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How Much Does an Immigration Lawyer Cost? [2024]

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When immigrating to the United States, navigating the complex legal system can be overwhelming. This is where an immigration lawyer can provide invaluable assistance. Immigration lawyers specialize in navigating the complicated legal landscape and can help clients understand their legal rights and responsibilities. According to the Migration Policy Institute, approximately 44.9 million immigrants live in the United States, and the number of foreign-born residents is expected to grow in the coming years.

NOTE: Immigration fees are due to increase on April 1, 2024. More information here.

Hiring an immigration lawyer can provide numerous benefits. They can assist with visa applications, green card applications, and citizenship applications, among other things. They can also help individuals facing deportation or other immigration-related issues. It is important to note that hiring an immigration lawyer can be expensive, with fees ranging from several thousand to tens of thousands. However, non-profit organizations and legal aid societies can provide low-cost or free legal assistance to low-income individuals and families.

Do I Need an Immigration Lawyer?

There are several reasons why an individual might need to hire an immigration lawyer. These may include:

Complex immigration procedures 

Immigration procedures can be complex and time-consuming. A lawyer can assist with navigating the various legal requirements and paperwork.

Assistance with visa applications 

Applying for a visa can be a daunting task. If you need help understanding the different types of visas available, an immigration lawyer can assist you in determining which one is best suited for your situation.

Deportation defense 

If an individual is facing deportation, an immigration lawyer can provide legal representation and work to prevent their removal from the country.

Employment-based immigration 

An immigration lawyer can assist individuals and businesses with obtaining work visas and other employment-related immigration issues.

Family-based immigration 

If you are facing family-based immigration concerns, such as obtaining visas for your spouse, children, or other family members, seeking the guidance of an immigration lawyer can prove to be highly beneficial.

Immigration Lawyer Costs: What to Expect

The fees associated with hiring an immigration lawyer can vary depending on the nature of the case and the lawyer's experience. It is important to discuss fees and payment arrangements with an immigration lawyer before hiring them. Clients should ask for a written fee agreement that outlines the lawyer's fees and any additional costs associated with the case. According to the American Immigration Lawyers Association, most immigration lawyers charge by the hour, with rates that can range from $150 to $500 per hour. Other fees that may be associated with working with an immigration lawyer include:

Filing Fees 

The filing fees associated with an immigration case can vary depending on the type of application being filed. According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the current filing fee for an I-130 Petition for Alien Relative is $535. The filing fee for an I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status is $1,140. Other standard filing fees include:

  • I-129 Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker: $460

  • I-765 Application for Employment Authorization: $410

  • I-90 Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card: $540

In addition to filing fees, other costs may be associated with an immigration case, such as legal fees and fees for obtaining documents.

Application Preparation Fees 

An immigration lawyer may charge these fees to cover the cost of preparing and submitting the client's application to the government. These fees can vary depending on the complexity of the application and the amount of work involved.

Retainer Fees 

Some lawyers may require clients to pay a retainer fee upfront. This fee is typically a flat fee that covers a certain number of hours of the lawyer's time. This will vary based on the lawyer’s location, the complexity of the case, and the amount of time the lawyer expects to spend on the case.

Green Card Fees

According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the current filing fee for a green card application is $1,140. This fee includes both the filing fee and the biometric services fee. In addition to the filing fee, there may be other costs associated with obtaining a green card, such as medical exams and travel expenses.

Deportation Defense Fees

The cost of hiring an immigration lawyer for deportation defense can range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the circumstances of the case. However, the cost may be lower or higher depending on factors such as the lawyer’s location, the complexity of the case, and the amount of time the lawyer expects to spend on the case.

Translation Fees

Document translation fees: If the client's documents are not in English, they may need to be translated into English for submission to the government. An immigration lawyer may be able to provide this service, or the client may need to hire a separate translator.

Travel Expenses

If the client needs to attend an interview or hearing with the government, they may need to pay for travel expenses such as airfare, hotel accommodations, and transportation.

