5 Key Insights on Fee for Adjustment of Status Applications

Introduction

When trying to get to lawful permanent resident status through Adjustment of Status (AOS) in the U.S., immigrants going through the process can find recent changes to AOS application fees and requirements confusing. In this article, we explain the 5 main points about the increased application fees for AOS, as well as ways the application fees can be waived in specific circumstances. Those trying to make immigration work face many financial and bureaucratic obstacles along the way and this article aims to provide helpful guidance for those along the way.

Define Adjustment of Status and Its Importance

Misconceptions abound as to the immigration process required to obtain lawful permanent resident (Green Card) status while already living in the United States. Adjustment of Status (AOS) and corresponding AOS application fee allows individuals already in the United States to apply for lawful permanent resident status and remain in the country while the application is being processed by USCIS rather than processing through consular processing and leaving the country.

We have been helping individuals and their families achieve their dreams since 1960. The year 2017 saw another historic high with 783,000 green cards granted through the Adjustment of Status process.

Although the process of AOS and the corresponding AOS fee that must be paid has recently changed and increased the burden of proof on applicants to establish unusual equities in order to secure approval of their AOS applications for Green Card, understanding the rights of AOS applicants is critical to ensure approval of their Green Card applications through AOS.

However, knowing your rights in immediate situations of crisis such as when ICE shows up at your door, when you are placed into deportation proceedings, and even when you are asked to sign documents can save your life and your freedom. The Vasquez Law Firm is dedicated to serving the Hispanic community. We are available 24/7 to address any immediate needs that our clients are experiencing. We can provide advice and assistance in emergency situations as well as ongoing representation in all of their immigration matters.

Immigrant rights organizations, as well as congressional critics, are expected to challenge the details of the new policy as well as its implementation. However, significant changes to the process of AOS can only be made by Congress or through formal rulemaking by USCIS, and not by the Service.

Shifting AOS to consular processing could affect a wide array of companies here that depend on foreign workers to run their respective companies and also the families of permanent residents that are going through the AOS process for lawful permanent residency.

As immigration attorneys that practice AOS cases, we can attest to the very positive consequences that obtaining a green card will have on an individual’s life, and on the lives of their immediate family members. Specifically, they can live in the U.S. on a permanent basis, contributing to our society in a very positive manner.

Adjustment of Status through the process of AOS is another critical aspect of the process needed to obtain a Green Card to allow an Immigrant to live permanently in the U.S. long-term as a Lawful Permanent Resident (Permanent Resident). Vasquez Law Firm represents Families in all aspects of their immigration to help them achieve their goals and we offer free initial consultations and flexible payment plans.

Explore the Fee Structure for Adjustment of Status Applications

It’s expensive to apply for immigration, but we outline the costs of the main application to apply for Adjustment of Status to that of a lawful permanent resident, Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status. The base filing fee for Form I-485 for individuals 14 years and older is $1,440, for children under the age of 14 it is $950. The fee for the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) that can be applied for at the same time as the I-485 application is $260. This does not include additional costs based on specific circumstances, as well as the costs of an immigration attorney that can range from $2,500 to $6,500.

Yes, there are financial constraints in all areas of law and we strive to make quality legal representation affordable. For personal injury cases, we work on a contingency fee basis. For other practice areas, including immigration, we have flexible payment options that can be structured to a client’s financial means. We strive to make quality legal assistance affordable so that our clients have the legal assistance they need to attain justice.

Identify Fee Waivers and Exemptions for Applicants

Many permanent residency applicants are worried about the application fee for adjustment of status to citizenship which has recently gone up to $725. In the past about 40% of citizenship applicants had requested a fee waiver. The process for a fee waiver for adjustment of status applicants is to first fill out Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, and then provide evidence of your inability to pay the application fee. You will need to provide evidence that your household income is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for that size household, among other forms of circumstantial evidence. This is different from the past when an applicant received means-tested benefits and thus would qualify for a fee waiver.

