Congratulations on deciding to immigrate to the United States!
Before you begin your immigration journey, you’ll need to understand what the process involves. To permanently move to the United States you must meet certain requirements, pay government fees, and have your application approved by the U.S. government. That can be complicated and expensive, so it’s important to know what lies ahead.
To immigrate to the United States means to relocate permanently by obtaining a green card (officially known as an “immigrant visa” or “lawful permanent residence”). A green card allows unrestricted employment and can be renewed indefinitely, among other benefits. It also provides a pathway to U.S. citizenship.
Not everyone is eligible for a green card, and applying for one can be expensive and time-consuming. Many people instead use temporary visas to visit, work, or study in the United States. Such visas (officially called “nonimmigrant visas”) are often renewable and good for multiple visits, which might allow you to live in the United States for several years.
Learn more in our guide: Green Card Vs Visa: What’s the Difference?
This guide focuses on the options for permanent immigration. Remember, though, that many people start out on temporary visas (such as F-1 or J-1 student visas) before going on to gain green cards. If you don’t currently qualify for an immigrant visa, think about whether a temporary visa might help you achieve your goals.
Are you ready to immigrate? Find out if you’re eligible for a marriage-based green card or a family-based green card, or learn more about how Boundless can help you navigate the immigration process.
Types of U.S. Visas
- Family-based green cards
- Employment-based green cards
- Humanitarian green cards
- Diversity lottery green cards
- Longtime-resident green cards
- Other green cards
This guide focuses on family and employment-based green cards since those are the options used by most immigrants. Let’s take a closer look.
- Family-based green cards
Most green cards are issued to the family members of current U.S. citizens and green card holders. Eligible family members include spouses, widows/widowers, children, parents, and siblings, but the rules vary depending on whether the sponsor is a U.S. citizen or a green card holder, and also on how closely related the immigrant is to the sponsor. You can read more about the requirements for a family-based green card below.
- Employment-based green cards
Many immigrants come to the United States using employment-based green cards, which are issued in five different categories based on the skills or other benefits you bring to the country.
The first four categories — called EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, and EB-4 — focus on the skills you bring as an employee. In some cases you’ll need a U.S. employer to sponsor your application; in others, you’ll have to demonstrate extraordinary abilities or specialized training. You can read more about these requirements below.
The EB-5 green card is a little different: it’s issued to investors who spend between $500,000 and $1 million creating jobs in American communities. The details vary depending on your home country, so seek legal and financial advice if it’s a route you want to explore.
An employment-based green card shouldn’t be confused with a work permit (officially called an “Employment Authorization Document”), which is a separate document granting marriage-based green card applicants the right to work in the United States.
- Humanitarian green cards
Green cards are sometimes issued to refugees and asylees, as well as to victims of human trafficking, abuse, and crime. Getting a visa as a member of one of these groups can be complicated, so speak to a lawyer if you think you might be eligible. Our introductory guide to green cards has more details about humanitarian visas.
- Diversity lottery green cards
The United States runs a “green card lottery” that randomly awards immigrant visas for up to 50,000 people each year. Only applicants from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States are eligible to apply. Check the Boundless guide to the diversity lottery for more information.
- Longtime-resident green cards
Green cards can be issued to individuals who have physically lived in the United States, either lawfully or unlawfully, since January 1, 1972. They must have entered the United States before that date and not have left the United States since arriving.
- Other green cards
The U.S. government issues many other types of green cards, including ones for “special immigrants” such as media professionals, religious workers, Afghanistan and Iraq nationals who have assisted the U.S. government, and employees of international organizations. In some situations, green cards are also available to Cuban citizens and American Indians born in Canada.
Boundless offers unlimited support from our team of immigration experts, so you can apply with confidence and focus on what’s important, your life in the U.S.
For most green card applications, you’ll need to pass:
- a background check, for which you may have to submit police reports from places where you’ve previously lived and answer questions about past convictions.
- a medical exam, during which you’ll be asked questions about your mental health, use of drugs and alcohol, and history of communicable diseases.
You’ll also have requirements based on the specific visa for which you’re applying. Let’s take a look at the requirements for family-based and employment-based green cards:
- Family-based green cards
The main requirement for a family-based green card is that you be closely related to a green card holder or permanent resident.
You’ll also need an affidavit of financial support from someone who’ll ensure you don’t fall into poverty after arriving in the United States. In most cases, your sponsoring relative will also be your financial sponsor, but if necessary a separate “joint sponsor” can pledge to support you. Either way, your financial sponsor must have a household income that’s at least 125% of the federal poverty guidelines.
If the sponsoring relative is a U.S. citizen and you are their spouse, widow/widower, unmarried child aged 21 or younger, or parent (if the U.S. citizen is aged 21 or older), then you can apply for a green card as an immediate relative. That’s a good thing! It means a green card will be available to you immediately, so you won’t have to wait in line.
If your sponsoring relative is a U.S. citizen and you aren’t one of the relations listed above, or if your sponsoring relative is a green card holder, you’ll apply as a “family preference” immigrant in one of the following categories:
First preference (F1): unmarried children (aged 21 or older) of U.S. citizens
Second preference (F2A): spouses and unmarried children (aged under 21) of green card holders
Second preference (F2B): unmarried children (aged 21 or older) of green card holders
Third preference (F3): married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens
Fourth preference (F4): siblings of U.S. citizens (if the U.S. citizen is aged 21 or older).
There’s no cap on visas for immediate relatives, but only a limited number of family preference green cards are issued each year, so you’ll have to wait for one to become available. Your preference category determines how long you’ll wait, ranging from a year or two for F1 applicants and up to a decade or longer for F4 applicants.
To minimize your wait time for a green card, it’s important to get the details right. Let Boundless be your immigration go-to, guaranteed approval or your money back.
