Concern: How much does getting an Adjustment of Status (AOS) cost and how long does it take?

∇ legal contemplator

Alright, let's delve into the intricacies of obtaining an Adjustment of Status (AOS) in the United States, focusing on both the financial and temporal aspects. This process allows individuals already present in the U.S. to transition from a nonimmigrant status to that of a lawful permanent resident, commonly known as obtaining a green card.

1. Breakdown of Costs:

Form I-485 Filing Fee: The primary form for AOS is Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. As of the latest information, the filing fee for this form is $1,140. Additionally, applicants between the ages of 14 and 78 are required to pay an $85 biometrics fee, bringing the total to $1,225.
Employment Authorization Document (EAD) - Form I-765: Previously, when Form I-765 was filed concurrently with Form I-485, the fee was often waived. However, recent discussions suggest that separate fees may now apply. The proposed fee for Form I-765 is approximately $550.
Advance Parole (AP) - Form I-131: Similar to the EAD, the fee waiver for Form I-131 when filed with Form I-485 might no longer be in effect. The proposed fee for Form I-131 is around $630.
Medical Examination: A mandatory medical examination by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon is required. The cost varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $200 to $500.
Additional Costs: There might be other expenses, such as obtaining certified copies of required documents, translation services if your documents are not in English, and legal fees if you choose to hire an attorney.

2. Processing Time:

The duration for the AOS process can vary based on several factors, including the applicant's specific circumstances and the USCIS field office handling the case. On average, the process takes approximately 9.8 months for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens. However, this timeline can be longer depending on individual situations and USCIS workload.

3. Recent Developments:

It's important to note that USCIS periodically updates its fee structure and processing procedures. For instance, discussions in early 2023 indicated potential fee increases and changes in the bundling of fees for concurrently filed forms. While some of these were proposals, it's crucial to verify the current fees and policies on the official USCIS website or consult with an immigration attorney to ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Final Answer:

Obtaining an Adjustment of Status in the United States involves several costs, with the primary expense being the Form I-485 filing fee of $1,140, plus an $85 biometrics fee, totaling $1,225. Additional fees for Employment Authorization (Form I-765) and Advance Parole (Form I-131) may apply, each ranging from approximately $550 to $630, depending on the latest USCIS fee schedule. The overall processing time averages around 9.8 months but can vary based on individual circumstances and USCIS workload. Given potential changes in fees and procedures, it's advisable to consult the official USCIS website or seek legal counsel for the most current information.