Immigration can be a long, overwhelming process. Not only do those coming to the United States have to deal with the paperwork and bureaucracy involved in getting permission to stay, but they also need to consider their finances before taking such a big leap.
With taxes, fees, and other expenses potentially arising during your journey or after you settle down—what are the costs of immigration that people should expect?
This article focuses on what to expect financially when immigrating into the United States
The cost of immigration into the U.S. may vary depending on a person’s situation and the country they are coming from. The process of immigration can cost between $4000 to $12,000. Here is a breakdown of the immigration costs:
When applying to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the cost of the application fee varies depending on the type of residency application being submitted.
Generally, an application for nonimmigrant status is less expensive than an application for immigrant status. For example, in 2021, the fee for a nonimmigrant worker petition is $460, while the fee for an immigrant worker petition is $700.
The amount of money required to pay for a petition fee varies based on the type of application being submitted. No fee is required for asylum seekers, but for all other petitions, a set fee must be paid.
Hiring a lawyer is not a requirement when applying for immigration; however, it can make the process more manageable due to the frequent changes in immigration laws.
The cost for an immigration lawyer to handle an H-1B visa typically ranges from $3,000 to $4,000. The fees can increase significantly to around $10,000 if there are additional complications, such as deportation. Petitions related to family-based immigration usually cost between $800 and $4000.
All individuals who plan to enter the United States must undergo a medical examination and receive specific vaccinations. The required vaccinations include those for mumps, measles, rubella, and polio. The total cost for these vaccinations and the physical examination can easily range from $300 to about $1,000.
Once an individual has obtained permanent resident status, they may become a naturalized citizen. As a permanent resident, one is allowed to vote and apply for family members to join.
For processing applications and biometric services, the fee for Naturalization is currently $640 – $725. The biometric fee does not apply to people under 14 years of age or over 70 years of age.
Prior to taking the citizenship exam, it can be beneficial to take a training course. The cost for these programs varies between providers. It is crucial to do thorough research and select the best company when taking a training course.
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) maintains a list of schools and organizations that offer training courses. Some of these courses come with a cost, while others may be free of charge.
If you have a history of immigration issues or a criminal record, it may be necessary to provide additional documentation or hire legal help. Additionally, it is important to factor in expenses
such as postage, travel, and any other miscellaneous costs that may be incurred while traveling from your country of origin.
Immigrating to the United States can be complicated and expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. With knowledge of the costs and fees associated with immigration and a clear plan for resources, those seeking to move here can make the transition easier and help ensure that they and their families are financially secure.
Whether you’re looking for permanent residency or just visiting temporarily, understanding the financial implications of immigration is essential to protect yourself and your family in this new country.
EZ Immigration Help is here to help you navigate the process and provide detailed advice on the cost of your immigration journey. Contact us today to get started on your new life in the United States!