Green Card Fee Waivers and Reduced Fees

1. Who is eligible to apply for a Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee?


In order to qualify for a fee waiver or reduced fee for the Green Card application process, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Have an adjusted gross income at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines;
• Hold a valid Social Security Number;
• Demonstrate that paying the fee would be a financial hardship; and
• Meet certain other requirements, such as having certain types of disabilities, being a victim of domestic violence, or being a refugee.

2. What forms are required to apply for a Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee?


To apply for a Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee, you must submit Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, with supporting documentation. You will also need to submit a copy of your most recent tax return or other proof of income and a signed statement explaining why you cannot afford to pay the fee.

3. What documents do I need to submit to prove that I am eligible for a Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee?


In order to prove eligibility for a Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee, you will need to provide documentation that demonstrates your inability to pay the full fee. This can include copies of income tax forms, evidence of receipt of public benefits, or a letter from your financial institution verifying the amount of your assets and liabilities. Additionally, if you are claiming an inability to pay based on a financial hardship, you should provide documentation of the hardship such as medical bills or unemployment benefit statements.

4. What is the amount of the Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee?


The amount of the Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee depends on the applicant’s situation and financial status. Generally, applicants with limited financial resources may be eligible for a waiver of the filing fee, or a reduced fee may be available. For more information on eligibility requirements and how to apply for a fee waiver or reduced fee, please visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website.

5. How do I apply for a Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee?


To apply for a fee waiver or reduced fee for a Green Card, you must submit Form I-912, Application for Fee Waiver, with your application for a Green Card. You must include evidence to demonstrate that you meet one of the criteria outlined in the form instructions.

6. How long does it take to process a Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee application?


The processing time for a Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee application depends on many factors, such as the type of application, the complexity of the case, and the amount of supporting documentation provided. Generally, it can take several weeks to several months to process a Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee application.

7. What is the difference between a Green Card fee waiver and a reduced fee?


A Green Card fee waiver is a complete waiver of the fee required to apply for a Green Card. The applicant is not required to pay any fee to apply for a Green Card. A reduced fee, on the other hand, is a partial waiver of the fee required to apply for a Green Card. The applicant would still need to pay some of the fee, but the amount is usually reduced.

8. How is my financial situation evaluated when applying for a Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee?


Your financial situation will be evaluated based on your household’s income, assets, and expenses. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will consider your household’s current income and assets, and the amount of expenses and debts you have. The USCIS will compare your household’s income against the U.S. Federal Poverty Guidelines, and if it’s below the required amount, you may qualify for a fee waiver or reduction.

9. Are there any other ways to reduce the cost of applying for a Green Card?


Yes, there are other ways to reduce the cost of applying for a Green Card. These include: applying for a fee waiver, using a qualified immigration attorney, researching the requirements for the application process, and exploring other financial assistance options. Additionally, individuals could consider using online DIY resources to help navigate the application process.

10. Do I need to submit additional documents if I am requesting a Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee?


Yes, in addition to the Form I-912 and supporting evidence, you will need to submit other documents in order to be eligible for a Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee. These documents may include proof of low income, a statement about why you are unable to pay the fee, and additional evidence to support your eligibility.

11. Can I submit my Green Card application without paying the full fee?


There is no option for making a partial payment when filing a Green Card application. You must pay the full fee in order to submit your application.

12. Are there any restrictions on who can receive a Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee?


There are restrictions on who can receive a Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee. Generally, the applicant must demonstrate financial hardship that prevents them from paying the full application fee. Factors such as income level, family size, and assets may be taken into consideration when determining eligibility for a fee waiver or reduction. In addition, certain categories of immigrants, such as refugees and asylees, may qualify for a fee waiver based on their immigration status.

13. How long will my Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee be valid once it is granted?


The Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee will be valid for up to one year from the date it is granted.

14. Will my Green Card application be denied if I do not qualify for a Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee?


No, your Green Card application will not be denied if you do not qualify for a fee waiver or reduced fee. However, you will be required to pay the full application fee.

15. Can I get a refund if I am granted a Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee after I have already paid the full amount of the fees?


No, you cannot receive a refund for the fees you have already paid.

16. How will I know if my application for a Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee has been approved?


Once your fee waiver or reduction application has been approved, you will receive written notification from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Your notification will include instructions about how to proceed with the application and payment of any applicable fees.

17. Is there an appeal process if my application for a Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee is denied?


Yes, there is an appeal process if your application for a Green Card fee waiver or reduced fee is denied. You can file a motion to reconsider your application. You can also file an appeal with the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA).

18. Am I required to demonstrate that I have been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic in order to be eligible for a Green Card Fee Waiver or Reduced Fee?


No, you are not required to demonstrate that you have been financially affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in order to be eligible for a Green Card Fee Waiver or Reduced Fee. However, you may need to provide evidence that you meet the eligibility criteria for the program you are applying for. This evidence could include income tax returns, pay stubs, or other financial documents.

19. What are the income and financial resources requirements to qualify for a Green Card Fee Waiver or Reduced Fee?


The income and financial resources requirements to qualify for a Green Card Fee Waiver or Reduced Fee vary depending on the existing fee waiver categories. Generally, individuals must demonstrate that their income is at or below 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for their household size, or demonstrate that they have financial resources insufficient to pay the fees.

20. Can I receive assistance in applying for a Green Card Fee Waiver or Reduced Fee if I have limited English proficiency or literacy skills?


Yes, you may receive assistance with applying for a Green Card Fee Waiver or Reduced Fee if you have limited English proficiency or literacy skills. You should contact a local organization to get help with filing the Green Card Fee Waiver or Reduced Fee application. Depending on your location, these organizations may be able to provide assistance in different languages.