Consultation Fees 

Some immigration lawyers may charge a fee for an initial consultation with a prospective client. This fee may be waived or applied towards the cost of legal services if the client hires the lawyer.

Appeal Fees 

If the government denies a client's application, they may need to file an appeal. Additional fees, such as filing, legal, and document preparation fees, may be associated with the appeal process.

Application Resubmission Fees 

If the government returns a client's application for correction or additional information, they may need to pay additional fees to resubmit the application.

What If I Can’t Afford an Immigration Attorney?

If you can't afford an immigration attorney, there are some options available to you:

Mixed-arrangement Possibilities 

You may be able to represent yourself in some immigration matters, such as filling out forms and gathering evidence. However, it is important to note that immigration law is complex, and even small mistakes can have significant consequences. If you choose to represent yourself, it may be helpful to seek guidance from a legal aid organization or to use self-help resources provided by the government.

Non-profit Organizations 

Many non-profit organizations provide free or low-cost legal services to low-income individuals and families. These organizations may be able to provide legal representation or advice on immigration matters. Some examples of non-profit organizations that offer immigration legal services include the Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project, the National Immigrant Justice Center, and the Catholic Legal Immigration Network.

Pro Bono Attorneys 

Some immigration attorneys may be willing to take on your case pro bono (for free). This is more likely to happen if your case is high-profile, involves a legal issue that is important to the attorney, or if the attorney has a personal connection to your situation. Contact local law schools, bar associations, or legal aid organizations to ask if they can refer you to an attorney who may be willing to take your case pro bono.

Legal Aid Societies 

Legal aid societies are non-profit organizations that provide legal assistance to low-income individuals and families. Some legal aid societies may have immigration specialists on staff who can help you with your case. To find a legal aid society in your area, you can visit the Legal Services Corporation's website.

It is important to note that immigration law is complex and constantly changing. It is highly recommended that you seek the assistance of a qualified immigration attorney whenever possible.

Legal Resources for Immigrants

For individuals who need legal advice while immigrating, several resources are available, including non-profit organizations, legal aid societies, and directories of immigration attorneys. Non-profit organizations and legal aid societies often provide free or low-cost legal services to low-income individuals and families. Directories of immigration attorneys can help individuals find attorneys in their area who specialize in immigration law. These resources can be helpful for individuals who cannot afford an immigration attorney but still need assistance with their immigration case. It is important to research these resources carefully to ensure they are reputable and can provide the necessary assistance.

Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project (ILAP)

ILAP is a non-profit organization that provides free and low-cost immigration legal services to low-income immigrants and refugees in Maine. Their services include legal representation, education, and advocacy. You can contact them at (207) 780-1593 or visit their website at https://ilapmaine.org/.

National Immigrant Justice Center (NIJC) 

NIJC is a non-profit organization that provides legal services to immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers in the Chicago area and beyond. Their services include legal representation, education, and advocacy. You can contact them at (312) 660-1370 or visit their website at https://www.immigrantjustice.org/.

Legal Aid Society of New York 

The Legal Aid Society of New York provides free legal services to low-income individuals and families in New York City. They offer immigration services, including legal representation and advice. You can contact them at (212) 577-3300 or visit their website at https://www.legalaidnyc.org/.

Legal Services of Northern California 

Legal Services of Northern California provides free legal services to low-income individuals and families in 23 counties in Northern California. They offer immigration services, including legal representation and advice. You can contact them at (916) 551-2100 or visit their website at https://www.lsnc.net/.

American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) 

AILA is a national association of immigration attorneys. Their website includes a directory of AILA members who specialize in immigration law. You can search for an attorney by location and practice area at https://www.ailalawyer.com/.


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Diego Alejandro GomezReviewer

Diego Alejandro Gomez, Esq., a distinguished attorney and founder of DAG LAW GROUP, LLC, established his practice in 2021 with a steadfast commitment to serving the immigrant community with professionalism and empathy. Visit: https://daglawgroup.com/