Key Takeaways
• The I-485 form filing fee is $1,440 as of April 1, 2024.
• USCIS accepts credit card payments via Form G-1450 for mail and pay.gov online.
• Separate payments are required for I-485, I-765, and I-131 forms.
Paying the I-485 Form Filing Fee with a Credit Card: A Step-by-Step Instructional Guide
Applying for a green card in the United States 🇺🇸 is a major step for many immigrants. The I-485 form, officially called the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is the main document used for this process. One of the most common questions applicants have is whether they can pay the I-485 form filing fee with a credit card. The answer is yes, but there are important rules and steps to follow. This guide explains everything you need to know about paying the I-485 fee with a credit card, including detailed instructions, common mistakes, troubleshooting tips, and a checklist to help you get it right the first time.
Introduction: Why Payment Method Matters
The I-485 form is the key to becoming a lawful permanent resident in the United States 🇺🇸. Filing this form is a big moment, but it also comes with a high cost. As of April 1, 2024, the filing fee for the I-485 form is $1,440. Many applicants also file Forms I-765 (for work authorization) and I-131 (for travel permission) at the same time, which now require separate payments of $260 and $630. These fees add up quickly, so being able to pay with a credit card can make the process easier and more flexible.
USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) has updated its payment options to keep up with technology and applicants’ needs. You can now pay the I-485 form filing fee with a credit card, but you must follow the right steps. This guide will walk you through the process, whether you are mailing your application or filing online.
Step 1: Decide How You Will File Your I-485 Form
Before you pay, you need to decide how you will submit your I-485 form:
- Mailing a Paper Application: You print out your forms and send them by mail to a USCIS Lockbox facility.
- Filing Online: You submit your forms electronically through the USCIS online portal.
Your payment method depends on which way you choose. Both options allow you to use a credit card, but the steps are different.
Step 2: Gather What You Need Before Paying
No matter how you file, you will need:
- A valid credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover)
- The correct fee amount for each form you are filing:
- I-485 form: $1,440
- I-765 form (if filing): $260
- I-131 form (if filing): $630
- The latest version of the I-485 form (download here)
- If mailing, the latest version of Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions (download here)
- A printer and pen (for paper filings)
- Access to the USCIS online portal (for online filings)
Tip: Always check the USCIS Fee Schedule for the most up-to-date fees before you pay.
Step 3: Paying the I-485 Fee by Credit Card (Paper Application)
If you are mailing your I-485 form, follow these steps to pay with a credit card:
3.1 Complete Form G-1450
- Download Form G-1450: Get the latest version from the official USCIS website.
- Fill Out the Form:
- Enter your name exactly as it appears on your credit card.
- Write your credit card number, expiration date, and security code.
- Select the type of card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover).
- Sign and date the form. Only the cardholder can sign.
- Double-Check for Errors: Make sure all information matches your card. Mistakes can cause your payment to be rejected.
3.2 Attach Form G-1450 to Your Application
- Place Form G-1450 on Top: Put the completed and signed Form G-1450 as the first page of your application package.
- Do Not Staple: Use a paperclip if needed, but do not staple the form to your application.
3.3 Prepare Your Application Package
- Include All Required Forms: Make sure your I-485 form and any other forms (like I-765 or I-131) are complete and signed.
- Separate Payments for Each Form: If you are filing I-765 or I-131, you must include a separate Form G-1450 for each fee, or use separate payment methods for each. Do not combine payments.
- Check Supporting Documents: Include all required evidence, such as photos, copies of your passport, and other supporting documents.
3.4 Mail to the Correct USCIS Lockbox
- Find the Right Address: Use the address listed on the USCIS Direct Filing Addresses for Form I-485 page. The address depends on your eligibility category and where you live.
- Use a Trackable Mailing Service: Consider using USPS Priority Mail, FedEx, or UPS so you can track your package.
3.5 What Happens Next
- USCIS Charges Your Card: If your application is accepted, USCIS will charge your credit card for the correct amount.
- Form G-1450 Is Destroyed: To protect your credit card information, USCIS destroys the G-1450 form after processing.
- Receive a Receipt Notice: You will get a Form I-797C, Notice of Action, by mail confirming your payment and application receipt.
Time Estimate: Completing and attaching Form G-1450 takes about 10–15 minutes. Mailing and processing can take 1–3 weeks before you receive a receipt notice.
Step 4: Paying the I-485 Fee by Credit Card (Online Application)
If you are filing your I-485 form online, the process is even simpler:
4.1 Create or Log In to Your USCIS Online Account
- Go to the USCIS Online Account page.
- Create an Account: If you do not have one, follow the prompts to set up your account.
- Log In: Use your email and password to access your account.
4.2 Complete and Submit Your I-485 Form Online
- Follow the Instructions: The online system will guide you through each section of the I-485 form.
- Upload Supporting Documents: Scan and upload all required evidence.
- Review and Sign Electronically: Double-check your answers and sign the form electronically.
4.3 Pay the Filing Fee
- Choose Payment Method: When prompted, select “Credit Card” as your payment method.
- Enter Card Details: You will be redirected to the secure pay.gov website, managed by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.
- Complete Payment: Enter your credit card information and confirm the payment.
