Petitioning a relative to join you in the United States entails multiple processes, with charges varying based on the type of petition and the relative you are supporting. This tutorial will provide a full overview of how much does it cost to petition a relative for US immigration by filing Form I-130.
How Much Does It Cost to Petition a Relative (by Filing Form I-130)?
Filing Form I-130, the Petition for Alien Relative, is the initial step toward bringing a family member to the United States as a permanent resident. The costs associated with this process include the filing fee, additional expenditures for obtaining supporting papers, and even legal fees if you want to retain an attorney.
1.Filing Fee for Form I-130:
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- As of 2024, the Form I-130 application fee is $535. This cost is required for each petition that you submit. For example, if you are petitioning both your spouse and a child, you must file two separate I-130 petitions and pay $535 each.
- Fees are subject to change, thus the most up-to-date fee information can be found on the USCIS website or in the Form I-130 instructions.
2.Costs of supporting documents:
- Translation Costs: If any of your supporting documents are not in English, you must supply certified translations. The cost of translation services varies greatly based on the quantity of documents and the language.
- Copying and mailing costs: You may be charged for making copies of your documents and mailing them to USCIS. While these expenses are often low, they might mount up depending on the number of documents necessary.
- Passport Photos: Some applications demand passport-sized photos, which normally cost between $10 and $15 each set.
3.Legal fees:
- While it is not needed, many candidates opt to work with an immigration attorney to complete the Form I-130 process. Legal fees might range from $1,000 and $3,000 or more, depending on the complexity of your case and the attorney’s rates.
4.Medical Exam:
- If your relative is abroad, they must have a medical checkup by an approved physician before their visa can be given. The cost of this exam varies by region, but it normally runs between $200 and $500.
5.Visa Application Fees:
- If your relative is not already in the United States, they must apply for an immigrant visa once Form I-130 is authorized. The visa application fee is usually approximately $325, payable to the United States Department of State.
6.Other Potential Costs:
- Affidavit of Support: When sponsoring a relative, you may also be required to submit Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, to demonstrate your ability to financially support your relative. Form I-864 has no filing charge, however you may be required to submit copies of your most recent tax returns, which may incur additional costs.
What Are the Marriage Green Card Income Requirements?
When requesting a spouse for a marriage-based green card, you must show that you meet specific income standards to guarantee that your partner does not become a public charge. The marriage green card requirements are outlined in Form I-864, Affidavit of Support.
1.Minimum Income Requirements:
- The minimal income criterion is based on the federal poverty rules, which are adjusted every year. As of 2024, the general guideline states that your household income must be at least 125% of the federal poverty line for your household size.
- For example, if your household comprises yourself, your spouse, and two children, you must meet the income threshold for a family of four. In 2024, the 125% threshold for a four-person household is approximately $34,687 per year.
2.Household Size:
- Your household size comprises you, your spouse, any dependent children, any other dependents shown on your tax return, and the relative you are sponsoring.
3.Using Assets to Meet Income Requirements:
- If your income falls below the required level, you can use assets to make up the shortfall. Assets can include savings accounts, stocks, bonds, and real estate. The value of the assets must be at least five times the difference between your income and the statutory amount.
4.Joint Sponsors:
- If your income and assets are insufficient, you can seek a shared sponsor. A joint sponsor must have the same income as the primary sponsor and must also file Form I-864.
5.The public charge rule:
- The public charge rule requires the petitioning sponsor to establish adequate income or assets to assure that the immigrant does not need public help. Failure to meet the income standards may result in the rejection of the green card application.
Asking a relative for a green card is not a cheap affair; the expenses can be prohibitive to many people. Ways and means are needed for paying filing fees, legal fees and other incidental costs which are incurred in the process. However, one should also ensure that he or she satisfies the income test requirements for the marriage-based green card so that there are no problems with the case. Knowing these costs and requisites will enable one to be in a better position to prepare to have his or her relative join him or her in the United States. As much as possible, refer to the latest guidelines on USCIS and it is advisable to consult an immigration lawyer.
