How Much Does It Cost to Get a Green Card in 2026?
Getting a green card involves several government filing fees totaling $1,500 to $3,000 or more depending on your category. This does not include attorney fees or medical exam costs. Understanding what you owe — and what waivers are available — is important for planning.
Reviewed by Gracie Johnson, Certified Specialist in Immigration and Nationality Law, State Bar of California, California State Bar #276536
Last reviewed: July 2, 2026
For a marriage-based green card filed inside the US (adjustment of status), the main USCIS fees as of 2026 are: Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): $675. Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status application): $1,440 for applicants 14–78. The I-485 fee includes work authorization (I-765) and travel document (I-131) for many applicants, so you do not need to file or pay separately. Total government fees: approximately $2,115.
You must also pay for the immigration medical exam (Form I-693), which must be done by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon. The cost varies by civil surgeon but typically ranges from $300 to $500, including any required vaccinations.
Fee waivers (Form I-912) are available for certain applicants who demonstrate inability to pay based on income or receipt of means-tested public benefits. Not all forms have fee waiver options. An attorney can advise whether you qualify.
Attorney fees are separate from government filing fees. Fees vary by attorney and complexity of the case. Contact Gracie Johnson Law at (310) 554-4630 to discuss our fee structure and what payment options are available.
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Also available in Spanish: ¿Cuánto Cuesta Obtener una Tarjeta Verde en 2026?