Immigration attorney fees can differ dramatically, depending on the complexity and experience of each case, where their lawyer practices, as well as services provided.
An immigration attorney can make the process of immigrating to the US much smoother. They can assist with filling out forms, applying for visas and preparing interviews.
Fees for filing the application
Legal assistance typically ranges between $500 and $2,500 to assist with filing USCIS citizenship papers, with fees depending on complexity and type of application, attorney experience and reputation, etc. To find an experienced lawyer that has dealt with cases similar to your own it is vital.
An additional fingerprint fee must also be paid; these non-refundable fees depend on household size and income, with CitizenPath helping determine your eligibility for fee waiver or reduction programs.
Payment of the filing and biometrics fee can be made using credit card, personal check, money order or cashier’s check. Please ensure that your payment includes the correct amount; otherwise USCIS will return your N-400 and require you to resubmit it with correct fee amount.
Fees for biometrics
Once you’ve paid the biometrics fee and submitted your application, USCIS will send an appointment notice detailing when and where to go for fingerprinting. Most likely it will take place at one of their Application Support Centers (ASCs), located throughout the U.S.; you can locate your nearest ASC using their Service and Office Locator tool.
The ASC will collect your photo, signature and index finger press prints during their fingerprinting sessions; digital photos may also be taken for use with cards like green cards or employment authorization documents. Rest assured that any such sessions remain strictly confidential so no one taking your prints knows anything about your application or visa status.
Processing times after biometrics vary based on your ASC and application type. Some cases can take months or even years for their response from ASC; an immigration lawyer can help provide insight as to when you can expect this process to conclude.
Fees for the interview
Becoming a US citizen may be expensive, yet still achievable. If you can afford it, Boundless provides nonprofit Department of Justice-accredited organizations that offer citizenship assistance at free or reduced costs – something we recommend if the cost becomes an obstacle to achievement.
After filing Form N-400, the next step in becoming a naturalized citizen is passing your naturalization interview. This requires demonstrating an understanding of English and U.S. history and government as well as taking an English and civics test; if this proves too challenging, an exemption or waiver application may be made available to you.
Immigration attorneys typically charge a flat fee for most standard cases. It’s important to discuss this fee with your lawyer prior to signing any contract; some are open to negotiation if your case is straightforward or financial hardship can be demonstrated; plus many provide payment plans.
Fees for a citizenship certificate
Citizenship certificates are used to demonstrate United States citizenship. Citizenship certificates can be utilized when applying for passports, state ID documents or Social Security benefits, with an application fee of $1385. Exceptions may be granted for active-duty military members or veterans as well as children born from parents who were both US citizens at the time.
USCIS’ new fee schedule has significantly raised the costs associated with becoming a citizen of the United States for some applicants, raising some fees while decreasing others in order to “fully recover costs and maintain adequate service.” Filing Form N-400 rose 19%; however, federal judge has temporarily stopped this increase from happening. Rising fees may make citizenship harder for low-income people as well as increasing expenses associated with travel to appointments and translation of foreign papers.