how much does a lawyer charge for citizenship?

by Prof. Napoleon Veum II 8 min read

For a typical application for employment authorization or work visa, immigration lawyers will charge between $250 and $500 for their legal assistance. For a US citizenship or naturalization application, expect to pay around $500 to $1,200 whereas filing an asylum application will range from $1,000 to $3,000.

Full Answer

How much does lawyer charge for citizenship on?

Nov 20, 2018 · Applying for U.S. Citizenship: How Much Do Lawyers Cost and Are They Worth It? TYPICAL ATTORNEYS' FEES $1,000 - $2,000 Citizenship applicants typically paid their lawyers $1,000 to $2,000 FLAT FEE 91% 91% More than nine in ten immigration lawyers charge a flat fee for citizenship applications.

Do I need a lawyer to apply for citizenship?

Mar 11, 2019 · US citizenship lawyer fees are $500 on average to fill out the application for naturalization and $725 for the USCIS fees. Processing time usually takes 6 to 9 months to complete this task. When you first begin the process associated with immigration, it's a …

How much does it cost to apply for citizenship?

Mar 08, 2021 · No one has to hire a lawyer to apply for U.S. citizenship ("naturalization"). You can do the entire process on your own, if you want to. But is it worth it, just to save the approximately $500 to $1,000 that U.S. attorneys typically charge for …

What is the fee to apply for US citizenship?

Mar 16, 2022 · Cost for U.S. Citizenship If you need an immigration attorney to assist you with your N-400, Application for Naturalization, you can expect to pay an average fee of $500. Conclusion Now you no longer have to wonder how much does an immigration lawyer cost. These legal fees can seem very expensive. But it may save you time and money in the long run.

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How much does US citizenship cost with a lawyer?

$500 to $2,500Citizenship/Naturalization Application: $500 to $2,500. Green Card Renewal: $300 to $700. Asylum Application: $1,000 to $7,000.Dec 29, 2020

How much does it cost to hire an immigration lawyer in the US?

This can be anywhere from $150 to $500+ per hour. However, some immigration lawyers charge a set fee for a specific service. For example, for filing a specific immigration form, an immigration lawyer may charge a flat rate between $350 to $1,500.Mar 4, 2021

Do I need a lawyer to become a US citizen?

Do I need a lawyer to apply for U.S. citizenship? No. You can file USCIS forms yourself, including Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, which can be submitted online. However, some people choose to seek assistance from a lawyer or Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR)-accredited representative.Sep 16, 2021

What is the fastest way to get US citizenship?

Expedited Naturalization by MarriageHold a green card for three years;Be married to and living with your US citizen spouse for three years;Live within the state that you're applying in for three months; and.Meet all other requirements for US citizenship.

Can I get my citizenship for free?

USCIS charges a filing fee of $725 to apply for citizenship. However, if you have very low income, you may qualify to apply for citizenship for free, or at a discounted rate of $405.

How much does a green card cost 2020?

How much does it cost to apply for a green card? The government filing fees for getting a family-based green card is $1,760 for an applicant living in the United States or $1,200 for an applicant living outside the United States.

How much does 2020 citizenship cost?

$725There are many ways to become a U.S. Citizen, but Citizenship by Naturalization is the most common way to apply for U.S. citizenship. The Naturalization application costs $725 in 2020. Two separate fees make up this larger fee: a $640 filing fee for the required Form N-400, and $85 for the biometrics appointment.Oct 15, 2020

How much does it cost to become a U.S. citizenship?

$725Currently it costs $725 to become a U.S. citizen through the naturalization process (for most applicants). However, some individuals may qualify for a fee waiver. When filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, you must pay two separate fees: an application fee and a biometric services fee.Apr 20, 2021

How much is citizenship 2020?

$725The current naturalization fee for a U.S. citizenship application is $725. That total includes $640 for application processing and $85 for biometrics services, both of which are nonrefundable, regardless of whether the U.S. government approves or rejects an application.

What is the 4 year 1 day rule for U.S. citizenship?

The statutory period preceding the filing of the application is calculated from the date of filing. Once 4 years and 1 day have elapsed from the date of the applicant's return to the United States, the period of absence from the United States that occurred within the past 5 years is now less than 1 year.

What are the 5 requirements to become a U.S. citizen?

Be able to read, write, and speak basic English; Demonstrate good moral character; Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government; Demonstrate a loyalty to the principles of the U.S. Constitution; and.Jun 23, 2021

What is the oath new citizens take?

Key principle: I promise that I will protect the Constitution and all laws from all enemies, from other countries, or from inside the United States. SECTION 3 …that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; Key principle: I promise that my loyalty is to the United States only.

How much does an immigration attorney charge?

In most cases, an immigration attorney will charge an hourly rate of $150 to $300 per hour, whereas others will charge a set fee for the entire process. For basic immigration form filing, you can expect to pay around $250 to $1,200 in fees. Immigration attorney fees significantly range, depending on the types of services ...

