Is the I-485 Filing Fee Different for a 13-Year-Old Versus a 15-Year-Old?

Dive Right Into

Key Takeaways

• Form I-485 fee is $950 for children under 14 filing with a parent, $1,540 otherwise.
• Filing Form I-485 together saves $590 for each child under 14 years old.
• USCIS raised Form I-485 fees in April 2024 to cover higher processing costs.

When families in the United States 🇺🇸 seek to adjust their immigration status and become lawful permanent residents, one of the most important steps is filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This form is the main way for people already in the United States 🇺🇸 to apply for a green card, which allows them to live and work in the country permanently. However, the cost of filing Form I-485 can be confusing, especially for families with children. The fee depends on the age of the applicant and whether the child is filing together with a parent. Understanding these rules is important for families who want to save money and avoid mistakes.

This guide explains in simple language how the USCIS Fee for Form I-485 works for children, especially those under 14 years old, and compares the costs for a 13-year-old and a 15-year-old. It also covers eligibility, requirements, the filing process, and practical tips for families. Real-life examples and official resources are included to help you make the best decisions for your family’s immigration journey.

Is the I-485 Filing Fee Different for a 13-Year-Old Versus a 15-Year-Old?

What Is Form I-485?

Form I-485 is the official application used by people in the United States 🇺🇸 to ask for a green card. A green card lets someone live and work in the country permanently. People use this form if they are already in the United States 🇺🇸 and want to change their status from a temporary visa (like a student or visitor visa) to permanent resident status.

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

Who Needs to File Form I-485?

You need to file Form I-485 if:

You are in the United States 🇺🇸 and want to become a lawful permanent resident (get a green card).
You are eligible through a family member, employer, asylum, refugee status, or other special programs.
You have an approved immigrant petition (like Form I-130 for family or Form I-140 for employment).

Children often file Form I-485 together with their parents, especially if the whole family is applying for green cards at the same time.

How Does Age Affect the USCIS Fee for Form I-485?

The USCIS Fee for Form I-485 is not the same for everyone. The fee depends on two main things:

The age of the person applying
Whether the child is filing at the same time as a parent

Let’s break down the rules:

Fee for Applicants Under 14 Years Old

If a child is under 14 years old and files Form I-485 at the same time as a parent, the fee is $950.
This is a special, lower fee to help families who are applying together.
The lower fee only applies if the child’s application is filed at the same time as at least one parent’s application.

Fee for Applicants 14 Years and Older

If the applicant is 14 years old or older, the fee is $1,540.
This is the standard fee for most people filing Form I-485.
This fee includes the cost for biometric services (fingerprints and photos).

What If a Child Under 14 Files Alone?

If a child under 14 years old files Form I-485 without a parent filing at the same time, the fee is $1,540 (the same as for adults).
The lower fee only applies if the child and parent file together.

Why Is There a Fee Difference?

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) sets these fees to cover the cost of processing applications. The lower fee for children under 14 filing with a parent is meant to make it easier for families to apply for green cards together. This policy helps reduce the financial burden on families, especially those with several children.

According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, this fee structure reflects the government’s effort to support family unity while also covering the costs of processing immigration applications.

Real-World Example: 13-Year-Old vs. 15-Year-Old

Let’s look at two common situations to see how the fee rules work in real life.

Example 1: 13-Year-Old Filing With a Parent

Maria is 13 years old.
Her mother is also applying for a green card.
They both file Form I-485 at the same time.

Maria’s fee: $950 (reduced fee for children under 14 filing with a parent)

Example 2: 15-Year-Old Filing

David is 15 years old.
He is applying for a green card.
He files Form I-485, either with his parent or alone.

David’s fee: $1,540 (standard fee for applicants 14 years and older)

Example 3: 13-Year-Old Filing Alone

Sarah is 13 years old.
Her parents are not filing for green cards at the same time.
She files Form I-485 by herself.

Sarah’s fee: $1,540 (because she is not filing with a parent, the reduced fee does not apply)

Step-by-Step: How to Decide Which Fee Applies

If you are filing Form I-485 for a child, follow these steps to figure out the correct fee:

Check the child’s age on the day you file.
- If the child is under 14 years old, go to step 2.
- If the child is 14 or older, the fee is $1,540.
Is the child filing at the same time as a parent?
- If yes, the fee is $950.
- If no, the fee is $1,540.
Prepare payment for the correct amount.
- Make sure to include the biometric services fee if required (usually included in the total fee).
Follow USCIS payment instructions.
- You can pay by check, money order, or credit card (using Form G-1450).
Double-check before sending.
- If you pay the wrong fee, USCIS may reject your application or delay processing.

Historical Background: How Fees Have Changed

For many years, the USCIS Fee for Form I-485 stayed the same. The last big change before 2024 was in 2016. In January 2024, USCIS announced a new rule that increased fees for many immigration forms, including Form I-485.

Before April 2024: The fee for children under 14 filing with a parent was $750.
After April 2024: The fee increased to $950 for children under 14 filing with a parent, and $1,540 for everyone else (including children under 14 filing alone and all applicants 14 and older).

USCIS explained that these changes were needed to cover higher costs and to keep the immigration system running smoothly. Officials also said that keeping a lower fee for children under 14 filing with a parent helps families and supports children’s access to permanent residency.

