ADVERTISEMENT

Marry a US Citizen and Get Green Card: $1,760 Cost Breakdown

    Love has no borders—but immigration processes certainly do. If you’re planning to marry a US citizen and get a green card, it’s important to know what to expect—especially when it comes to costs. One common figure you’ll hear is $1,760—but what exactly does that cover?

    ADVERTISEMENT

    In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the $1,760 green card cost breakdown, help you understand each fee involved, and explain how the process works—from saying “I do” to receiving your permanent resident card.

    Whether you’re just exploring your options or are already engaged to a US citizen, this guide is for you.

    Can You Really Get a Green Card by Marrying a US Citizen?

    Yes, you can—but not instantly. When a non-US citizen marries a US citizen, they become eligible to apply for a marriage-based green card, which grants lawful permanent residency in the United States.

    This process involves multiple government forms, fees, and background checks. Although love may be free, the path to a green card isn’t.

    USA Visa Lottery 2025 with Free Green Card and Work Permit

    The $1,760 Green Card Cost: What It Really Covers

    The $1,760 figure is the official filing fee when applying for a green card from within the United States (also called Adjustment of Status).

    Let’s break down that cost:

    Form I-130 — Petition for Alien Relative ($535)

    This form is filed by the US citizen spouse to establish the relationship. It tells USCIS, “Hey, I’m married to this person, and they should be eligible for a green card.”

    • Cost: $535

    • Filed by: US citizen spouse

    • Purpose: Establish a bona fide (real) marital relationship

    Form I-485 — Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status ($1,140)

    Once the marriage is established, the foreign spouse files this form to apply for their green card.

    • Cost: $1,140

    • Filed by: Foreign spouse

    • Purpose: Adjust status from non-resident to lawful permanent resident

    Biometrics Appointment Fee ($85)

    USCIS requires a biometric screening—this means fingerprints, photos, and a background check.

    • Cost: $85

    • Filed by: Foreign spouse

    • Purpose: Security check and identification

    Total: $1,760

    • $535 (Form I-130)

    • $1,140 (Form I-485)

    • $85 (Biometrics)

    RECOMMENDED FOR YOU:

    Note: These fees are current as of 2025 and apply only if the foreign spouse is already in the US and applying for a green card through adjustment of status. If you’re applying from outside the US through consular processing, the fees are slightly different (typically around $1,200–$1,400).

    Additional Costs You Might Not Expect

    While the $1,760 is the base government fee, other hidden or optional costs can add up:

    Medical Examination ($200–$500)

    Before approval, the immigrant spouse must complete a USCIS-approved medical exam.

    • Done by a certified civil surgeon

    • Required for I-485 approval

    Translation and Document Preparation ($100–$300)

    If your documents are in a language other than English, you’ll need certified translations.

    • Birth certificates, marriage certificates, police records, etc.

    Immigration Lawyer (Optional, $1,500–$4,000+)

    Hiring an immigration attorney can help avoid mistakes but adds a significant cost.

    • Ideal for complex cases or those with past immigration violations

    Timeline: How Long Does It Take to Get a Green Card After Marriage?

    Processing times vary depending on where you live and your case specifics. But here’s a rough timeline:

    Step Estimated Time
    Receipt of application 2–4 weeks
    Biometrics appointment 3–8 weeks
    Work/travel permit (if filed together) 3–6 months
    Interview + final decision 10–20 months

    Average total time: 10–16 monthsImportant Tips to Avoid Delays or Rejections

    Getting a green card through marriage involves proving the relationship is real and ongoing. USCIS is known to scrutinize marriage-based applications to prevent fraud.

    Tips for Success:

    • Submit strong evidence: Photos, joint bank accounts, lease agreements, travel tickets, messages

    • Attend your interview fully prepared: Be honest and consistent

    • Update USCIS about any change of address

    • Avoid errors on forms: Even small mistakes can delay your case

    What Happens After Approval?

    If your green card is approved:

    • You’ll receive a 2-year conditional green card (if married less than 2 years)

    • After two years, you must file to remove conditions (Form I-751)

    • Then you receive a 10-year green card

    • After 3 years of marriage + green card, you can apply for US citizenship

    Common Questions About Marrying a US Citizen and Green Card Costs

    Can I work while waiting for my green card?

    Yes—if you file Form I-765 for a work permit (EAD) along with your green card application. No extra fee is required when filed together.

    Can I travel outside the US while waiting?

    Only if you also file Form I-131 (Advance Parole). It’s free if submitted with Form I-485.

    Can I apply from outside the US?

    Yes, through Consular Processing. The cost is different (approx. $1,200–$1,400), and processing is done through a US embassy.

    Conclusion: Know the Costs, Embrace the Process

    Marrying a US citizen opens the door to permanent residency, but it comes with paperwork, patience, and yes—$1,760 in core fees. Understanding the full breakdown helps you prepare financially and emotionally for the journey ahead.

    This isn’t just a transaction—it’s about building a future with someone you love while navigating the rules of US immigration. With the right preparation and genuine intentions, it’s a path many couples walk successfully every year.

    You May Also Like