- Employment-based green cards
Employment-based green cards typically require that a specific U.S. employer sponsor you, or evidence that you possess extraordinary skills and training in your chosen field.
There are five categories for employment green cards:
First preference (EB-1): for people with extraordinary skills (shown through national or international acclaim); academic researchers; and executives with multinational companies.
Second preference (EB-2): for people with advanced degrees; exceptional abilities in the sciences, arts, or business; or whose admittance is in the national interest.
Third preference (EB-3): for skilled workers with at least 2 years of training or work experience; professionals (those whose job requires a US college bachelor’s degree or foreign equivalent); and unskilled workers (jobs that require less than 2 years of work experience).
Fourth preference (EB-4): for “special immigrants” such as religious workers, military translators, and the employees of international organizations
Fifth preference (EB-5): for investors who deploy at least $500,000 into job-creating ventures in the United States
To qualify for an employment-based green card, you’ll have to meet the criteria for the specific category under which you’re applying.
For EB-1 and EB-2 visas, you’ll have to properly document your skills, training, and any national or international recognition you’ve received. That’s a complicated process, so seek legal counsel if you think you might be eligible.
For EB-2, E-3, and EB-4 green cards you’ll typically need an employer to sponsor your application. For EB-2 and EB-3 visas, you’ll also usually need labor certification showing that there are no American workers able to do the work for which you’re being hired. Your employer will normally handle that process, and provide any legal guidance you need.
For EB-5 green cards, there are complex rules governing the investments needed to qualify. Be sure to seek proper financial and legal advice if you want to take this path.
Remember, it’s also possible to live and work in the United States using a family-based or marriage green card, and you’ll often be able to begin working before your visa is finalized. Boundless can help you figure out if you’re eligible for a family green card, and can make the whole process quicker and easier.
he total cost of applying for a family-based green card is approximately $3005 for an applicant living in the United States or around $1540 for an applicant living abroad. This includes mandatory U.S. government fees, which are nonrefundable, plus the typical cost of the required medical examination.
The total cost of applying for an employment-based green card varies depending on the category under which you’re applying. You can expect to pay $2330 for your green card application, but your employer could face additional filing fees and labor certification costs, potentially driving the total cost to around $10,000.
In either case, your filing fees are nonrefundable, so it’s important to get your application right the first time.
Not sure what costs to expect? Boundless’ USCIS fee calculator can help determine the exact government fees for your application. We also help you pay your costs in installments, so you can get started now and pay later.
Applying for an Immigrant Visa
The application process you’ll follow will depend on where you currently live:
- Living in the United States: If you’re already in the United States, you’ll often be able to file your application and remain in the country while it’s being processed. This is called Adjustment of Status (AOS)
- Living outside the United States: If you’re currently outside the United States, you’ll usually file your green card application from your home country, and remain there while it’s processed by your local U.S. embassy or consulate. This is called consular processing.
There are pros and cons to both pathways, so it’s worth making sure you understand the difference between Adjustment of Status and consular processing. In either case, though, your green card application process will typically follow the same basic steps:
STEP 1: Your sponsor will file a petition with the U.S. authorities to start the immigration process. For family-based green cards this will be Form I-130, which establishes your relationship to the sponsoring relative. For employment-based green cards it will be Form I-140, which requests an employment-based green card on your behalf.
STEP 2: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will review and hopefully approve your petition. Once this is done, you will file your actual green card application, unless you already did so through concurrent filing, using Form I-485 to apply from inside the United States or Form DS-260 to apply from outside the United States. For family-based green cards, your sponsor will also submit Form I-864, pledging to support you financially.
STEP 3: If you’re applying from inside the United States, USCIS will process your application and mail you the details for an appointment to take your biometrics. If you’re applying from outside the United States, your application will be processed by your local consulate, and you’ll get your biometrics taken as part of your consular interview. In both cases, you’ll also need to get a medical exam as part of the application process.
STEP 4: Both application processes require an in-person interview. Once your application is processed, you will be sent a notice with the date and time at which you must attend an interview at either a USCIS office (if applying in the United States) or a U.S. consulate (if applying outside the United States).
STEP 5: After the interview, you’ll be told whether your application has been approved. If you applied from inside the United States, your green card will be mailed to you. If you applied via consular processing, your passport will be returned with a visa allowing you to travel to the United States; once you arrive, your green card will be mailed to your U.S. address.
After your petition is approved, and if the applicant is based outside the United States, USCIS notifies the National Visa Center (NVC) that the petition is approved so green card application pre-processing can begin.
The application process varies for other types of green cards, such as the diversity lottery, humanitarian, and longtime-residence green cards. More detailed information can be found on the USCIS website.
Boundless will stay with you from your initial petition to your final interview. Along the way, you’ll save thousands of dollars on legal fees while working with an experienced, independent immigration attorney who will answer all your questions and review your application materials. Get started today!
Immigrant Visa Wait Times
IMPORTANT UPDATE (March 24, 2023):
The April 2023 Visa Bulletin brought a significant change to the F-2A family-based category, which covers spouses and unmarried children under 21 of U.S. Green Card holders. The category is facing a backlog of cases, resulting in the “Final Action Dates” for F-2A applications no longer being current. “Final Action Dates” pertain to applications with priority dates that have reached the front of the line and can be processed. Nevertheless, the “Dates for Filing” for the F-2A category are still current, allowing applicants to file their green card applications. However, these applications will remain unadjudicated until their priority dates become current. Mexican applicants’ “Final Action Date” or priority date has retrogressed to November 1, 2018, and for all other applicants, it has retrogressed to September 8, 2020. This change will likely result in significantly longer wait times for green cards in the F-2A category.
How long it takes to get a green card can vary significantly depending on the specifics of your case.
If you’re applying for a marriage green card, you can expect to get your green card within – months if you’re married to a U.S. citizen, or within – months if you’re married to a green card holder. For other family green cards, the wait time can be significantly longer. .