However, for many applicants, their financial struggles can seem to bar the way to many of their dreams. But your dream of obtaining permanent residency does not have to be one of them. We are happy to serve our clients on a contingency fee basis for personal injury cases. In addition, we can pay the attorney’s fees for you on a payment plan basis for your immigration case, structured to fit your financial circumstances.

Outline the Application Process for Adjustment of Status

I know that applying for Adjustment of Status can be a very scary process for many people. High stakes for them and their loved ones are involved. That is why I have listed out the steps for Application for Adjustment of Status (AOS) for your review.

1. Determine Eligibility: Determine whether you are eligible to apply for AOS. There are several categories of individuals for whom the AOS process is used. Normally, an immediate family member or employer files a petition for immigrant status on your behalf and that petition is approved by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) prior to your application for AOS.
2. Complete Form I-485: The front and back of every page of the Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status under Section 1 of Chapter 1 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (Form I-485) must be completely filled out in black ink. This application must be signed in the appropriate space on the front of the Form I-485.
3. Supporting Documents: This section details all of the supporting documents which will be needed for the Application for Adjustment of Status (AOS).
4. Submit Your Application: Once you have completed Form I-485, you must include supporting documentation and payment for the application fee for your Application for Adjustment of Status and send it to the appropriate USCIS Service Center for processing.
5. Go to the Biometrics Appointment: Your family member will go to one of the locations across the country that USCIS designates to have his or her finger printed.
6. Interview: In most cases, it is normal practice for every applicant to attend an interview at a USCIS office across the country for further review of their case in application for Adjustment of Status.
7. Decision: After your Application for Adjustment of Status is processed by USCIS, you will receive a decision on your case.

The recent changes in AOS applications are to be considered on a case by case basis. The AOS applicant must provide sufficient documentation to prove merit of his/her case. If the foreign national is applying for AOS on a dual intent visa such as the H-1B or L-1 visa, the foreign national must provide sufficient documentation to prove that he/she has complied with the conditions of his/her prior visa. All AOS applications are considered on a case by case basis as an extraordinary act of administrative grace by USCIS. This is why it is advisable to seek the assistance of an experienced immigration attorney to assist the foreign national in determining whether his/her specific circumstances would warrant approval of his/her AOS application and to represent him/her before USCIS. Vasquez Law Firm is here to assist you and your loved ones with all of your immigration law needs as well as your other legal needs. We can assist you with all Personal Injury cases as well as all Family Law cases. We can set up a free initial consultation with you by filling out the online form on this website or by calling our office at (210) 570-0726 to set up a free consultation by phone or via Zoom for your convenience.

Get Started with a Free Immigration Consultation at Vasquez Law Firm. We have a simple form on this website for you to complete for a free consultation. It only requires your name, email address, phone number, and type of legal matter for which you need representation, whether it is an Immigration case, a Personal Injury case, or a Family Law case. We have free virtual consultations by means of Zoom or by phone with experienced Immigration attorneys as well as Personal Injury attorneys and all of the attorneys at Vasquez Law Firm are experienced in all Family Law matters. We will guide you through the complicated legal process and represent you to ensure the best possible outcome.

Discuss Challenges and Considerations in the Adjustment of Status Process

The process of applying for Adjustment of Status (AOS) can be complicated and sometimes take a very long time to process. Because of the backlogs at the USCIS offices, it can take months and even years for USCIS to process the applications for AOS. The wait can be stressful and anxious for many applicants.

Documents needed to apply for Adjustment of Status to become a lawful permanent resident are detailed and must be completed accurately and in full. Even small oversights or omissions with documents required for application can lead to denial of the entire application. With that in mind, we are extremely meticulous in preparing each and every application for submission to the USCIS. Moreover, we are very aware of the considerable expense of legal services and thus have established a variety of payment plans to suit most budgets. If you have incurred personal injury, we handle your case on a contingency fee basis. This means that there is no charge for our services unless we secure compensation on your behalf for your injuries.

Applicants must also maintain lawful status while their AOS application is being processed by USCIS. If an applicant’s status “lapses” while his or her application is under review by USCIS, it could have adverse effects on the approval of his or her application for lawful permanent resident status. For this reason, many applicants are required to go in for an interview with a USCIS officer, during which time he or she will be asked to explain his or her application as well as other information regarding his or her background.

