Q: What is the process if your child is 21 years and a US citizen filing for mother? cost?

A: The cost of filing a 485 is $1440 and the cost of filing the 130 is currently $675. Those are the government filing fees. Attorney fees vary from a low of $1000 up to $6,000. Some of us charge a flat fee at the very low end of that range and an immigration attorney in any state can represent you.

A: If your child is a U.S. citizen and at least 21 years old, they can file a petition for you to become a permanent resident. The process begins with filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). After USCIS approves the petition, the next steps depend on whether you are inside or outside the U.S. If you are already in the country and meet eligibility requirements, you can submit Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. If you are outside the U.S., you will go through consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

The cost of the process varies depending on the steps required. The filing fee for Form I-130 is currently $535. If you are adjusting status from within the U.S., Form I-485 costs $1,225, which includes the biometrics fee. If you are going through consular processing, there are separate fees, including $325 for the visa application and $120 for the affidavit of support. Additional expenses may include medical exams, document translations, and other required paperwork.

Processing times can range from several months to over a year, depending on USCIS workload and any delays at embassies or consulates. Your child will also need to show they can financially support you by submitting Form I-864, Affidavit of Support. If everything is approved, you will receive permanent resident status, allowing you to live and work in the U.S. It’s important to carefully review all requirements and gather the necessary documents to avoid delays in the process.