If you’re applying for an employment-based green card, your expected wait will depend on the EB category you’re using. Historically, USCIS has processed employment-based petitions in less than a month, and employment-based green card applications in less than a year, Remember that your employer might be able to use premium processing to fast-track your visa application.
One way to keep your processing time to a minimum is to ensure you file your application and supporting documents correctly on your first try. With Boundless, you’ll get help filling out every form and the peace of mind of knowing that an independent attorney has reviewed all your forms and supporting documents.
What Happens Next?
Congratulations on becoming a green card holder! After all the hard work, you are now free to live and work wherever you like across the United States. You also have a clear pathway to eventual U.S. citizenship.
Your physical green card will be mailed to the U.S. address you put on your application. This can take up to 3 months, but you are allowed to remain in the United States and to work for U.S. employers in the meantime. Learn about checking your green card status.
In some cases, such as if you obtained your green card through marriage but have been married less than 2 years, you’ll be issued a conditional green card. This means you will have to meet certain conditions and file Form I-751 to apply for an unconditional green card after two years of living in the United States. Make sure you don’t forget, since your green card could be revoked if you do.
An unconditional green card has to be renewed every 10 years, but there’s no limit on the number of times you can renew it. It’s possible to have your green card revoked if you spend too long outside the United States, or if you break the law, though.
Between 3 and 5 years after receiving your green card, you’ll become eligible for U.S. citizenship – the final step in many immigrants’ journeys. There’s no obligation to become a citizen, but if it’s something you want to explore, start planning now. You’ll need to meet requirements such as filing and paying your taxes, avoiding criminal convictions, and learning about U.S. history and society.
How to Avoid Common Problems and Pitfalls
If you plan to file a green card application, you need to be careful not to misrepresent your intentions when you first arrive in the United States. USCIS officials will closely scrutinize AOS applications filed within 90 days of entering the United States on a nonimmigrant visa.
Be careful with past visa violations. Overstays and unlawful presence in the United States can complicate green card applications, or lead to lengthy bans on reentering the country. It’s sometimes possible to obtain a waiver of these penalties, so consult a lawyer if you think this might affect your application.
Don’t fall for immigration scams. Unfortunately, there are plenty of scammers who target immigrants by posing as government officials or immigration lawyers. Use common sense, and report any suspected immigration scams to the appropriate authorities.
Stay alert to changes to the immigration process. The immigration system is always changing, so follow idocs on Facebook and Twitter, or read the idocs blog to get regular updates on the policy shifts that could impact your immigration journey.
A green card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, is a document issued by the U.S. government that grants the holder permanent resident status. This status allows the individual to live and work in the U.S. indefinitely and provides a pathway to U.S. citizenship after a specified period (typically 3-5 years).
Is a green card the same thing as a visa?
No, a green card and a visa are different things. Green cards provide certain benefits that visas do not. Learn more in our Green Card vs Visa guide.
The green card application process differs depending on if you are applying from within or outside the United States. There are two main green card application forms:
Green card application (from within the US): Form I-485 (Application to Adjust Status). This form is used by those who are already in the U.S. on a nonimmigrant visa, have been selected for a diversity visa, or are eligible through family or employment.
Green card application (outside the US): Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Electronic Application). This form is used by those seeking an immigrant visa from abroad, either through family, employer sponsorship, or the diversity visa program.
The processing time for a green card is anywhere from a few months to many years depending on the type of green card you’re applying for and where you’re applying from. More precise estimates are provided below. Learn how to check your green card application status.
Applying from within the United States
For spouses and immediate relatives (parents and minor children) of U.S. citizens applying from within the United States through adjustment of status, the wait is currently 7.4 months. For spouses of U.S. green card holders, other relatives of U.S. citizens, and employment-based green cards, the wait can be much longer, typically two years or more.
Applying from outside the United States
For spouses and immediate relatives (parents and minor children) of U.S. citizens applying from outside the United States via consular processing, the wait is currently 14.4 months. All other green card categories are subject to country caps, and wait times vary dramatically.
For spouses of U.S. green card holders applying from outside the United States, the current wait is 35 months.
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What’s the difference between a Resident Card and a Green Card?
There is no difference — “Resident Card” and “Green Card” are two names for the same document. Officially called a Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551), this card proves that someone is a lawful permanent resident of the United States. The term “Green Card” is just a common nickname
The government filing fee for a family-based green card is $3,005 for an applicant applying from within the United States, and $1,340 for an applicant living outside the United States. Note, this does not include the cost of the medical exam, which varies by provider. Learn more about the costs of a family-based green card.
For other green card categories, check the USCIS website for the cost of your particular form.
Types of Green Cards
There are many categories of green cards. The most common types are:
- Family-Based Green Card
- Employment-Based Green Card
- Humanitarian Green Cards
- Diversity Lottery Green Card
- Longtime-Resident Green Card
- Other Green Cards
How to Get a Green Card
While the specific steps may vary based on your situation, most green card applications follow this general process:
- Petition Filing: Either someone files an immigrant petition for you, or in some cases, you file for yourself.
- Application Submission: Once your petition is approved and a visa is available in your category, you file a Green Card application with USCIS or a visa application with the U.S. Department of State.
- Biometrics Appointment: Provide your fingerprints, photos, and signature.
- Interview: Attend an interview with immigration officials.
- Decision: Receive a decision on your application.
This process can take several months to several years, depending on your specific circumstances and visa category. Below is a detailed explanation of each category, starting with family-based green cards:
Getting a family-based green card
Close relatives of U.S. citizens and current green card holders may apply for family-based green cards of their own. Eligible family members include spouses, children, parents, and siblings (as well as the spouses and children of those spouses, adult children, and siblings).
The following table lists the employment-based subcategories and the types of jobs that fall under them.
