Adjustment of Status Fee meaning:

In the U.S. immigration system, the adjustment of status fee includes processing costs and fees associated with filing forms with USCIS. It can vary depending on the type of application, either family-based or employment-based.

The adjustment of status fee for family-based applications vary depending on the forms required by USCIS. They may include processing fees for forms I-485 and I-130, which are necessary to obtain the green card and establish family relationship. Additional fees may also apply for optional forms like the I-765 for work authorization and the I-131 for travel document. Additionally, biometric and administrative fees should be anticipated.

To alleviate the financial burden of applicants facing specific circumstances, some cases are exempt from paying the adjustment of status fee. These exemptions are implemented to make the adjustment of status process more accessible and fair, particularly for vulnerable individuals and those dependent on others. They generally apply to applicants under the age of 14 and to those filing as refugees, for whom USCIS may also grant exemptions.

In case of a rejected application, the applicant may be eligible for a refund of the adjustment of status fee. To do so, they must submit a refund request to USCIS, along with appropriate supporting documents, such as evidence of ineligibility or changed circumstances.