Can the Filing Fee for Form I-485 Be Waived?

Key Takeaways

• USCIS does not allow fee waivers for Form I-485 as of June 2025.
• Applicants must pay the full filing fee and any biometric services fee.
• Submitting a fee waiver request with I-485 results in application rejection.

When it comes to applying for a green card in the United States 🇺🇸, many hopeful immigrants face a big question: Can I get the filing fee for my Form I-485 waived? As of June 2025, the answer is clear—USCIS does not allow fee waivers for Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This policy affects thousands of applicants each year, especially those with limited financial resources. Here’s what you need to know about the current rules, the reasons behind them, and what options exist for people who struggle to pay the required fees.

What Is Form I-485 and Why Is the Filing Fee Important?

Form I-485 is the main application used by people already in the United States 🇺🇸 who want to become lawful permanent residents, also known as green card holders. This process is called “adjustment of status.” The filing fee for Form I-485 is a significant cost for many families. As of 2025, the fee is several hundred dollars, and applicants may also need to pay a separate biometric services fee for fingerprinting and background checks.

For many, these fees are a real burden. Some applicants hope to use a USCIS fee waiver to avoid paying the full amount. However, the rules about who can get a fee waiver are strict, and Form I-485 is not included.

Who Decides Which Forms Are Eligible for a USCIS Fee Waiver?

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the government agency that handles immigration forms and fees. USCIS has a list of forms that are eligible for a fee waiver. This list is published on the official USCIS Fee Waiver page. The agency reviews and updates this list from time to time, but Form I-485 is not on it.

Key facts:
– Form I-485 is not eligible for a fee waiver.
– The official list of forms that qualify for a fee waiver is found on the USCIS Form I-912 page.
– If you send a fee waiver request with your I-485 application, USCIS will reject your application or ask you to pay the fee.

Why Doesn’t USCIS Allow Fee Waivers for Form I-485?

The policy of not allowing fee waivers for Form I-485 has been in place since July 30, 2007. Since then, every update to the fee schedule has kept this rule. The main reason is that adjustment of status is considered a major benefit, and USCIS relies on these fees to fund its operations. The agency uses the money collected from filing fees to pay for staff, processing, and other costs.

USCIS’s official policy manual and the Fee Schedule confirm that Form I-485 is not eligible for a fee waiver. The agency’s rules are designed to be clear and consistent, so applicants know what to expect.

How Does the Fee Waiver Process Work for Other Forms?

While Form I-485 is not eligible, many other immigration forms can be filed with a fee waiver. Here’s how the process works for those forms:

1. Complete Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver. This form is used to ask USCIS to let you file another immigration form without paying the fee.
2. Show you can’t pay. You must provide proof, such as:
   • Income statements showing you earn less than 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
   • Proof you receive means-tested public benefits (like Medicaid or SNAP)
   • Evidence of financial hardship, such as medical bills or job loss
3. Submit Form I-912 with your main application. You send both forms together, either by mail or online (if allowed).
4. Wait for a decision. USCIS will review your request and either approve or deny the fee waiver. If denied, you must pay the fee to continue.

Important: This process does not apply to Form I-485. If you try to use it for I-485, your application will be rejected.

What Happens If You Submit a Fee Waiver Request with Form I-485?

If you send Form I-912 with your Form I-485, USCIS will not process your application. Instead, you will receive a notice telling you that the fee waiver is not allowed for this form. You will then have to pay the full filing fee and, if needed, the biometric services fee. If you do not pay, your application will not move forward.

This rule is strict and applies to all applicants, no matter their income or situation.

Are There Any Exceptions to the No Fee Waiver Rule for I-485?

There are no exceptions to this rule. Even if you are facing serious financial hardship, USCIS will not grant a fee waiver for Form I-485. The only way to avoid paying the fee is if you qualify for a fee exemption under a special law or program. These exemptions are rare and usually apply to very specific groups, such as certain Afghan or Iraqi nationals, or people covered by special humanitarian programs. If you think you might qualify for an exemption, you should check the official USCIS policy manual or speak with an immigration attorney.

What Can Applicants Do If They Can’t Afford the I-485 Filing Fee?

If you cannot pay the filing fee for Form I-485, you have a few options:

• Seek help from nonprofit organizations. Some groups offer financial assistance or help with immigration fees. Examples include local immigrant support centers, religious groups, or community foundations.
• Look for legal aid. Some legal aid organizations can help you find resources or payment plans.
• Save up before applying. Since the fee waiver is not available, it’s important to plan ahead and save the money you need before you file.
• Check for rare exemptions. If you belong to a special group that may qualify for a fee exemption, review the rules carefully.

Remember: Do not submit Form I-485 without the full fee unless you have a valid exemption. Your application will not be processed otherwise.