See the different types of Work Visas
*Extraordinary ability is demonstrated “through sustained national or international acclaim. Your achievements must be recognized in your field through extensive documentation,” according to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
**Exceptional ability refers to “a degree of expertise significantly above that ordinarily encountered” in your field.
Also included in this category are widows and widowers who were married to a U.S. citizen at the time the citizen died. Like spouses of living U.S. citizens and current green card holders who apply for a marriage-based green card, widows and widowers must prove that their marriage was authentic in order to receive a green card.
Many extended family members — cousins, aunts and uncles, and grandparents — do not qualify. They may apply for a U.S. permanent resident card only if they, too, have a closer relative who is a U.S. citizen or current green card holder (or qualify for one of the other types of green cards below).
Boundless can help you avoid common pitfalls in the immigration process with unlimited support from our team of immigration experts.
Getting an employment-based green card
Within the employment-based green card category, multiple subcategories of workers can apply for a permanent resident card. In some cases, their spouses and children may qualify for a green card, as well.
Types of employment-based green cards
The following table lists the employment-based subcategories and the types of jobs that fall under them.
*Extraordinary ability is demonstrated “through sustained national or international acclaim. Your achievements must be recognized in your field through extensive documentation,” according to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
**Exceptional ability refers to “a degree of expertise significantly above that ordinarily encountered” in your field.
Getting a humanitarian green card
For Military Family Members: Parole in Place (PIP)
Parole in Place (PIP) offers a pathway to lawful status for military families. This program is available to undocumented spouses, parents, and children of U.S. military service members (active duty, veterans, or Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve).
Under the program, eligible individuals can request parole without leaving the U.S., allowing them to adjust status to permanent resident if they qualify. While PIP itself doesn’t grant a green card, it removes certain barriers to adjustment of status, making the path to permanent residency more accessible for these family members.
For refugees and asylees
People who fear, or have experienced, persecution in their home country — because of their race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group — can seek protection in the United States by applying for a visa from abroad (to come as refugees) or from within the United States (to remain as asylees).
Once they have physically lived in the United States for at least one year since receiving refugee status or asylum, they may apply for a U.S. permanent resident card. Children and spouses (and in some cases, other family members) of refugees and asylees may also seek protection in the United States under these programs and eventually apply for a green card.
For human-trafficking victims
Victims of human trafficking who are living in the United States — whether lawfully or unlawfully (in other words, “undocumented”) — may apply for a T visa to stay in the United States for up to four years. As a condition of the T visa, however, they must help to investigate and prosecute perpetrators of human trafficking (unless the victim is under age 18, in which case they need not help with such efforts).
To qualify for a permanent resident card, the applicant must have physically lived in the United States for one of the following periods, whichever is shorter:
- Three years since receiving a T visa
- The duration of an investigation or prosecution of human trafficking
They must also meet other eligibility requirements. These include, for instance, demonstrating “good moral character” (meaning they have not committed certain crimes, such as fraud, prostitution, or murder) from the time they received a T visa until they’re approved for a green card. As another example, they must demonstrate to the U.S. government that they would suffer extreme hardship involving severe harm if they were required to leave the United States. (USCIS provides the full list of eligibility criteria.)
Certain family members will also be eligible to apply for their own green cards as long as both those relatives and the victim satisfy all requirements.
For crime victims
Victims of “substantial physical or mental abuse” who are living in the United States — whether lawfully or unlawfully (in other words, “undocumented”) — may seek protection by applying for a U visa. To obtain a U visa, the victim’s application must be certified by a law enforcement agency. Like recipients of T visas (see above), an applicant for a U visa must also agree to help investigate and prosecute people who commit certain crimes, such as kidnapping, sexual assault, and torture.
To qualify for a green card, however, the applicant will need to fulfill other eligibility requirements, including the following examples:
- They must have physically lived in the United States for at least three years since receiving a U visa.
- They must not have left the United States from the time they applied for a green card until USCIS has approved (or denied) their application.
- They must not have refused to help investigate or prosecute certain crimes from the time they received a U visa until USCIS approves (or denies) their green card application.
The victim’s children, parents, siblings, and spouse will also be eligible to apply for their own green cards as long as both those relatives and the victim satisfy all requirements.
For abuse victims
Victims of domestic violence (battery or extreme cruelty) may apply for a green card that would allow them to seek relief through the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). Although this law was created to benefit women, it applies to both women and men, and both parents and children, who are victims of abuse.
An abuse victim may apply for a permanent resident card on their own — without the knowledge or permission of their abusive relative, who can include:
- A current or former spouse who is a U.S. citizen or green card holder
- A parent who is a U.S. citizen or green card holder
- A child who is a U.S. citizen
USCIS will not notify the abusive relative of the application in order to keep the victim safe. (Full eligibility requirements are detailed on the USCIS website.)
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Important:
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse now, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline right away at 1-800-799-7233 or 1-800-787-3224 (TTY). You’ll be able to talk with someone about available resources, such as shelters, mental health care, and legal assistance. The hotline also provides information about green cards through VAWA.
Diversity Lottery green card
Under the U.S. “green card lottery” (officially known as the “Diversity Visa Lottery Program”), the U.S. government every year randomly selects up to 50,000 people from a pool of entries it receives from six geographic regions, such as Africa, Asia, and Oceania. Only people from countries that have had little immigration to the United States in the past — for example, Algeria, Lebanon, and Slovakia — may enter the lottery. The share of green cards distributed to any one country is capped at 7%.
Most lottery applicants live in their home countries at the time they cast their entries, but some already live in the United States under a different type of immigration status.
Important:
December 18, 2025: The Trump administration has suspended the green card lottery until further notice.
Getting a longtime-resident green card
Individuals who have physically lived in the United States — lawfully or unlawfully (meaning you were “undocumented”) — since January 1, 1972 may apply for a permanent resident card through a special process called “registry.”
