A resident card, also known as a green card in the United States or a permanent residency card in many other countries, is a highly sought – after document that allows foreign nationals to live and work permanently in a new country. However, the process of obtaining one often comes with financial implications. In this article, we will delve into the costs associated with getting a resident card across different regions.
Costs in the United States
Application Fees for Green Cards
Family – Based Green Cards
For family – based green card applications in the US, there are several fees involved. The I – 130 form, which is used to petition for a relative, has a filing fee. As of [current year], the fee for the I – 130 form is $535. This fee is paid by the US citizen or permanent resident who is sponsoring their family member.
If the applicant is adjusting their status within the United States using the I – 485 form, there are additional fees. For adults, the I – 485 filing fee is 1,140. However, if the applicant is under 14 years old, the fee is 750. These fees cover the processing costs by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for evaluating the application.
Employment – Based Green Cards
Employment – based green card applications are more complex and costly. The Labor Certification (PERM) process, which is often the first step for many employment – based green cards, may involve costs associated with advertising the job, prevailing wage determination, and attorney fees if using a lawyer. The Department of Labor does not charge a fee for the PERM application itself, but employers typically spend around 2,000 – 5,000 on related costs.
After the PERM is approved, the employer files the I – 140 immigrant petition. The filing fee for the I – 140 is 700. If the applicant is adjusting their status in the US using the I – 485 form, the same fees as in family – based cases apply (1,140 for adults and $750 for those under 14).
Biometric Services Fee
Purpose and Cost
As part of the green card application process, applicants are usually required to provide biometric information, such as fingerprints and a photo. The biometric services fee is $85. This fee covers the cost of the biometric appointment at a USCIS Application Support Center. The biometric data is used for security and identity verification purposes, ensuring that the applicant’s identity can be accurately confirmed throughout the immigration process.
Costs in Canada
Permanent Residency Application Fees
Express Entry Program
In Canada, for applicants using the Express Entry system to obtain permanent residency, there are several fees. The cost of the permanent residency application for the main applicant is 825. For each accompanying family member, the fee is also 825. Additionally, there is a Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) of $500 for each applicant over 18 years old. The RPRF is a one – time fee that goes towards the processing of the application and is payable only if the application is approved.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Provincial Nominee Programs in Canada have their own fee structures. For example, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) charges a nomination application fee. The fee can vary depending on the specific stream of the OINP.
Some streams may have a fee of around $1,500 for the nomination application. After receiving a nomination, the applicant still needs to apply for permanent residency through the federal government, and the associated fees mentioned above for the Express Entry system (if applicable) will also apply.
Costs in Australia
Subclass 189 and 190 Visa Application Fees
Skilled Independent and Skilled Nominated Visas
For the Subclass 189 (Skilled Independent) and Subclass 190 (Skilled Nominated) visas in Australia, the application fees are significant. As of [current year], the application fee for the main applicant is 4,115. For each additional adult family member, the fee is 2,055, and for each child under 18, the fee is $1,030. These visas are for skilled workers who want to immigrate to Australia permanently.
Health and Character Clearance Costs
In addition to the visa application fee, applicants need to undergo health and character checks. The cost of the medical examination can vary depending on the provider and the type of examination required. On average, a basic medical examination for an adult may cost around 200 – 300. For character checks, there may be fees associated with obtaining police clearance certificates from the applicant’s home country, which can also vary but are typically a few hundred dollars depending on the country’s requirements.
Costs in the United Kingdom
Skilled Worker Visa and Indefinite Leave to Remain Fees
Skilled Worker Visa
To obtain a Skilled Worker visa in the UK, there is an application fee. For applications made outside the UK, the fee is £625 for a visa valid for up to three years. If the visa is for more than three years, the fee is £1,235. These fees cover the processing of the visa application by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
For those who want to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which is similar to a permanent residency status in the UK, the application fee is £2,389. This fee is applicable when the applicant meets the requirements for long – term settlement in the UK, such as having lived in the UK on a valid visa for a certain number of years and meeting other conditions like English language proficiency and knowledge of life in the UK.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cost of obtaining a resident card varies greatly depending on the country and the type of residency application. In the United States, family – based and employment – based green card applications have different fee structures, including filing fees for various forms and biometric service fees. Canada’s Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs also have their own sets of fees, along with the Right of Permanent Residence Fee. Australia’s skilled visa applications come with significant fees, and additional costs for health and character checks. In the UK, Skilled Worker visa and Indefinite Leave to Remain applications have specific fee amounts. When considering applying for a resident card in any country, it’s crucial to budget for these costs and be aware that there may be other associated expenses, such as legal fees if using an immigration lawyer. By understanding the costs involved, applicants can better plan their immigration journey and make informed decisions.
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