Experts, including immigration attorney Joseph Robinson of Nowicki, Mio, Weinic & Blumenfeld, P.C., note that in order to assist applicants and their families, including in addressing issues that could lead to denial of their application for lawful permanent resident status, it is critical that applicants present strong cases before USCIS officers in interviews that are becoming increasingly inevitable. In order to approve the applications of individuals with clean records, USCIS now requires that such applicants prove greater worthiness to live in the United States than in the past. This new policy is set to become effective in May 2026.

Conclusion

The process for an individual to obtain Green Cards and become legal permanent residents through the process of adjustment of status can be very complicated. It is hard for applicants to understand the various costs to process an Adjustment of Status (AOS) application and the various ways that applicants can receive assistance to pay the application fee, including possible fee waivers.

There are many costs and processes that take place when going through the process of Adjustment of Status and many of the costs can be very pricey for applicants to pay. The costs of applying for Adjustment of Status, as well as the applicant’s ability to pay for the process through payment plans, are current and up-to-date.

Securing a Green Card for yourself and your family through Adjustment of Status is critical to building a future for yourself and your loved ones. We understand the various processes and steps involved with AOS and would be happy to guide you through the process. Our experienced immigration attorneys are here to assist you. We offer FREE consultations as well as customized payment plans to make the process as affordable as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Adjustment of Status (AOS)?

Adjustment of Status (AOS) is the process that allows individuals already living in the United States to apply for lawful permanent resident (Green Card) status without having to leave the country.

Why is AOS important?

AOS is important because it enables individuals to remain in the U.S. while their application for a Green Card is being processed, avoiding the need for consular processing which requires leaving the country.

What are the recent changes to the AOS process?

Recent changes have increased the burden of proof on applicants, requiring them to establish unusual equities to secure approval for their AOS applications.

How many Green Cards were granted through AOS in 2017?

In 2017, a historic high of 783,000 Green Cards were granted through the Adjustment of Status process.

What should I do if ICE shows up at my door?

Knowing your rights in situations involving ICE is critical. It is advisable to seek legal assistance immediately to protect your rights and freedom.

How can the Vasquez Law Firm assist with AOS?

The Vasquez Law Firm provides 24/7 support for clients facing immediate legal needs, offers ongoing representation in immigration matters, and emphasizes bilingual legal services in English and Spanish.

What is the fee structure for applying for AOS?

The base filing fee for Form I-485 is $1,440 for individuals 14 years and older and $950 for children under 14. The fee for the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is $260, not including additional costs for specific circumstances or attorney fees.

What are the attorney fees for AOS applications?

Attorney fees for AOS applications can range from $2,500 to $6,500, depending on the complexity of the case.

Are there payment options available for AOS services?

Yes, the Vasquez Law Firm offers flexible payment plans for immigration services to make legal representation more affordable.

What are the benefits of obtaining a Green Card through AOS?

Obtaining a Green Card through AOS allows individuals and their immediate family members to live permanently in the U.S., contributing positively to society.