To qualify for a green card through registry, the individual must meet all of the following criteria:
- They entered the United States before January 1, 1972, which they would need to prove by providing an I-94 travel record (officially called the “Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record”).
- They have not left the United States since arriving.
- They have “good moral character,” meaning they have not committed certain types of crimes, such as fraud, prostitution, or murder (see more info on “Good Moral Character“).
- They’re eligible for U.S. citizenship through naturalization.
- They have not committed crimes that would make them “deportable” (able to be sent back to their home country). Examples of such violations include drug abuse, smuggling, and marriage fraud (marrying a U.S. citizenc or green card holder to obtain a marriage-based green card).
- They have not committed crimes that would make them “inadmissible” (meaning they cannot receive a green card). Examples of such violations include entering the United States unlawfully and staying more than six months in the United States with an expired visa.
Other types of green cards
The U.S. government issues many other types of green cards besides the ones discussed above. Some of these include permanent resident cards for “special immigrants,” including media professionals, religious workers, Afghanistan and Iraq nationals who have served the U.S. government under certain capacities, and other types of workers who have served in an international organization. Others include green cards for Cuban citizens and American Indians born in Canada.
USCIS provides a list of these other green card types and their eligibility requirements.
idocs helps you build a tailored visa plan for every step of the green card process, from forms to your immigration interview. Get started today!
Applying for immigration benefits like a marriage green card, K-1 fiancé visa, or U.S. citizenship involves specific USCIS forms with associated fees. In 2026 the K-1 fiancé visa process takes approximately 7.7 months for applications filed today. The spousal visa (CR-1 visa) process can take between 14.5 and 35 months depending on the sponsor’s U.S. citizenship status. Understanding the overall cost and timeline of each option is crucial for couples deciding on the best path to a green card.
New Visa-Related Fees in 2025
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) introduces several new fees starting in fiscal year 2025, including a $250 “visa integrity fee” for most nonimmigrant visa applicants. Other increases affect Form I-94, ESTA, TPS, parole, and asylum filings.
These fees are in addition to existing USCIS application costs and, in many cases, cannot be waived.
- Purpose: Obtaining lawful permanent residence in the U.S. based on marriage to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- Who Must File: The spouse seeking the green card.
- Associated Fees: Up to $3005
- Forms Required:
- Form I-130 (Family Sponsorship Petition)
- Form I-485 (Green Card Application)
- Purpose: Bringing a fiancé(e) to the U.S. for marriage within 90 days of arrival.
- Who Must File: The U.S. citizen fiancé(e).
- Associated Fees: $675
- Forms Required:
- Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e))
- Purpose: Bringing a spouse to the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident.
- Who Must File: The U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse.
- Associated Fees: $1540
- Forms Required:
- Form I-130 (Family Sponsorship Petition)
- Form DS-260 (Online Immigrant Visa Application)
U.S. Citizenship (Form N-400):
- Purpose: Obtaining citizenship through naturalization.
- Who Must File: Eligible permanent residents meeting residency and other requirements.
- Associated Fees: $760
- Forms Required:
- Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization)
When should I file to avoid a fee increase?
You should file your USCIS application before any new fee rule takes effect, as fee increases are not applied retroactively. The most recent fee hike went into effect on April 1, 2024. While no new increase has been announced yet, it’s smart to file as soon as you’re eligible — especially if USCIS has proposed new changes or updates. Check the Federal Register for advance notice of any upcoming fee adjustments.
Below is a comprehensive overview detailing the current prices of key forms.
Green Card Cost
Green card costs in 2025 can be substantial, typically ranging from $2,000 to $3,000 for family-based applications and $2,000 to $5,000 or more for employment-based applications, especially if premium processing is used. These figures can increase further when accounting for additional expenses beyond USCIS fees. Learn more below.
Key Points
- New USCIS fees took effect April 1, 2024
- Costs vary depending on your specific situation and application type
- Additional expenses beyond USCIS fees should be considered
Green Card Fee Changes: Key Updates and Cost Implications
USCIS introduced a new fee rule effective April 1, 2024, bringing substantial changes to green card application costs and processes:
- Overall Fee Increases: Most immigration and naturalization benefit requests, including green card applications, now have higher fees.
- New I-485 Fee Structure: The Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status (Form I-485) has a revised fee system, directly impacting green card costs.
- Online Filing Discount: Many forms, including some for green card applications, offer a $50 reduction for online submission, encouraging digital applications and potentially lowering costs.
- Employment Authorization Fee Changes: Separate fees for initial and renewal employment authorization applications have been introduced, affecting costs for green card applicants who also need work permits.
- Biometrics Fee Integration: The biometrics fee is now incorporated into the main application fee, eliminating it as a separate charge and simplifying the overall cost structure for green card applications.
- Advance Parole Fee: A separate fee for advance parole (travel document) applications has been established, potentially adding to the total cost for green card applicants who need to travel.
- Expanded Fee Waivers: Certain humanitarian programs now have more extensive fee exemptions and waivers, potentially reducing costs for eligible green card applicants.
These fee changes are designed to make the immigration process more efficient and cover the costs of the U.S. Immigration system. Combining the biometrics fee into the main fee simplifies things, and having a separate advance parole fee lets applicants allocate costs more precisely.
Detailed Fee Breakdown
Family-Based Green Card Costs
Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative):
Filed by the U.S. citizen or permanent resident family member
- Online filing: $625 (increased from $535, a 17% rise)
- Paper filing: $675 (increased from $535, a 26% rise)
Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status):
This is the main form for applying for a green card within the U.S. filed by the intending immigrant if already in the U.S.
Note: There is no online filing option for this form
- Standalone application: $1440 (increased from $1,225, an 18% rise)
- Child under 14 filing with parent: $950 (increased from $750, a 27% rise)
Form I-864 (Affidavit of support under section 213a of the ina)
This form is a contract between a sponsor and the U.S. government, required for many family-based and some employment-based immigrants
- $120
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Employment-Based Green Card Costs
Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker):
Typically filed by the employer
- Fee: $715
Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status):
Filed by the employee if already in the U.S.
