How Much Does an Immigration Lawyer Cost? Fee Types and What to Ask
Updated October 31, 2026. Sources: USCIS.gov.
Not legal advice. GreenCardBlog.com is an independent information site, not a law firm and not affiliated with USCIS or any government agency. Immigration rules, fees and timelines change. Always confirm details on USCIS.gov and consider speaking with a licensed immigration attorney about your situation.
Immigration lawyers set their own prices, so cost depends on the case type, how complex your history is, and where the lawyer practices. This guide explains how fees are usually structured and what to ask before you sign, so you can compare quotes fairly.
How immigration lawyers usually charge
| Fee type | How it works | Common for |
|---|---|---|
| Consultation fee | A one-time fee (some lawyers offer free consultations) to review your situation and options | First meeting, case screening |
| Flat fee | One price for a defined case, often paid in installments | Marriage green cards, renewals, naturalization, K-1 visas |
| Hourly | Billed by time worked, often against a retainer | Court (removal) cases, appeals, complex histories |
Government fees are separate
Lawyer fees do not include USCIS filing fees, biometrics or medical exam costs. Check current amounts on the USCIS fee schedule (Form G-1055) or the USCIS fee calculator before you budget.
Questions to ask before you hire
- Is the fee flat or hourly, and exactly which forms, interviews and requests for evidence (RFEs) does it cover?
- Who will work on my case day to day: the lawyer or a paralegal?
- What happens to the fee if my case is denied or needs an appeal?
- Will you file Form G-28 so USCIS knows you represent me?
- Can I get the agreement in writing, in a language I read well?
Lower-cost options
If cost is a barrier, the Justice Department keeps a list of recognized nonprofit organizations and accredited representatives who can give immigration legal help, and the EOIR pro bono provider list covers people in immigration court.
Avoid notario scams
A "notario" or "immigration consultant" is not a lawyer and cannot give legal advice. USCIS warns that only attorneys and accredited representatives may represent you. See USCIS: Common Scams. You can check a lawyer's license with your state bar.
Want help finding a lawyer, including one who speaks your language? See our green card lawyer guide.
Frequently asked questions
How do immigration lawyers charge?
Consultation fee: A one-time fee (some lawyers offer free consultations) to review your situation and options; First meeting, case screening. Flat fee: One price for a defined case, often paid in installments; Marriage green cards, renewals, naturalization, K-1 visas. Hourly: Billed by time worked, often against a retainer; Court (removal) cases, appeals, complex histories.
Are USCIS filing fees included in lawyer fees?
Lawyer fees do not include USCIS filing fees, biometrics or medical exam costs. Check current amounts on the USCIS fee schedule (Form G-1055) or the USCIS fee calculator before you budget.
What should I ask before hiring an immigration lawyer?
Is the fee flat or hourly, and exactly which forms, interviews and requests for evidence (RFEs) does it cover?; Who will work on my case day to day: the lawyer or a paralegal?; What happens to the fee if my case is denied or needs an appeal?; Will you file Form G-28 so USCIS knows you represent me?.
Are there lower-cost options for immigration legal help?
If cost is a barrier, the Justice Department keeps a list of recognized nonprofit organizations and accredited representatives who can give immigration legal help, and the EOIR pro bono provider list covers people in immigration court.
How do I avoid notario scams?
A "notario" or "immigration consultant" is not a lawyer and cannot give legal advice. USCIS warns that only attorneys and accredited representatives may represent you.
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