How much does an immigration lawyer cost?

An immigration lawyer charges between $150 and $300 per hour, with a typical 30-min consultation fee of $75 to $150. Legal assistance when filing basic immigration forms costs $250 to $800, while green card assistance runs from $800 to $5,000, plus the USCIS fees of $460 to $700.

How much does a green card lawyer cost?

Green Card lawyer fees range from $795 to $2,900 depending on your situation. Green Card lawyer fees for a sibling or parent of a U.S. Citizen is around $795. An employee sponsored labor certification costs $2,000 in attorney fees, $700 in USCIS filing fees, and takes 2 to 3 years to process.

What do immigration lawyers know?

Unlike the average citizen with no experience, an immigration lawyer will know exactly which forms to file and when. Also, the level of advice you'll receive is often invaluable, especially when you need to prepare for an interview or court date.

How much does it cost to get a K-1 visa?

Attorney fees for filing a K-1 Visa Petition for the fiance of a U.S. Citizen is around $725 with the USCIS fees costing $535. Typical processing time is 7 to 10 months.

Why is it harder to find a lawyer?

It's going to be harder to find a lawyer who is willing to just review work you've done before you send your application . This is because even a simple review creates a lawyer-client relationship and all of the responsibilities that come with it for the lawyer. Most lawyers will want to have complete control over the work product ...

Do lawyers have control over work?

Most lawyers will want to have complete control over the work product if they are going to take on the lawyer-client responsibilities, and therefore a reduced fee for what you hoped would be a simple review is not going to be worth it to the lawyer. When you're ready to hire a lawyer, make sure the lawyer-client agreement says exactly what ...

Can a lawyer attend a citizenship interview?

The lawyer can also attend your citizenship interview with you — mostly to take notes about what happens during the interview in case you are denied, but also to speak up on your behalf if the USCIS officer needs clarification or asks you inappropriate questions.

Do immigration lawyers have influence?

In the American system, an immigration lawyer does not have any special influence over the government's decision. There is nothing outside the law that a lawyer can do that will make your application process go faster or make it more likely that you will get your citizenship. However, a lawyer will know everything that is legally possible ...

Can a lawyer tell you how to answer citizenship questions?

However, a lawyer will know everything that is legally possible to make your application process go as quickly and successfully as it can. Your lawyer cannot tell you how to answer any questions on the application form, although he or she can explain the questions to you so you can understand how to answer. At your citizenship interview, your ...

Can an immigration lawyer save you time?

An immigration lawyer can save you time. Not just the time it would take you to figure out how to apply, but also time you might waste if you make a mistake in applying or don't send the right type of document. At the least, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the government agency in charge of naturalization, ...

Can a lawyer give you a ride to USCIS?

Don't expect your lawyer to give you a ride to the USCIS office, unless you've agreed to this arrangement. There aren't many immigration lawyers who will help you with your English or your knowledge of U.S. history and government (civics), if you need that kind of test-preparation help. The best the lawyer can do is tell you where to find ...

What is an Immigration Lawyer?

Immigration cases are complex. There are layers of complicated rules, laws, and regulations you need to navigate to get a successful outcome. Some cases are simple and don’t need special assistance.

Who Needs an Immigration Lawyer?

There are a lot of resources and information on immigration available online. So, it might seem unnecessary to pay a high price for an immigration lawyer when all these resources are free. The reality is, however, the immigration process is complex, and there is usually a lot at stake.

What Are the Different Cost Factors for an Immigration Lawyer?

There is a whole host of factors that will influence the cost of an immigration lawyer. Generally, however, the following factors will affect the price you are charged:

What Are the Average Costs for an Immigration Lawyer?

As we’ve explained above, there is a whole range of factors that will influence the actual cost of an immigration lawyer. What we can do, however, is look at what the average costs are for different types of visas.

Conclusion

Now you no longer have to wonder how much does an immigration lawyer cost. These legal fees can seem very expensive. But it may save you time and money in the long run. It could also be the difference between a successful application and a possible denial (or worse – deportation!).

Are you Ready to Apply for Citizenship?

The cost of applying for U.S. citizenship will depend greatly on whether or not you are currently eligible to begin the naturalization process.

Other Cost Considerations

Regardless of whether you are a legal permanent resident or not, factors like a criminal history or a negative immigration history can make the process much more complex, and therefore more expensive.

Are There Ways to Lower the Cost?

Certainly. Technically, applying for citizenship just means submitting the correct forms and evidence to the right places.

Conclusion

While becoming a naturalized citizen can be a rewarding experience, the process of naturalization is both expensive and riddled with complexity.

How much does an immigration lawyer cost?

On an hourly basis, the cost of an immigration lawyer ranges from $150 to $300.

What is CitizenPath?