- Fee: $1440 (same as family-based)
Additional Forms and Fees for Both Routes
Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence):
This form is for conditional permanent residents who obtained status through marriage and need to remove conditions on their residence
- $750 (increased from $680, a 10% rise)
Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document):
This form allows you to work legally in the U.S. while your green card application is pending
- $630 (increased from $575, a 10% rise)
Other Relevant Fees
USCIS Immigrant Fee:
Paid after visa approval but before traveling to the U.S.
- $235
Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card)
- Online filing: $415
- Paper filing: $465
Consular Payment Requirements for Green Card Petitions
For applicants pursuing a green card from outside the U.S. through consular processing, there are specific government fees and payment requirements that differ from those applying within the U.S. Consular payment requirements include:
- Paying the State Department Processing Fee: Applicants living abroad must pay a $325 State Department processing fee for Form DS-260 (“Immigrant Visa Electronic Application”). This fee is paid after the petition is approved and before the visa interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. It must be paid online through the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) using a U.S.-based bank account (checking or savings account). Credit cards and foreign bank accounts are not accepted for these payments.
- Paying the Affidavit of Support Fee: This $120 fee is typically paid per case, not per applicant. It must be paid online through the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) using a U.S.-based bank account (checking or savings account). Credit cards and foreign bank accounts are not accepted for these payments.
- Paying the USCIS Immigrant Fee: After receiving visa approval but before traveling to the United States, applicants must pay the $235 USCIS Immigrant Fee online through the USCIS website.
Green Card Filing Fees At a Glance (Updated January 2025)
Mandatory Government Fees for Green Cards
*Medical examination costs typically range from $150 to $600, depending on the provider and location.
Note that these government fees are only paid at the same time if you are the spouse or immediate relative of a U.S. citizen and living in the United States. For other scenarios, these fees will be paid several months apart, during different stages of the green card application process.
You can use this calculator from USCIS to help you determine how much you’ll need to pay. Here’s a full list of the USCIS Fees associated with each immigration form.
idoc’s Essential Service gives you the same 99.97% success rate, without the high price tag.
Other Potential Green Card Application Costs
Beyond direct government fees and the medical exam fee, there are other green card application costs to keep in mind:
- Vaccination fees: Should your medical exam require it, you may need to update your vaccinations before receiving your completed medical examination report. Like medical exam fees, vaccination costs will vary by provider.
- Translation services fees: If your green card application package includes any documents in a language other than English, you must also include a translation of each document, certified as accurate by the translator. The cost of these services will vary — for example, a certified translation of a one-page birth certificate might range between $20 and $40.
- Document fees: As part of the green card application process, you will be asked to submit digital or physical copies of supporting documents, such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate, and passport. You and your spouse will also need to bring the original copies when attending your final green card interview (either in the United States or at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad). Government agencies generally charge fees for issuing certain official documents.
- Professional photography fees: To verify your identity and conduct background checks, the U.S. government will ask you to submit two recent 2-inch-by-2-inch photographs, which will vary in price by service provider. Although you are allowed to take your own photos, it’s generally a good idea to use a professional photography service, and many drug stores provide passport-style photos for a relatively low fee.
- Travel expenses: When you attend your biometrics appointment, green card interview, and medical exam, the U.S. government will not reimburse you for the expenses you incur when traveling to these locations. The same is true if you must travel to various government agencies to obtain official documents.
- Shipping costs: At different stages of the green card application process, you will pay nominal charges for postage and mailing of your application and supporting documents.
Boundless will help you pay your USCIS fees over time with our flexible payment plan options.
Payment Methods for Green Card Fees
When it comes to paying your green card fees, here are the available methods:
- USCIS Immigrant Fee: This fee is paid online through the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. Accepted payment methods include:
- Credit card
- Debit card with a Visa or Mastercard logo
- Prepaid debit card (only one card can be used, and sufficient funds must be available for both yourself and any accompanying family members)
- State Department and Affidavit of Support fees: These fees are paid online through the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) using a U.S.-based bank account (checking or savings account). Credit cards and foreign bank accounts are not accepted for these payments.
- Other Fees: Most fees for the green card application process are typically paid through the mail or in person. It’s important to note that each fee should be submitted as a separate payment to avoid complications. Accepted payment methods may include:
- Credit card
- Debit card with a Visa or Mastercard logo
- Prepaid debit card (with appropriate funds)
- US bank account using Automated Clearing House (ACH) payment (requires a US checking account number or routing number)
idocs can help you avoid common pitfalls in paying your immigration fees when you choose to pay your USCIS fees over time.
How To Save on Green Card Costs
On top of the fees listed in this article, there are additional costs involved in starting a new life in a different country, such as travel expenses, shipping fees, and more. The list below offers a few ways to save on the overall green card process.
Save by Filing Online:
USCIS offers a $50 discount for online filing. This means you’ll pay $50 less than the typical filing fee if you file your green card application forms online, rather than by mail.
Budget:
Prepare in advance by cataloging all anticipated expenses related to your green card application. Create a budget that encompasses these costs to reduce uncertainty throughout the process. Consider including items such as legal help fees (if applicable), filing fees, process-related fees (e.g., medical exams), translation costs (if needed), photo fees, and travel expenses to and from the embassy (for applications filed from abroad). Utilize budgeting tools like Google Sheets or automated apps like Mint to track your financial goals and receive money-saving suggestions.
Compare:
Lawyers vs. DIY vs. Boundless
- While applying for a permanent resident card can be daunting, hiring an attorney can significantly contribute to your expenses. Traditional Immigration lawyers charge between $2,000 and $12,000, with hourly rates ranging from $100 to $300.
