Filing Fee for Form I-485 and Other Adjustment of Status Costs
The I-485 filing fee is the primary government cost in the adjustment of status process. However, the filing fee for Form I-485 covers the green card application itself. Typically, adjustment of status package include other forms, and you may have some incidental expenses. Ultimately, total costs vary by green card category and your situation. This page will help you consider and accurately plan for all required fees in advance.
Key Takeaways
- The standard I-485 filing fee for most applicants is $1,440.
- Children under 14 filing with a parent pay a reduced fee.
- Very few applicants will qualify for a USCIS fee waiver.
- Others forms, medical exams and document preparation add to the total cost.
- Incorrect payments cause USCIS rejection and delay.
What Is the I-485 Filing Fee?
The I-485 filing fee is the amount U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires when you submit Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This fee covers the core green card application.
However, the filing fee for Form I-485 is rarely the only government cost in an adjustment of status case. Most applicants must also pay separate fees for related forms and other expenses.
| Applicant Type | I-485 Filing Fee |
|---|---|
| Most Applicants (Age 14+) | $1,440 |
| Child Under 14 (filing with parent) | $950 |
Does the Filing Fee for Form I-485 Include Other Forms?
No. The filing fee for Form I-485 only covers the green card application itself.
However, USCIS allows certain related forms to be filed without additional fees when submitted together with Form I-485:
- I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
- I-131 (Advance Parole travel document)
- I-765 (Employment Authorization Document)
In the next section, our fee tool below can help you determine your total USCIS filing fees and CitizenPath preparation fees so you can plan with confidence.
Adjustment of Status Fee Tool: Determine Your I-485 Packet Fees
The total adjustment of status fee will vary because different forms are required for different situations. For example, a family-based adjustment package should include different forms than an employment-based package. Use this tool to project your USCIS fees and CitizenPath preparation fees.
I-485Other Adjustment of Status Costs
The I-485 filing fee is only one part of the total cost. Most applicants pay additional expenses during the green card process.
In addition to other forms, you may have other incidental expenses as a part of the adjustment of status process.
Medical Examination
USCIS requires most applicants to submit Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. Only a USCIS-designated civil surgeon can complete this exam. Learn more about the immigration medical exam →Passport Style Photos
USCIS requires applicants to submit passport-style photos that meet specific requirements. Many local businesses, including drug stores, offer reasonably-priced passport photo services. Google "passport photos near me" →Certified Translations
Any foreign language documents, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate, must be accompanied by a certified English translation. There are several competitive options for this service. Learn more about certified translations →
| Expense | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Medical Exam (Form I-693) | $200–$500 |
| Passport Photos | $10–$30 |
| Translations (if required) | Varies |
Can You Get a Fee Waiver for the I-485 Filing Fee?
In most cases, USCIS does not allow a fee waiver for Form I-485. A typical family-based or employment-based adjustment applicant usually must pay the required filing fee.
Fee waivers, using Form I-912, are typically available in certain humanitarian cases or when the applicant is already one of certain statuses, such as a victim of domestic abuse. Also, some categories may be fee-exempt, meaning you file Form I-485 with no fee at all. For example, USCIS states that refugees adjusting status do not pay the Form I-485 filing fee.
Learn more about possibility of a waiver for the I-485 filing fee on our page for fee waivers →
Payment Methods for the I-485 Filing Fee
USCIS now requires electronic payment methods for paper-filed forms submitted to a USCIS lockbox. They no longer accept personal or business checks, money orders, or cashier’s checks for most paper filings.
When paying the filing fee for Form I-485, USCIS generally accepts only:
- Credit/debit/prepaid card using Form G-1450 (Authorization for Credit Card Transactions)
- ACH debit (bank transfer) using Form G-1650 (Authorization for ACH Transactions)
CitizenPath has found that ACH bank transfers are usually the safest option because credit card transactions can be declined or flagged by a bank’s fraud controls, which may lead to a rejected filing and lost time. For more information, review our post on how to use Form G-1650 and G-1450 →
If you want extra confidence when preparing Form I-485, CitizenPath provides clear instructions written for everyday people. The affordable service checks for mistakes and builds a tailored checklist so you know exactly what to submit. You pay only when you’re satisfied and ready to download your I-485 package.
Most Common I-485 Filing Fee Mistakes
Many rejections occur because of avoidable issues:
- Using outdated fee amounts and payment methods
- Submitting a check or money order
- Forgetting to sign the payment form
- Using more than one payment method
USCIS will reject the entire adjustment of status application package if the I-485 filing fee is not submitted correctly. Of course, a rejection delays your case.
Common Questions About the I-485 Filing Fee
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