- Get Confirmation: You will receive an electronic receipt immediately after payment.
Time Estimate: Filing and paying online usually takes 30–60 minutes, depending on how quickly you complete the forms and upload documents.
Step 5: Important Rules and Warnings
Non-Refundable Fees
- All USCIS filing fees are non-refundable. If your application is denied, rejected, or withdrawn, you will not get your money back.
Credit Card Disputes
- You cannot dispute a credit card payment after it is processed by USCIS. Attempting to reverse the charge can cause your application to be denied and may affect your immigration status.
Separate Payments for Each Form
- Each form (I-485, I-765, I-131) requires a separate payment. Do not combine payments for multiple forms, even if you are filing them together.
Card Declines and Payment Errors
- If your credit card is declined, USCIS will reject your application. You will need to resubmit your entire package with a new payment.
- Check your card’s daily limit and available balance before submitting your application.
Step 6: Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
1. Using an Expired or Invalid Credit Card
- Always check the expiration date and available credit before using your card.
2. Incorrectly Filling Out Form G-1450
- Double-check all information on Form G-1450. Even a small mistake can cause your payment to be rejected.
3. Combining Payments for Multiple Forms
- Never combine payments for I-485, I-765, and I-131. Each must have its own payment and, if paying by credit card, its own Form G-1450.
4. Mailing to the Wrong Address
- Use the correct USCIS Lockbox address for your eligibility category and location. Addresses change, so always check the latest information on the official USCIS website.
5. Not Including All Required Documents
- Missing documents can delay or cause rejection of your application. Use the checklist at the end of this guide.
Step 7: Troubleshooting Payment Problems
If Your Credit Card Is Declined
- Contact your bank or card issuer to find out why the payment was declined.
- Check for daily spending limits or fraud alerts that may block large payments.
- Resubmit your application with a new payment if necessary.
If You Made a Mistake on Form G-1450
- If you realize the mistake before mailing, fill out a new form and replace it.
- If you already mailed your application, wait for USCIS to contact you. If your payment is rejected, you will need to resubmit your application.
If You Did Not Receive a Receipt Notice
- Check your mail and email for a Form I-797C, Notice of Action.
- Log in to your USCIS online account to check your case status.
- Contact USCIS Customer Service if you have not received a receipt after 30 days.
Step 8: Checklist Summary
Before you submit your I-485 form and payment, use this checklist to make sure everything is correct:
For Mailed Applications:
– [ ] Latest version of I-485 form, completed and signed
– [ ] Separate Form G-1450 for each fee (I-485, I-765, I-131)
– [ ] Correct fee amounts for each form
– [ ] All supporting documents included
– [ ] Form G-1450 placed on top of each form’s packet
– [ ] Mailed to the correct USCIS Lockbox address
For Online Applications:
– [ ] USCIS online account created
– [ ] I-485 form completed and submitted online
– [ ] All supporting documents uploaded
– [ ] Payment made through pay.gov with a valid credit card
– [ ] Electronic receipt received
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a debit or prepaid card instead of a credit card?
– Yes, both debit and prepaid cards are accepted for online payments through pay.gov.
Can I pay the I-485 fee in person at a USCIS office?
– No, you must pay by mail (using Form G-1450) or online (using pay.gov).
What if my credit card is lost or stolen after I submit Form G-1450?
– As long as the card was valid when USCIS processed your payment, your application will not be affected.
Do I need to send a copy of my credit card with my application?
– No, never send a copy of your credit card. Only submit Form G-1450.
Expert Advice and Analysis
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, the ability to pay the I-485 form filing fee with a credit card has made the process more convenient for many applicants. However, the recent fee increases mean that applicants must plan carefully, especially if they are filing multiple forms at once. Immigration lawyers stress the importance of reading all instructions carefully and making sure each payment is made separately to avoid delays or rejections.
Official Resources and Where to Get Help
- USCIS Official Website: www.uscis.gov
- I-485 Form and Instructions: USCIS I-485 Page
- Form G-1450 (Credit Card Authorization): USCIS G-1450 Page
- Filing Fees and Payment Information: USCIS Filing Fees
- USCIS Customer Service: 1-800-375-5283
For the most current information, always check the USCIS website. If you have questions about your specific case, consider speaking with an immigration attorney.
Final Takeaways
Paying the I-485 form filing fee with a credit card is possible and can make the process easier. Whether you file by mail or online, follow each step carefully, use the correct forms, and make sure your payment information is accurate. Remember, all fees are non-refundable, and each form requires a separate payment. By following this guide and using the checklist, you can avoid common mistakes and keep your green card application on track.
Learn Today
I-485 Form → Application to adjust status and register permanent residence in the United States.
Form G-1450 → Authorization form allowing USCIS to charge a credit card for filing fees.
USCIS → U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, government agency handling immigration processes.
Pay.gov → Secure U.S. Treasury website for online government payments including USCIS fees.
Lockbox Facility → USCIS’s designated mailing address for receiving and processing paper applications.
This Article in a Nutshell
Paying the I-485 filing fee with a credit card simplifies applying for a green card in the U.S. Follow USCIS’s step-by-step instructions carefully to ensure correct payment, avoid common mistakes, and speed up processing whether filing by mail or online using secure portals.
— By VisaVerge.com
