How Much Does It Cost to Become a US Citizen Through Marriage?

Becoming a U.S. citizen through marriage involves navigating a detailed legal process, including obtaining a green card and later applying for naturalization. One of the most common questions people have is, “How much does it cost to become a U.S. citizen through marriage?”

This article will break down the various fees and associated costs involved in this process to help you prepare financially and understand what to expect.

Key Costs in the Process of Becoming a U.S. Citizen Through Marriage

Marriage-Based Green Card Application Fees
Before becoming a U.S. citizen, you must first obtain lawful permanent residency (a green card). The costs associated with this stage include:
- Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): $625 (online), $675 (paper)
  This form is filed by the U.S. citizen spouse to establish the qualifying relationship with the foreign spouse.
- Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status): $1,440
  For applicants already in the U.S. on a different visa status, this form allows them to apply for a green card without having to leave the country. This fee covers the cost of processing the application.
- Biometrics Fee: $85
  The biometrics fee covers fingerprinting, photographs, and signature collection, which are required to run a background check on the applicant.
- Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support): No additional fee
  The sponsor (the U.S. citizen spouse) must submit this form to prove they can financially support the foreign spouse. There is no filing fee, but preparing the necessary financial documents may involve administrative costs.
Naturalization Application Fees (Becoming a U.S. Citizen)
Once you have held your green card for at least three years (and meet other requirements), you can apply for naturalization to become a U.S. citizen through marriage. The key costs at this stage include:
- Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization): $710 (online), $760 (paper)
  This includes an application fee and an additional biometrics fee.

Other Potential Costs to Consider

While the official fees are straightforward, additional costs may arise, including:

Immigration Attorney Fees:
If you choose to work with an immigration attorney, expect to pay for their services. Fees vary depending on the complexity of your case, but you can expect to pay between $2,000 and $5,000 or more for comprehensive legal assistance throughout the marriage-based green card and naturalization processes.
Medical Examination Fee:
Part of the green card application involves a medical exam conducted by a USCIS-approved physician. The cost for this exam typically ranges from $200 to $500, depending on the location and specific tests required.
Translation and Document Fees:
Any documents not in English must be translated and certified. Translation services can range from $20 to $50 per page, depending on the provider.
Travel Expenses for Consular Processing (if applicable):
If the foreign spouse is applying for a green card from outside the U.S., consular processing will involve travel to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for an interview. Depending on the location, travel expenses can be significant.

Tips to Manage Costs

Apply for a Fee Waiver:
If your income is below a certain threshold, you may qualify for a fee waiver for the N-400 application. Use Form I-912 to request a fee waiver for the naturalization process.
Consider Legal Aid or Non-Profit Assistance:
Some non-profit organizations and legal aid groups offer reduced-cost or even free immigration services. These organizations can be a great resource for couples who need help navigating the legal process but cannot afford traditional attorney fees.
Plan for Adjustments in Fees:
USCIS fees occasionally change, so it’s essential to stay updated on the latest fee schedules. For instance, fee increases are sometimes proposed due to operational changes at USCIS.

Breakdown of Total Estimated Costs

For a simplified view, here’s a cost breakdown of the major expenses in the marriage-to-citizenship process:

Cost Category	Estimated Fee
Form I-130	$625
Form I-485	$1,440
Biometrics Fee	$85
Medical Exam	$200–$500
Attorney Fees	$2,000–$5,000
Form N-400	$710-760
Translation Fees	$20–$50 per page

Total Estimated Costs (Without Attorney Fees): $3300+

Total Estimated Costs (With Attorney Fees): $5,000+

Frequently Asked Questions