- You could handle the application yourself, saving a substantial amount of money. However, the rate of denial or rejection tends to be higher for those who apply on their own.
- Boundless offers the best of both worlds. Get the experience and assistance of an independent immigration lawyer with the support and convenience of our award-winning platform.
Application Type
The filing fees for green card applications vary based on the type of application and your specific circumstances. To minimize costs, it’s essential to compare fees across different application types and identify potential cost savings. For example, obtaining a green card through the K-1 Fiancé Visa process will be more expensive, than getting a green card through the CR-1 Spousal visa process.
Avoid Unnecessary Expenses:
Be mindful of avoiding unnecessary expenditures, such as premium processing fees or expedited shipping costs. While these services may be beneficial in certain situations, they can also inflate your overall application expenses.
Learn About Fee Waivers:
USCIS offers fee waivers to some low-income immigrants and exemptions based on humanitarian grounds, such as refugees, asylum-seekers, and victims of domestic violence.
Discounted applications for immigration benefits are available to households earning below 150% of the federal poverty line.
Lower Your Costs with idocs
While the investment is significant, many find the long-term benefits of U.S. permanent residency outweigh the costs. However, navigating the complex application process and understanding all associated fees can be challenging.
That’s where Boundless comes in. Unlike traditional immigration lawyers, who can charge between $2,000 and $12,000, Boundless offers a more affordable solution without compromising quality. With Boundless, you get:
- Expert guidance through every step of your green card application
- Review of your application by an experienced immigration attorney
- Assistance with all required forms and documents
- Support in understanding and planning for all associated costs
Don’t let the complexity of green card applications or the high fees of traditional lawyers deter you from pursuing your American dream. Choose Boundless for a cost-effective, streamlined path to your green card. Get started today and take the first step towards your new life in the United States.
For a quick reference, here’s a summary of current processing times for key immigration forms. The number of days/months shown is the median. It represents the time it took USCIS to process half of the applications in a given time period.
The time it takes to process your immigration forms (citizenship, family, or employment-based visas) depends on a few things:
- The type of application: Regardless of visa category, different applications have different processing times, including:
- Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
- Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e))
- Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization)
- Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status)
- Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker)
- Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker)
- Form ETA-9089 (PERM Labor Certification) – filed with the Department of Labor, not USCIS
- The agency involved: While U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) processes most forms, the PERM Labor Certification (Form ETA-9089) is processed by the Department of Labor (DOL), which has its own processing timelines.
- The location: The USCIS office or service center handling your application can affect processing times.
- The specific category: Processing times for employment-based visas can vary based on the preference category (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, etc.) for immigrant visas or the specific nonimmigrant classification (H-1B, L-1, O-1, etc.) for Form I-129 petitions.
- Premium processing: Some employment-based petitions, including certain I-140 and I-129 categories, are eligible for premium processing, which can significantly reduce wait times. Note that PERM Labor Certifications are not eligible for premium processing.
USCIS and the DOL regularly update processing times for many types of applications. This helps you understand how long you might have to wait.
Processing times can vary widely depending on the specific USCIS office or service center. Offices in less populated areas may be faster than those in big cities. Certain service centers may specialize in specific visa categories for employment-based petitions, affecting processing times.
Checking your case status tells you the current stage of your application (e.g., “received,” “pending review”), while checking processing times gives you an estimated timeframe of how long similar cases typically take at your specific USCIS office. Both are important for managing your expectations and planning for the future. By knowing your case status, you can ensure your application is progressing as expected, and by knowing the processing time, you can get a better idea of when to expect a decision.
How to check your processing time
- Locate Your USCIS Field Office: To find the office that is processing your case, use your zip code on the USCIS website. Some forms are handled by a field office, while others (especially employment-based petitions like I-140 and I-129) are handled by a service center.
- Find Processing Times: Once you know the office that is handling your case, use the USCIS Case Processing Time tool. Select your application type and the office’s location to see the time range it takes to process your type of case at that office.
- Understand the Time Range: The time range shows two numbers.
- The first number is the time it takes to complete 50% of cases (the median processing time).
- The second number is the time it takes to complete 93% of cases. Most cases will be processed within this range. Keep in mind that these numbers are updated weekly.
- Check for Premium Processing: For eligible employment-based petitions (including some I-140 and I-129 categories), check if premium processing is available, which guarantees processing within 15 calendar days for most cases.
- PERM Processing Times: For PERM Labor Certifications, check the Department of Labor’s website for current processing times, as these are handled separately from USCIS applications.
- Find your receipt number
- Enter your receipt number on the Case Status Online page
- Complete the captcha
- Click “Check Status”
The I-130 petition is the first step for family-based immigration. Processing times can vary based on the specific family relationship:
- Immediate Relatives (IR): This category includes spouses, parents, and unmarried children under 21 of U.S. citizens.
- CR1: This is for spouses of U.S. citizens who have been married for less than 2 years at the time of admission to the U.S.
- F2A: This category is for spouses and unmarried children (under 21) of permanent residents.
- Adoptions: These cases typically take longer due to their complexity and additional required documentation.
Unsure which family-based immigration path is right for you? Boundless can help you understand your options and choose the best route. Explore our family-based immigration services
Employment-Based Immigration
Employment-based immigration often involves multiple steps. The I-140 is for permanent positions, while the I-129 is for temporary workers. Premium processing, available for an additional fee, significantly reduces wait times for eligible categories.
PERM Labor Certification
PERM is often the first step for employment-based green cards. Processing times vary and are handled by the Department of Labor, not USCIS. Audit reviews typically take longer than analyst reviews.
K-1 Fiancé Visas
This processing time is just for USCIS approval. Additional time is needed for consular processing, which is required for K-1 visas.
Naturalization (U.S. Citizenship)
The current processing time represents a significant improvement from previous years, potentially benefiting hundreds of thousands of aspiring citizens.
