Are There Hidden Government Fees Beyond the I-485 Filing Fee?

Key Takeaways

• Form I-485 filing fee increased to $1,440 effective April 1, 2024, non-refundable for all applicants.
• Separate fees: $85 Biometrics, $260 for Form I-765 (EAD), and $630 for Form I-131 (Advance Parole).
• Separate payments required for each form; combining payments may cause application rejection or delays.

When applying for a green card through adjustment of status in the United States 🇺🇸, many people focus on the main application—Form I-485. However, the process is more complex than just submitting this form and paying a single fee. Recent changes in government policy have introduced new fees and requirements that can catch applicants by surprise. Understanding all the costs and steps involved is essential for anyone planning to apply for permanent residence.

This guide explains the full range of government fees tied to Form I-485, including the main filing fee, the Biometrics Fee, and the separate charges for related forms like employment authorization and advance parole. It also covers who needs to pay these fees, how to pay them, and what practical steps applicants should take to avoid delays or rejections. Real-world examples and practical advice are included to help applicants and their families plan ahead.

What Is Form I-485?

Form I-485, officially called the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is the main form used by people already in the United States 🇺🇸 who want to become lawful permanent residents (green card holders). Instead of applying for a green card from outside the country, eligible applicants use Form I-485 to request a change of status while staying in the United States 🇺🇸.

You can find the official Form I-485 and its instructions on the USCIS Form I-485 page.

Main Filing Fee for Form I-485

As of April 1, 2024, the filing fee for Form I-485 is $1,440. This is a significant increase from the previous fee of $1,225. The fee must be paid when submitting the application, and it is non-refundable—meaning you will not get your money back even if your application is denied or withdrawn.

Key points about the main filing fee:
– Amount: $1,440 (as of April 1, 2024)
– Non-refundable: You cannot get a refund, no matter the outcome
– Payment methods: Money order, personal check, cashier’s check, or credit/debit card using Form G-1450
– Separate payment: Do not combine this fee with other payments for related forms

Additional Government Fees Associated with Form I-485

Many applicants are surprised to learn that the main filing fee is not the only cost involved. Several other government fees may apply, depending on your age, your need to work, and your travel plans while your application is pending.

Biometrics Fee

Most applicants between the ages of 14 and 78 must pay a Biometrics Fee of $85. Biometrics means fingerprinting, taking your photo, and sometimes collecting your signature. This step helps the government check your background and confirm your identity.

Who pays the Biometrics Fee?
– Required for: Most applicants aged 14 to 78
– Amount: $85
– Purpose: Covers fingerprinting and background checks

Employment Authorization Document (EAD) – Form I-765

Many people applying for a green card also want to work while their application is being processed. To do this, they must file Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization). In the past, if you filed Form I-765 together with Form I-485, there was no extra fee. However, starting April 1, 2024, there is now a separate fee of $260 for Form I-765, even if you file it at the same time as your I-485.

Key facts about the EAD fee:
– Amount: $260 (as of April 1, 2024)
– Separate payment: Must be paid separately from the I-485 fee
– Purpose: Allows you to work legally while your green card application is pending

Advance Parole (Travel Document) – Form I-131

If you need to travel outside the United States 🇺🇸 while your green card application is pending, you must apply for advance parole using Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document). Like the EAD, this form used to be free when filed with Form I-485. Now, there is a separate fee of $630 for Form I-131, even if you file it together with your I-485.

Key facts about the Advance Parole fee:
– Amount: $630 (as of April 1, 2024)
– Separate payment: Must be paid separately from the I-485 fee
– Purpose: Allows you to re-enter the United States 🇺🇸 after traveling abroad while your application is pending

Summary Table: Fees When Filing Concurrently (After April 1, 2024)

Important: You must submit separate payments for each form. If you combine payments, your entire application package may be rejected.

Who Needs to Pay These Fees?

The fees apply to most people filing for adjustment of status, but there are some exceptions:

• Children under 14: May pay a lower I-485 filing fee if applying with a parent, but still must pay other fees if needed.
• Applicants over 78: Usually do not need to pay the Biometrics Fee.
• Certain categories: Refugees, asylees, and some other special groups may be exempt from some fees. Always check the latest USCIS Fee Schedule for details.

Why Did the Fees Change?

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) proposed these fee increases and new separate charges in early 2023. The changes took effect on April 1, 2024. According to DHS, the higher fees help cover the full cost of processing and reviewing immigration applications, so that general taxpayers do not have to pay for these services.

Key reasons for the changes:
– To cover the real costs of processing immigration benefits
– To reduce the financial burden on taxpayers who are not using these services
– To improve processing times and service quality

As reported by VisaVerge.com, these changes have raised concerns among immigration attorneys and advocacy groups. Many worry that the higher costs will make it harder for lower-income families to apply for green cards and related benefits.

Real-World Example: Total Costs for a Typical Family

Let’s look at a common scenario—a married couple, both aged 35, each applying for adjustment of status and wanting to work and travel while their applications are pending.

