How Much Does an EB-2 NIW Cost?
For a self-petitioned EB-2 NIW, U.S. government filing fees start at about $1,015 for the petition itself: Form I-140 ($715) plus the reduced $300 Asylum Program Fee. Your realistic all-in government cost runs from roughly $1,600 if you process your green card abroad without expediting, up to about $5,400 if you adjust status inside the U.S. with premium processing. The biggest single variable is optional attorney fees, commonly $5,000-$10,000, since the NIW can be self-filed. None of these require an employer or a job offer.
Stage-by-stage government fees
| Stage | Fee | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petition | Form I-140 base | $715 | $665 online |
| Petition | Asylum Program Fee | $300 | Reduced self-petitioner rate (≤25 emp.) |
| Petition | Premium processing (optional) | $2,965 | 45 business days |
| Green card (abroad) | DS-260 immigrant visa fee | $345 | State Dept, employment-based tier |
| Green card (abroad) | USCIS Immigrant Fee | $235 | Produces the physical green card |
| Green card (in U.S.) | Form I-485 (adjustment) | $1,440 | $1,390 online; includes biometrics |
| Green card (in U.S.) | I-765 work permit (optional) | $260 | While adjustment is pending |
| Green card (in U.S.) | I-131 travel permit (optional) | $630 | While adjustment is pending |
You use one green-card path, not both. Process abroad (consular: DS-260 + USCIS Immigrant Fee) OR adjust status inside the U.S. (Form I-485). The I-485 replaces the two consular fees. The Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) is generally not required for a self-petitioned NIW, because there is no sponsoring employer or relative.
What it actually totals (government fees only)
| Scenario | What's included | Govt total |
|---|---|---|
| Leanest: consular, no premium | I-140 + Asylum Fee + DS-260 + USCIS Immigrant Fee | ~$1,595 |
| Consular + premium processing | Above + I-907 | ~$4,560 |
| Adjustment of status, no premium | I-140 + Asylum Fee + I-485 | ~$2,455 |
| Adjustment + premium processing | Above + I-907 | ~$5,420 |
The variable costs (estimates, not government fees)
| Cost | Typical range | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Immigration attorney | $5,000-$10,000+ | Optional: NIW can be self-filed |
| Credential evaluation (foreign degree → U.S. equivalency) | ~$200-$400 | Usually, for foreign-educated applicants |
| Document translation | Varies (per page) | If documents aren't in English |
| Medical exam (panel physician / civil surgeon) | $100-$500+ | Yes, at the green-card stage |
| Expert / recommendation letters | Usually $0 (your network) | Recommended for a strong petition |
For African applicants filing from home
- Credential evaluation is almost always needed to convert your degree to U.S. equivalency (WES and similar). Budget for it early, before drafting.
- You'll process at a U.S. consulate (for Nigeria, Lagos or Abuja) via DS-260, then complete a medical exam with a designated panel physician.
- All fees are paid in U.S. dollars. Factor in FX and card/transfer costs on every government payment.
- No Affidavit of Support to fund. Because the NIW is self-petitioned, the I-864 sponsor requirement most people expect generally does not apply.
Frequently asked questions
What's the cheapest way to do an EB-2 NIW?
Do I have to pay for premium processing?
Is an attorney required for an EB-2 NIW?
Are the fees refundable if I'm denied?
Does the cost change if my family comes too?
Before you spend a dollar, see if you qualify.
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