List of Sources

1. Define Adjustment of Status and Its Importance
   • New USCIS Memo May Force More Green Card Applicants to Apply from Abroad, Causing Chaos and Confusion - American Immigration Council (https://americanimmigrationcouncil.org/blog/green-card-news-uscis-memo)
   • Top 5 Things to Know about the New USCIS Adjustment of Status Policy (https://quarles.com/newsroom/publications/top-5-things-to-know-about-the-new-uscis-adjustment-of-status-policy)
   • U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Will Grant ‘Adjustment of Status’ Only in Extraordinary Circumstances | USCIS (https://uscis.gov/newsroom/news-releases/us-citizenship-and-immigration-services-will-grant-adjustment-of-status-only-in-extraordinary)
   • Explainer: USCIS Memorandum on Adjustment of Status Within the United States - National Immigration Forum (https://forumtogether.org/article/explainer-uscis-memorandum-on-adjustment-of-status-within-the-united-states)
   • USCIS Redefines Adjustment of Status as Discretionary Relief (https://clarkhill.com/news-events/news/uscis-adjustment-status-discretionary-policy-2026)
2. Explore the Fee Structure for Adjustment of Status Applications
   • USCIS Finalizes Increase in Fees for Immigration-Related Applications - American Immigration Council (https://americanimmigrationcouncil.org/blog/uscis-increases-fees-immigration-applications)
   • What Are The Updated Immigration Fees For 2026? (https://robinsonimmigration.com/uscis-filing-fee-increase)
   • Adjustment of status cost in 2026 (https://tukki.ai/blog/adjustment-of-status-cost)
   • Form I-485 Filing Fee 2026: $1,440 Paper, $1,390 Online (https://immigrationdirect.com/blog/form-i-485-filing-fee)
   • 2026 Immigration Fees: The Complete USCIS Filing Fee Guide (https://lawofficeimmigration.com/blog/hr1-immigration-fees-2026.html)
3. Identify Fee Waivers and Exemptions for Applicants
   • USCIS Moves to Limit Fee-Waiver Requests, and Thus Save Money (https://cis.org/North/USCIS-Moves-Limit-FeeWaiver-Requests-and-Thus-Save-Money)
   • Immigration Application Fee Waiver for Financial Hardship (https://godoyolivieri.com/blog/immigration-application-fee-waiver-for-financial-hardship)
   • USCIS Changes Policy on Fee Waivers, Potentially Deterring Thousands of Citizenship Applications (https://americanimmigrationcouncil.org/blog/uscis-changes-fee-waivers-policy)
   • Free Immigration Applications May Become Harder to Get Under Federal Proposal | KQED (https://kqed.org/news/11745013/free-immigration-applications-may-become-harder-to-get-under-federal-proposal)
4. Outline the Application Process for Adjustment of Status
   • May 2026 Adjustment of Status Updates Explained (https://ahlgrenlaw.com/2026/06/may-2026-adjustment-of-status-policy-updates-what-you-need-to-know)
   • USCIS Policy Update: What the New Adjustment of Status Guidance Means for Employers and Individuals (https://hinshawlaw.com/en/insights/insights-for-employers-alert/uscis-policy-update-what-the-new-adjustment-of-status-guidance-means-for-employers-and-individuals)
   • USCIS Redefines Adjustment of Status as Discretionary Relief (https://clarkhill.com/news-events/news/uscis-adjustment-status-discretionary-policy-2026)
   • Form I-485 Changes September 18, 2026: What Adjustment of Status Applicants Need to Know (https://ariasvilla.com/form-i-485-changes-september-18-2026-what-adjustment-of-status-applicants-need-to-know)
   • May 22, 2026 USCIS Issues New Policy Guidance On Adjustment Of Status (Form I-485) (https://oiss.yale.edu/may-22-2026-uscis-issues-new-policy-guidance-on-adjustment-of-status-form-i-485)
5. Discuss Challenges and Considerations in the Adjustment of Status Process
   • USCIS Memo Signals Heightened Scrutiny of Adjustment of Status Cases (https://shrm.org/topics-tools/news/uscis-memo-signals-scrutiny-adjustment-of-status-green-card-cases)
   • May 2026 Adjustment of Status Updates Explained (https://ahlgrenlaw.com/2026/06/may-2026-adjustment-of-status-policy-updates-what-you-need-to-know)
   • NewsFlash! USCIS Reinforces that Adjustment of Status is Discretionary – Not a Right - Murthy Law Firm | U.S Immigration Law (https://murthy.com/2026/05/22/newsflash-uscis-reinforces-that-adjustment-of-status-is-discretionary-not-a-right)
   • U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Will Grant ‘Adjustment of Status’ Only in Extraordinary Circumstances | USCIS (https://uscis.gov/newsroom/news-releases/us-citizenship-and-immigration-services-will-grant-adjustment-of-status-only-in-extraordinary)
   • USCIS Redefines Adjustment of Status as Discretionary Relief (https://clarkhill.com/news-events/news/uscis-adjustment-status-discretionary-policy-2026)