The USA is one of the most popular countries in the world to immigrate to. Despite its popularity, for many, becoming a U.S. permanent resident or a citizen is a long and costly process. If we sum up all the specific payments towards acquiring citizenship in the USA, the total ranges from $4,000 to $11,300. However, most people end up spending between $6,000 and $8,000. This is a major expense, and financial preparation is a vital aspect of the migration journey.
While the USA is a beautiful country with a lot to see and do, it’s not for everyone. If you’re wanting to try a less permanent (cheaper!) route, why not try the J-1 program? It will allow you to get a feel of the American workplace for a 12-month training period, so you can decide later on if it’s for you. The program allows you to work at some of the most luxurious and iconic hotels and Michelin-star restaurants in the USA. If you’re searching for a career-changing experience, learn more about our programs here.
Now, the costs of immigrating to the USA can vary but below are some of the most important. So without further ado, let’s begin!
USCIS Form Filing Fees
USCIS = The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services.
This is a component of the United States Department of Homeland Security. When you apply to the USCIS, there are various fees involved in the process. The filing fee depends on the form of the application for residence. Request for a non-immigrant status is typically easier than an immigrant petition.
Petition Fees
The fee for petitions varies from one application to another. Typically the fees vary between $300 to $600, depending on the type of application submitted.
Attorney’s Fees
Hiring a lawyer is not a prerequisite for immigration, but hiring one will help push the process forward, particularly given the frequent changes in immigration laws.
The standard legal fees for an immigration lawyer range from $3,000 to $4,000 for an H-1B visa This is a U.S. visa under Section 101 of the Immigration and Nationality Act that permits U.S. employers to temporarily hire foreign employees in specialized occupations. Fees can easily rise to $10,000 if you have a deportation issue. Family-based petitions usually cost between $800 and $1,500.
Medical and Vaccination Costs
The US requires applicants to undergo a medical examination and receive vaccinations for certain diseases before they immigrate. You are required to be vaccinated for diseases such as mumps, measles, rubella, and polio. The average cost of these vaccines, plus a physical test, will be about $1,000.
Naturalizing Application
You can consider yourself a naturalized citizen after being a permanent resident. As a resident, you can vote and petition your family.
The Naturalization Fee is currently between $640 – $725 for processing applications and $85 for biometric services. Applicants under 14 years of age and over 70 years of age do not have to pay the biometric fee.
Citizenship Test Prep Materials
Before taking a citizenship exam, it may be useful to take a training lesson. Program fees vary from one provider to another. Before you commit, make sure to do your research and choose the best company! The USCIS has a directory of colleges and organizations providing training courses – some are paid programs and others are free.