What Do Immigration Experts and Advocacy Groups Say?

Immigration attorneys and experts agree that the lack of a fee waiver for Form I-485 is a major barrier for some applicants. They advise people to prepare for this cost and to seek outside help if needed. Some advocacy groups have called for changes to the policy, especially to help low-income families and vulnerable groups. However, as of June 2025, there have been no changes to the rule.

Key points from experts:
– No fee waiver for I-485. All applicants must pay the full fee.
– Prepare in advance. Save money or seek help before filing.
– Stay informed. Watch for any changes to USCIS policy.

Have There Been Any Recent Changes or Announcements?

As of June 2025, there have been no recent announcements or policy changes that would allow fee waivers for Form I-485. USCIS reviews its fee schedules and waiver policies every year, but there is no sign that this rule will change soon.

Applicants should check the USCIS website regularly for updates. Any changes to the fee waiver policy would be announced there first.

What Are the Practical Implications for Applicants?

The main impact is that everyone who files Form I-485 must pay the full filing fee. This can be a big challenge for families with low incomes or people facing financial hardship. If you cannot pay, your application will not be accepted, and you will not be able to adjust your status to become a permanent resident.

This rule also means that some people may delay or decide not to apply for a green card because of the cost. Others may turn to community organizations or legal aid for help.

According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, the strict fee waiver policy for Form I-485 has led to increased demand for nonprofit support and legal aid services. Many applicants rely on these groups to help them gather the funds needed for their applications.

How Can Applicants Stay Up to Date on Fee Waiver Policies?

The best way to stay informed is to check the official USCIS website and read any new announcements. You can also call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283 for general questions about fees and forms.

Here are some helpful links:
– USCIS Fee Waiver Information
– Form I-485 Information
– USCIS Policy Manual, Volume 1, Part B, Chapter 4

Step-by-Step: What to Do If You Need to File Form I-485

1. Check your eligibility. Make sure you qualify to file Form I-485. Review the requirements on the official USCIS I-485 page.
2. Gather your documents. Collect all the required paperwork, including proof of eligibility, identity documents, and supporting evidence.
3. Save up for the filing fee. Plan ahead to have the full amount ready when you file.
4. Do not submit a fee waiver request. Remember, Form I-485 is not eligible for a fee waiver.
5. Submit your application. File your Form I-485 with the correct fee and any required biometric services fee.
6. Wait for a receipt notice. USCIS will send you a notice confirming they received your application and payment.
7. Attend your biometrics appointment. If required, go to your fingerprinting appointment as scheduled.
8. Respond to any requests for more information. USCIS may ask for more documents or information during the process.
9. Wait for a decision. USCIS will review your application and let you know if you are approved for permanent residence.

Common Questions About I-485 Filing Fees and Waivers

Q: Can I pay the I-485 filing fee in installments?
A: No, USCIS requires the full fee at the time you file your application.

Q: What if I send my I-485 without the fee or with a fee waiver request?
A: USCIS will reject your application and return it to you. You must resubmit with the full fee.

Q: Are there any groups who don’t have to pay the I-485 fee?
A: Only a few special groups, such as certain Afghan or Iraqi nationals, may qualify for a fee exemption. Most people must pay.

Q: Where can I find the most current information about fees and waivers?
A: Visit the USCIS Fee Waiver Information page for updates.

Final Takeaways and Practical Guidance

• No fee waiver is available for Form I-485. All applicants must pay the full filing fee and any biometric services fee.
• Do not submit Form I-912 with your I-485 application. It will not be accepted.
• Plan ahead and seek help if needed. If you cannot afford the fee, look for nonprofit or legal aid organizations that may be able to help.
• Stay informed. Check the USCIS website for any future changes to the policy.

Applying for a green card is a big step, and the cost can be high. By understanding the rules about the filing fee and USCIS fee waiver policy for Form I-485, you can avoid mistakes and make the process smoother. Always use official sources for the most up-to-date information, and don’t hesitate to reach out to trusted organizations for support if you need it.

Learn Today

Form I-485 → Application used to adjust status to lawful permanent resident within the U.S.
USCIS → United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, responsible for immigration processing and policies.
Fee waiver → An exemption that allows eligible applicants to avoid paying certain USCIS fees.
Biometric services fee → Fee for fingerprinting, photographs, and background checks required in some applications.
Adjustment of status → Process to change immigration status to permanent residence without leaving the U.S.

This Article in a Nutshell

USCIS strictly prohibits fee waivers for Form I-485, making the filing fee a mandatory cost for green card applicants. This policy, unchanged since 2007, impacts thousands, requiring applicants to fully pay fees or seek external financial help before applying for adjustment of status.
— By VisaVerge.com