Why Filing Together Matters for Families

Filing Form I-485 together as a family can save money. If you have a child who is under 14 years old, it is usually best to file their application at the same time as at least one parent. This way, you pay the lower fee of $950 instead of $1,540.

Key points for families:

Filing together saves $590 per child under 14.
If you wait until your child turns 14, you lose the chance for the lower fee.
If you file for the child alone (without a parent), you pay the full fee, even if the child is under 14.

Practical Tips for Filing Form I-485 for Children

Plan ahead: If your child is close to turning 14, try to file before their birthday to get the lower fee.
File together: Whenever possible, file your child’s Form I-485 at the same time as a parent’s application.
Check the latest fees: Fees can change. Always check the USCIS Fee Schedule before filing.
Include the right payment: If you pay the wrong amount, your application may be delayed or rejected.
Keep records: Save copies of all forms, checks, and receipts for your records.
Ask for help if needed: If you are not sure about the fee or process, contact the USCIS Contact Center or speak with an immigration lawyer.

What Does the Fee Cover?

The USCIS Fee for Form I-485 covers the cost of processing your application. For most people, it also includes the biometric services fee. Biometric services mean that USCIS will take your fingerprints, photo, and signature. This is used to check your background and confirm your identity.

For applicants under 14 filing with a parent, the $950 fee includes biometrics.
For applicants 14 and older, the $1,540 fee includes biometrics.

Rights and Pathways After Filing Form I-485

Once you file Form I-485, you may have certain rights and options:

Work Authorization: You can apply for a work permit (Form I-765) while your I-485 is pending.
Travel Authorization: You can apply for advance parole (Form I-131) to travel outside the United States 🇺🇸 while waiting for your green card.
Stay in the United States 🇺🇸: You can usually stay in the country while your application is being processed.

If your Form I-485 is approved, you become a lawful permanent resident and receive a green card. This allows you to live, work, and study in the United States 🇺🇸 permanently.

Comparing USCIS Fee for Children and Adults

Here’s a simple chart to show the differences:

Applicant Type	Fee (as of April 2024)
Child under 14, filing with a parent	$950
Child under 14, filing alone	$1,540
Applicant 14 years or older	$1,540

Note: Always check the official USCIS Form I-485 page for the most current fee information.

Stakeholder Perspectives

Immigration lawyers say the lower fee for children under 14 filing with a parent helps families who might otherwise struggle to pay for everyone’s green card applications at once. Advocates for immigrants believe this policy is important for keeping families together and making sure children have a fair chance at permanent residency.

USCIS officials have explained that the fee increases in 2024 were necessary because the costs of processing applications have gone up. However, they kept the lower fee for children under 14 filing with a parent to help families and protect children.

What If You Pay the Wrong Fee?

If you send the wrong fee with your Form I-485, USCIS may reject your application or send it back to you. This can cause delays and extra stress. Always double-check the fee before you file. If you are not sure, use the USCIS Fee Calculator or call the USCIS Contact Center at 1-800-375-5283.

Future Changes to Fees

As of now, there are no announced changes to the fee structure for minors since the April 2024 update. However, fees can change in the future, especially if USCIS needs more money to cover its costs. It’s important to stay updated by checking the USCIS Fee Rule FAQ and other official sources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I pay the Form I-485 fee online?
A: Yes, if you file online, you can pay by credit card, debit card, or bank transfer. If you file by mail, you can pay by check, money order, or credit card (using Form G-1450).

Q: What happens if my child turns 14 after filing but before the application is processed?
A: The fee is based on the child’s age at the time of filing. If you file before the child turns 14, you pay the lower fee.

Q: Do I need to pay a separate biometric services fee?
A: No, the biometric services fee is included in the total fee for Form I-485.

Actionable Takeaways

File Form I-485 for children under 14 together with a parent to save money.
Check the child’s age on the day you file to determine the correct fee.
Always use the latest fee schedule from the official USCIS website.
Keep copies of all forms and payments for your records.
Contact USCIS or an immigration lawyer if you have questions.

Where to Find More Information

For the most accurate and up-to-date information about Form I-485, fees, and filing instructions, visit the official USCIS Form I-485 page.

If you need help, you can also contact the USCIS Contact Center or call 1-800-375-5283.

In summary, the fee for Form I-485 depends on the age of the applicant and whether a child is filing with a parent. A 13-year-old filing with a parent pays $950, while a 15-year-old pays $1,540. Filing together as a family before a child turns 14 can save hundreds of dollars. Always check the latest rules and fees before filing, and use official resources to guide your application. This approach helps families save money and avoid delays on the path to permanent residency in the United States 🇺🇸.

Learn Today

Form I-485 → Application to adjust immigration status to lawful permanent resident from within the U.S.
USCIS Fee → The required payment submitted with Form I-485 to process the application.
Biometric Services → Fingerprinting, photo, and signature collection to verify applicant identity.
Lawful Permanent Resident → An immigrant authorized to live and work permanently in the U.S.
Advance Parole → Permission to travel outside the U.S. while Form I-485 is pending.

This Article in a Nutshell

Form I-485 allows immigrants in the U.S. to apply for green cards. Fees depend on age and filing with parents, affecting families financially and legally. Understanding fee differences can save money, especially for children under 14 filing with a parent, who pay a discounted fee of $950 versus $1,540 for others.
— By VisaVerge.com