For each spouse:
– Form I-485 filing fee: $1,440
– Biometrics Fee: $85
– Form I-765 (EAD): $260
– Form I-131 (Advance Parole): $630

Total for one person: $1,440 + $85 + $260 + $630 = $2,415

Total for two people: $2,415 x 2 = $4,830

This example shows how quickly the costs can add up, especially for families. If children are included, the fees may be lower for some forms, but the total can still be significant.

How to Pay the Fees

USCIS accepts several payment methods:
– Money order
– Personal check
– Cashier’s check
– Credit or debit card (using Form G-1450)

Tips for payment:
– Write separate checks or money orders for each form (I-485, I-765, I-131, Biometrics Fee)
– Double-check the payee information (usually “U.S. Department of Homeland Security”)
– Never send cash
– Keep copies of all payment receipts for your records

If you combine payments for different forms, your entire application package may be rejected, causing delays and extra work.

What Happens If You Filed Before April 1, 2024?

If you submitted your Form I-485 before April 1, 2024, and paid the old fees, you do not need to pay the new fees for Form I-765 or Form I-131 renewals while your I-485 is still pending. This rule helps people who filed before the fee changes took effect.

Key points:
– Old fee structure applies if you filed before April 1, 2024
– No new fees for EAD or Advance Parole renewals while I-485 is pending
– Always keep proof of your original filing date and payments

What If You Can’t Afford the Fees?

The increased fees can be a real challenge for many families. Some applicants may qualify for a fee waiver or reduced fee based on income, public benefits, or other factors. To request a fee waiver, you must file Form I-912 (Request for Fee Waiver) and provide proof of your financial situation.

Who might qualify for a fee waiver?
– People receiving certain public benefits (like Medicaid or SNAP)
– People with very low income
– Some special categories (such as refugees or asylees)

Not all forms are eligible for fee waivers, so check the official USCIS fee waiver page for details.

Practical Steps to Avoid Delays or Rejections

Filing for adjustment of status is a big step, and mistakes can lead to long delays or even rejection. Here are some practical tips:

• Submit all required initial evidence and supporting documents with your application. Missing documents can cause Requests for Evidence (RFEs), which slow down your case.
• Double-check your payment amounts and methods. Use separate payments for each form.
• Use the latest version of each form from the official USCIS website.
• Keep copies of everything you send to USCIS, including forms, supporting documents, and payment receipts.
• Follow the instructions carefully for each form, including where to mail your application.

Rights and Pathways After Filing Form I-485

Once you file Form I-485, you may have certain rights and options while your application is pending:

• Work authorization: If you file Form I-765 and it is approved, you can work legally in the United States 🇺🇸 while waiting for your green card.
• Travel permission: If you file Form I-131 and it is approved, you can travel outside the United States 🇺🇸 and return without abandoning your application.
• Stay in the United States 🇺🇸: You can remain in the country while your application is being processed, even if your previous visa expires.

However, you must follow all rules and avoid any actions that could harm your case, such as working without authorization or traveling without advance parole.

Future Outlook and Electronic Processing

No further fee increases or changes have been announced as of June 2025. However, USCIS is moving toward more electronic processing of applications. This may change how you pay fees or submit forms in the future. Always check the official USCIS website for the latest updates.

Where to Find Official Information and Help

For the most up-to-date information on fees, forms, and filing instructions, visit the USCIS Form I-485 page. You can also review the USCIS Fee Schedule and Fee Rule FAQs for detailed explanations.

If you have questions or need help, you can:
– Contact USCIS customer service
– Speak with a licensed immigration attorney
– Visit a local community organization that helps immigrants

Conclusion and Actionable Takeaways

Applying for a green card through adjustment of status now involves more than just the main Form I-485 filing fee. As of April 1, 2024, applicants must also budget for the Biometrics Fee, the separate fee for Form I-765 (EAD), and the separate fee for Form I-131 (Advance Parole). These changes reflect new government policies aimed at covering the real costs of processing applications.

Key takeaways:
– Budget carefully: The total cost for one adult applicant can exceed $2,400 if all forms are filed together.
– Use separate payments: Never combine payments for different forms.
– Check for fee waivers: If you cannot afford the fees, see if you qualify for a waiver.
– Stay informed: Always use the latest forms and follow official instructions.
– Keep records: Save copies of everything you send and all payment receipts.

By planning ahead and following these steps, you can reduce the risk of delays or rejections and move closer to your goal of becoming a permanent resident in the United States 🇺🇸. For more detailed analysis and updates, VisaVerge.com reports that staying informed about policy changes is essential for all applicants and their families.

Learn Today

Form I-485 → Application form for adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident in the U.S.
Biometrics Fee → A required $85 payment to cover fingerprinting, photos, and background checks for most applicants aged 14-78.
Employment Authorization Document → Document allowing applicants to work legally during their green card application process.
Advance Parole → Travel permission form enabling applicants to re-enter the U.S. without abandoning their pending application.
Fee Waiver → USCIS provision that allows some applicants to reduce or avoid fees based on financial hardship.

This Article in a Nutshell

Applying for a green card via Form I-485 now involves multiple fees including $1,440 filing, $85 biometrics, and new separate charges for work and travel forms, requiring careful planning to avoid costly delays or rejections in adjustment of status applications.
— By VisaVerge.com