The cost of filing for a parents green card varies widely, depending on whether the process is done through consular processing or adjustment of status. Typical expenses include filing fees, NVC and medical costs, and potential attorney charges. The main cost drivers are petition fees, visa processing costs, medical exams, and travel. This guide provides cost ranges in USD and exact price items to help plan a budget.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I-130 Petition Fee | $535 | $535 | $535 | Required to start family-based petition. |
| NVC/Processing Fees | $260 | $260 | $260 | Includes DS-260 processing and related fees. |
| AFFIDAVIT OF SUPPORT Fee | $120 | $120 | $120 | Paid to the National Visa Center. |
| Immigrant Visa Application Fee | $325 | $325 | $325 | Per applicant; paid to DOS. |
| Medical Examination | $200 | $350 | $600 | Varies by country and physician. |
| Biometrics (If Applicable) | $0 | $0 | $85 | Typically for certain stages; often not charged for immigrant visas. |
| Attorney/Representation (optional) | $0 | $1,000 | $3,000 | Depends on complexity and region. |
| Travel & Misc. Costs | $0 | $500 | $2,000 | Inclusive of travel for consular interview or appointments. |
Assumptions: region, applicant consular vs. adjustment, and standard medical exam with no special medical issues.
Overview Of Costs
Typical cost range for filing for parents green cards spans from roughly $1,000 to $5,000 per parent, depending on processing path and extra services. The “per applicant” costs include the I-130 petition, NVC processing, and the immigrant visa application. Additional costs such as medical exams, travel, and optional legal help can push totals higher.
Cost Breakdown
Breakdown by main cost categories helps buyers see where money goes.
| Category | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petition & Visa Fees | $860 | $1,100 | $1,000 | I-130 plus immigrant visa filing and processing. |
| Medical Exam | $200 | $350 | $600 | Depends on country and physician’s rates. |
| Attorney/Consultation | $0 | $1,000 | $3,000 | |
| Travel & Misc. | $0 | $500 | $2,000 | |
| Contingencies | $0 | $100 | $1,000 | |
| Total (per parent) | $1,060 | $2,950 | $7,200 |
Formula: labor hours × hourly_rate not applicable; administrative steps only.
What Drives Price
Pricing varies with processing path, country-specific medical fees, and whether legal help is used. The two main paths are consular processing (through a U.S. embassy or consulate) and adjustment of status (AOS) if the parent is already in the U.S. on a qualifying visa. Costs differ because AOS typically requires I-485 and biometrics, while consular processing centers on visa issuance and medicals abroad.
Key drivers to watch
- Processing path: Consular processing vs. AOS changes total fees.
- Medical exam country: Prices vary significantly; some clinics charge more for additional tests.
- Attorney costs: Hourly rates or flat fees; regional variation matters.
- Additional services: Expedited reviews, translations, document authentication.
Factors That Affect Price
Regional price differences influence both government fees and third-party services. Local attorney rates, medical facility pricing, and embassy processing times can push totals higher in certain markets. The pace of processing can also affect waiting costs, especially if travel plans shift due to interview scheduling.
Pricing Variables
- Country-specific medical exam fees and required tests.
- Whether biometrics are collected and at what stage.
- Need for translation or apostille services for documents.
- Attorney involvement level and geographic location.
Ways To Save
Smart budgeting can reduce unnecessary costs without delaying processing. Compare prices from multiple clinics, verify fee structures with the consulate, and assess whether legal help is essential for the case. Planning ahead for medical appointments and document preparation can minimize last-minute charges.
Budget Tips
- Obtain multiple medical exam quotes and ask about bundled fees.
- Prepare documents in advance to avoid translation or authentication delays.
- Consider a initial consultation with an immigration attorney to gauge necessity of representation.
- Account for potential travel costs if interviews occur internationally.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region and urban vs rural settings within the U.S. Government fees are fixed, but third-party services differ. Below are three regional examples to illustrate typical spreads in the private market and service costs.
Urban vs Suburban vs Rural (illustrative)
- Urban centers: higher attorney rates, medical exam costs toward the high end; likely toward the average or high range.
- Suburban areas: mid-range pricing for services; often closer to averages.
- Rural areas: lower attorney rates but can require longer travel for interviews and exams; occasional higher travel costs.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical budgets for different preferences and complexities. Each includes a brief specs outline, labor assumptions, per-unit costs, and totals.
Basic Scenario
- Specs: Consular processing; standard medical; no attorney.
- Labor hours: 3-5 hours for document gathering and filing reviews.
- Per-unit prices: I-130 $535; Visa $325; Medical $250.
- Total: $1,350–$1,600.
Mid-Range Scenario
- Specs: Consular processing; medical and translations; moderate attorney support.
- Labor hours: 8–12 hours across steps.
- Per-unit prices: I-130 $535; DS-260 processing $260; Medical $350; Attorney $1,000.
- Total: $2,000–$3,000.
Premium Scenario
- Specs: AOS path; comprehensive attorney package; expedited handling where available.
- Labor hours: 15–25 hours; translations and document prep included.
- Per-unit prices: I-130 $535; I-485 $1,140; AOS-related $85; Attorney $2,500+
- Total: $5,000–$7,000.
Price At A Glance
Bottom-line ranges help buyers set expectations for the cost of filing for a parent’s green card. Basic paths stay near the low end; more complex routes and professional services push totals toward the high end. Always confirm current fees with official sources and any providers before starting.