategy gives you work authorization and travel permission while waiting for your green card decision.
Fee Exemptions and Waivers
Some applicants may qualify for reduced fees or waivers:
- Refugees and asylees applying within one year of status grant
- Special Immigrant Juveniles
- VAWA self petitioners and certain other humanitarian cases
- Afghan or Iraqi translators or interpreters
- Victims of human trafficking (T visa holders)
- Victims of criminal activity (U visa holders)
To request a fee waiver, submit Form I-912 with supporting documentation demonstrating financial hardship.
Additional Costs Beyond the I-485 Filing Fee
When budgeting for your adjustment of status, consider these additional expenses:
Medical Examination
- Required medical exam by a USCIS approved civil surgeon
- Cost ranges from $200 to $500 depending on location and doctor
- Additional vaccinations may be required at extra cost
Attorney Fees (If Using Legal Representation)
- Initial consultation: $100 to $400
- Full representation for employment based cases: $2,000 to $5,000
- Full representation for family based cases: $1,500 to $4,000
Document Preparation
- Passport photos: $15 to $20 for a set
- Document translation (if needed): $20 to $40 per page
- Photocopying and organizing documents: $30 to $50
Potential Future Costs
- Responding to Requests for Evidence (RFEs): $500 to $2,500 (attorney fees)
- Fee for removing conditions on residence (Form I-751): $760
- Naturalization application (Form N-400): $725
| Application Type | I-485 Fee | Biometrics | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult (14+) | $1,225 | $215 (included) | $1,440 |
| Child Under 14 (with parent) | $1,090 | Not required | $1,090 |
| Fee Waiver Eligible | $0 | $0 | $0 |
Payment Methods for I-485 Filing Fees
USCIS accepts specific payment methods for filing fees:
For Paper Filings:
- Money order
- Personal check
- Cashier’s check
- Credit card (using Form G-1450)
All payments must be made in US dollars and payable to “US Department of Homeland Security.”
For Online Filings (Where Available):
- Credit card
- Debit card
- Electronic funds transfer from US bank account
Never send cash through the mail. Ensure your payment includes the exact amount required.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Paying I-485 Filing Fees
1. Submitting Incorrect Fee Amount
Double check the current fee on the official USCIS website before filing. Fee amounts can change, and sending incorrect payment will result in your entire package being rejected.
2. Making Payment Out to Wrong Payee
Ensure all checks and money orders are made payable to “US Department of Homeland Security” not “USCIS” or other variations.
3. Forgetting to Sign Your Check
Unsigned checks will cause your application to be rejected and returned, delaying your filing by weeks.
4. Combining Fees Incorrectly
If filing multiple applications (like I-485 with I-130), you can combine fees in one payment or submit separate payments. If combining, include a clear breakdown of the fee allocation.
5. Overlooking Fee Updates
USCIS occasionally updates its fee structure. Always check the current fees on the official USCIS website before submitting your application.
FAQs About I-485 Filing Fees
Are I-485 filing fees refundable if my application is denied?
No, USCIS filing fees are non refundable regardless of the decision on your application. These fees cover the cost of processing your paperwork, and you pay for the service of having your application reviewed, not for a guaranteed approval.
Can I pay the I-485 filing fee in installments?
No, USCIS requires the entire filing fee to be paid upfront. There is no installment plan available. If you cannot afford the fee, you may qualify for a fee waiver based on financial hardship.
If I file I-485 for my whole family, do I need separate payments?
You can make one payment for all family members filing together, but it’s often recommended to submit separate checks for each applicant. This prevents the entire family’s applications from being rejected if there’s an issue with one payment.
What happens if USCIS increases fees after I mail my application?
USCIS typically honors the fee that was in effect when your application was received. However, if your application is rejected for any reason and you need to refile after a fee increase, you would need to pay the new higher amount.
Can I use a credit card to pay my I-485 filing fee?
Yes, you can pay by credit card by submitting Form G-1450 (Authorization for Credit Card Transactions) with your paper application. For online filings, credit card payment is directly accepted through the electronic system.
Bonus Tips for Managing I-485 Filing Fees
Time your application strategically. USCIS typically announces fee increases several months in advance. If a fee increase is approaching, consider filing before the new fees take effect.
Keep proof of payment. Make copies of checks or money orders and keep credit card statements showing USCIS charges. These serve as proof if questions arise about your payment.
Budget for the entire process. Remember that the green card journey involves multiple steps and potential fees beyond just the I-485 filing, including medical exams, photos, and eventually naturalization costs.
Consider premium processing for underlying petitions. While premium processing isn’t available for I-485 itself, you can expedite certain underlying petitions like I-140 for an additional fee of $2,500 to speed up the overall process.
💡 Pro Tip: When paying by personal check, write your A-number (if you have one) and “I-485 filing fee” in the memo line. This helps ensure your payment is correctly applied to your case if it gets separated from your application, potentially preventing delays.
Key Takeaways About I-485 Filing Fees
- Current I-485 filing fee is $1,440 for applicants 14 and older
- Children under 14 filing with parents pay a reduced fee of $1,090
- Include Forms I-765 and I-131 with your initial filing to avoid additional fees later
- Budget for additional costs like medical exam, photos, and possible attorney fees
- Fee waivers are available for certain humanitarian cases
- Payments must be made to “US Department of Homeland Security”
- All fees are non refundable even if your application is denied
The I-485 filing fee represents a significant investment in your future in the United States. While the costs may seem steep, proper planning and understanding of the fee structure can help you navigate this important step in your immigration journey.
Wishing you a smooth adjustment of status process and a successful transition to permanent residence in the United States!
This milestone investment opens the door to countless opportunities and a new chapter in your American journey. ✈️