CitizenPath is an exceptional alternative to using an immigration lawyer. CitizenPath is an affordable online immigration service created by lawyers. It’s like TurboTax® but for immigration. Our software makes USCIS forms easier and helps eliminate the denials and mistakes that can make the process longer than it needs to be. We even provide a 100% money-back guarantee that USCIS will approve your application or petition.

What is a deportable crime?

Deportable crime. Multiple convictions with a total sentence of at least five years. Inadmissible crime. It is important to note that each state’s laws are different. To understand how a conviction in your state affects your immigration case, it is important to get analysis from an experienced immigration lawyer.

What are some examples of immigration violations?

Examples of immigration violations include entering without inspection, visa overstays, marriage fraud and misrepresentation on previous applications. Although immediate relatives of U.S. citizens can generally overcome a visa overstay without a lawyer, other relatives will need help.

How long is a free initial consultation?

The meeting may be in an office, but these days it is typically online (Skype, Zoom, etc.) or on the phone. An initial consultation may last 30 to 60 minutes. This gives you a chance to evaluate your chances of success and if you have confidence in the lawyer. For the lawyer, it’s an opportunity to get sell his or her services. It’s very common to find an initial consultation for $150 or less. However, some attorneys choose to charge their regular rates.

Is it a good idea to invest in an immigration lawyer?

Therefore, investing in the cost of an immigration lawyer is generally a good idea.

Is it expensive to hire an immigration lawyer?

Most people are shocked at the cost of an immigration lawyer. While it can be expensive, certain people have needs that justify the expense. After all, a lawyer who specializes in immigration law can help you navigate a difficult situation. That may mean the difference between deportation and lawful permanent residence.

What factors affect the cost of immigration legal assistance?

Other factors that can affect the cost of legal assistance are the background and experience of the lawyer or firm, the firm’s reputation, and geographic location. Do your research when hiring an attorney ...

What can an immigration attorney do?

An immigration attorney can assist U.S. citizens, permanent residents and undocumented immigrants, and can help with student visas, work visas and travel visas, including expired or overstayed visas.

How long was Pegah's case pending?

An unscrupulous lawyer had taken advantage of a husband seeking immigration aid and left his case pending for 7 years without doing any real work on it. In 2015, the couple began to work with Rahgozar Law Firm PLLC. After 1.5 years of putting together evidence and legal briefs, and communicating with the government on requests for the client’s case, Pegah of Rahgozar Law Firm PLLC successfully prepared the client and sent him to his home country to attend an interview at the consulate. After a two-week stay, the client obtained his immigrant visa and re-entered the U.S. to receive his green card and legally rejoin his wife and their three children. His next step is application for citizenship.

How long did it take to adopt a child?

Two U.S. citizens hired Rahgozar Law Firm PLLC to help them with a complex and emotionally taxing immigration adoption case. The legal process took 2.5 years, due to numerous requests from the government to show the legitimacy of the adoption. The couple also received a notice of intent to deny, which the legal team overcame with countless hours of legal research, writing and responses to the government. The family is now together; the child has been granted a green card and is in the process of obtaining citizenship.

What is the job of an immigration lawyer in 2020?

citizenship and immigration process. Immigration attorneys focus on the nuances of immigration law to aid you in your process. An immigration attorney can assist U.S.

How long does it take to get a green card?

In family-based immigration, a U.S. citizen petitions for permanent residence (a green card) on behalf of a spouse, a fiancee or other family members. Cases can take years to complete; once the application process is complete, there is a significant waiting period for visas for spouses, parents and unmarried children under 21.

Is immigration legal draining?

Immigration laws are complex, and immigration cases can be emotionally and financially draining if you don't have the right advocate by your side. Research the attorney’s background and reputation, the cases they've handled, and their success rates — especially for complex cases.

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Are You Ready to Apply For Citizenship?

  • The cost of applying for U.S. citizenship will depend greatly on whether or not you are currently eligible to begin the naturalization process. In some cases, you may already be a U.S. citizen and not even know it. If you are not already a U.S. citizen, then the next step will be to determine whether you are eligibleto begin applying for U.S. citizenship. Having a green card (“permanent r…
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Other Cost Considerations

  • Regardless of whether you are a legal permanent resident or not, factors like a criminal historyor a negative immigration history can make the process much more complex, and therefore more expensive. In these cases, you must submit additional forms, which require even more government fees, more of your attorney’s time, and more prepared documents. Given these pote…
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Are There Ways to Lower The Cost?

  • Certainly. Technically, applying for citizenship just means submitting the correct forms and evidence to the right places. This means that an attorney isn’t required, even if hiring an attorney is highly recommended. However, before choosing to file your application yourself, you should consider the value an attorney brings to the table. As we noted above, the costs can rise expone…
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Conclusion

  • While becoming a naturalized citizen can be a rewarding experience, the process of naturalization is both expensive and riddled with complexity. For most naturalization cases, hiring an experienced immigration attorney will give your application the best chance of success. Further, hiring an attorney can actually save you a great deal of time and money in the long run due to ho…
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