Quick Scoop
A green card is not something you buy outright; the cost
usually means the government filing fees plus medical exams and, if needed,
legal help. In 2026, a family-based green card commonly falls around **$2,000
to $3,000+** in government and related costs, while some employment-based
cases can run **$2,000 to $5,000+** before attorney fees.
What you may pay
- Form I-485 (inside the U.S.) : $1,440 for the main adjustment-of-status application.
- Form I-130 : about $625 online or $675 paper in 2026 for many family cases.
- Medical exam : often about $150 to $600, depending on the doctor and location.
- Attorney fees : can push the total to $10,000 or more in complex cases.
Typical totals
| Case type | Usual
total |
|---|
| Family-based | About $2,000 to $3,000+
|
[5][1] | Employment-based | About $2,000 to $5,000+
|
[5][1] | With lawyer and extra steps | Can exceed
$10,000 |
[2][5]
Bottom line
If you want, I can also
break down the exact cost for **your situation** — for example, **marriage-
based** , **family petition** , or **employment-based** green card.