Other Common Forms
These forms are often filed alongside other applications or as stand-alone requests.
What are AAO Processing Times?
AAO stands for “Administrative Appeals Office,” a branch of USCIS. AAO processing times are the amount of time it takes the Administrative Appeals Office to review an appeal of a denied application or petition and make a final decision. The AAO processing time has two stages:
1. An initial field interview: The field office that first denied the case has 45 days to review the appeal and decide whether to change its decision. If not, the case is sent to AAO.
2. AAO Appellate Review: The AAO will complete its review within approximately 180 days of receiving the case file. Depending on the complexity of the case, this could take more or less time.
Processing time backlogs
In February 2024, USCIS announced it had reduced its case backlog for the first time in over a decade. The overall backlog decreased by 15%, processing nearly 11 million case filings and completing 10 million cases.
In 2022, the agency established new internal cycle time goals to reduce the backlog. Here’s a breakdown of the targeted processing times:
Source: USCIS
Is Your Visa Taking Too Long? Here’s How to Check and Follow Up
It’s normal to experience wait times when applying for a visa, but how do you know if it’s taking longer than usual? Here’s what to do:
- Check Normal Processing Times: The USCIS processing time tool provides estimated processing times for different visa applications. Find your form type and check the “Receipt date for a case inquiry” to see if your application falls outside the normal window.
- Track Your Case Online: USCIS lets you track your application status online for updates. The process is slightly different depending on whether you applied inside or outside the US.
- When to Inquire: If your application date is before the “Receipt date for case inquiry” and you haven’t heard back, you can file a Case Inquiry with USCIS using their e-form. This will prompt them to investigate any potential delays.
Important Note: Don’t contact USCIS if your application is still within the normal processing times. You’ll likely receive a generic response.
Check the May Visa Bulletin now to see if your priority date is current and you can start your green card application process.
The U.S. Department of State released its Visa Bulletin for May 2026. This monthly update is important if you’re waiting for a green card because it shows how long you might have to wait.
Every month, USCIS announces whether applicants already living in the United States should file their “adjustment of status” applications based on the “Final Action Dates” or the “Dates for Filing.” For April, applicants must follow the “Dates for Filing” chart for family-based and “Final Action Dates”for employment-based categories.
Summary of Key Changes
Family-based categories continued to move forward, led by another strong jump in F-1 (about 7 months). F-2B also advanced, while F-4 saw moderate gains. F-2A remained current across all countries. Other categories, including F-3, moved only slightly.
Employment-based categories were still mostly flat. EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3 saw no movement, but EB-3 Other Workers advanced modestly, and EB-5 China inched forward.
What is my priority date? This is usually the date your green card application petition was initially filed. Check your paperwork or consult with an immigration attorney if you’re unsure.
What if my country has a backlog? Some countries have longer wait times than others due to high demand. This means cut-off dates may move slower and sometimes even go backward (this is called retrogression).
How long will I have to wait? Unfortunately, the Visa Bulletin can’t give you an exact answer. The wait time depends on your category and country backlog. It’s helpful to track patterns in your category over multiple months to get a better sense.
If you’re already familiar with those terms, scroll down to our summary of key developments or to the filing category that’s most relevant to you:
Family-based categories
- F-1: Unmarried Children (Age 21 and Older) of U.S. Citizens
- F-2A: Spouses and Unmarried Children (Under Age 21) of U.S. Green Card Holders
- F-2B: Unmarried Children (Age 21 or Older) of U.S. Green Card Holders
- F-3: Married Children of U.S. Citizens
- F-4: Siblings of U.S. Citizens
F-1: Unmarried Children (Age 21 and Older) of U.S. Citizens
F-2A: Spouses and Unmarried Children (Under Age 21) of U.S. Green Card Holders
F-2B: Unmarried Children (Age 21 or Older) of U.S. Green Card Holders
F-3: Married Children of U.S. Citizens
F-4: Siblings of U.S. Citizens
EB-1: Extraordinary People, Outstanding Researchers and Professors, and Multinational Executives and Managers
EB-2: Exceptional People and Advanced Degree Holders
EB-3: Skilled Worker or Professional
EB-3: Other Worker
EB-4: “Special Immigrants” Category
EB-5: “Investors” Category
The May Visa Bulletin is out, and family-based green card categories continue to move, while most employment-based categories remain stuck. F-1 saw another strong jump of about seven months. F-2B also advanced, and F-4 moved modestly. F-2A remains current across all countries, while F-3 saw only limited movement. Employment-based categories were largely unchanged. EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3 did not move. EB-3 Other Workers advanced slightly, and EB-5 China edged forward.
A new policy update from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is making I-9 audits more costly. More paperwork errors now count as “substantive,” meaning they can trigger fines immediately instead of being fixed later. Penalties range from $288 to $2,861 per form, adding up quickly for large teams. Employers still have three days to respond to an audit, but less room to correct mistakes once it starts. The takeaway: review and fix I-9s before ICE shows up.
A new analysis found the Trump administration is tightening legal immigration across multiple fronts, from expanded travel bans and visa pauses to stricter vetting and a $100,000 H-1B fee. Early data already shows declines, including a sharp drop in student visas and fewer family-based green cards. The changes could reduce legal immigration by hundreds of thousands in 2026.
A newer version of the U.S. citizenship test is now in use, with a higher number of questions and a tougher passing threshold. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) expanded the civics test to 128 possible questions. Applicants are asked up to 20 and must answer 12 correctly to pass. The change applies to those who filed Form N-400 on or after October 20, 2025.
Test your knowledge with our full list of citizenship questions and answers.
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders contribute about $29 billion annually to the U.S. economy, including nearly $8 billion in taxes, according to a new report. The findings come as the U.S. Supreme Court prepares to hear a case on efforts to end protections for some groups. About 1.3 million people currently hold TPS, with many deeply rooted in U.S. communities.
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