The DS-260, also known as the Immigrant Visa Electronic Application, is a crucial step for individuals seeking to immigrate to the United States. It is typically submitted by applicants who have been selected for an immigrant visa, including those through family-based immigration, employment-based immigration, and the Diversity Visa (DV) lottery program. One of the most common questions asked by prospective immigrants is, “How much does it cost to file the DS-260 form?”
This article provides a detailed breakdown of all costs associated with the DS-260 process. We will cover not only the filing fee itself but also related expenses such as supporting documentation, medical examination, translation, travel, and other potential costs that may arise throughout the immigration process. Whether you are planning for yourself or helping a family member navigate U.S. immigration, understanding the full financial picture is essential.
What is Form DS-260?
Form DS-260 is the Immigrant Visa Electronic Application form required by the U.S. Department of State. It is filled out online through the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) and is used to collect the necessary information from immigrants applying for a visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy abroad.
The DS-260 replaces older paper forms and streamlines the process of applying for an immigrant visa. Once the National Visa Center (NVC) notifies an applicant that their case is ready for consular processing, the DS-260 becomes the next required step. Submission of this form is mandatory before scheduling a visa interview.
Who Needs to File the DS-260?
Not every immigrant must file Form DS-260. This form is typically required for applicants who are:
- Outside the United States and applying for an immigrant visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy.
- Diversity Visa (DV) lottery winners.
- Sponsored family members or employees who have completed the initial stages with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Applicants filing for adjustment of status within the U.S. usually complete Form I-485 instead of DS-260.
Basic Filing Fee for Form DS-260
Surprisingly to many applicants, there is no direct fee charged for the actual submission of the DS-260 form itself. Filling and submitting the DS-260 online via the CEAC website does not require a separate payment. However, this does not mean the entire process is free. Several related costs are associated with the DS-260 and overall immigrant visa processing.
Mandatory Associated Fees
Immigrant Visa Application Processing Fee
The main fee connected to DS-260 is the Immigrant Visa Application Processing Fee, charged by the U.S. Department of State. As of 2025, the standard fee is:
- $325 for most immigrant visa categories (family-sponsored, employment-based, etc.)
- $330 for Diversity Visa (DV) applicants
This fee must be paid before the DS-260 can be submitted and processed. The payment is typically made through the CEAC website using a credit card or electronic bank transfer.
Affidavit of Support Fee
Another required fee is the Affidavit of Support processing fee, applicable to most family-sponsored visa applicants. This fee is:
- $120 – paid to the National Visa Center (NVC) by the petitioner or sponsor
Only one Affidavit of Support fee is charged per case, even if multiple family members are included. It helps cover the cost of verifying financial documents submitted by the U.S.-based sponsor.
USCIS Immigrant Fee
After your visa is approved and before traveling to the United States, new immigrants must pay the USCIS Immigrant Fee. This fee supports the production and delivery of your Permanent Resident Card (Green Card). As of now, the fee is:
- $220 – payable online through the USCIS website
Medical Examination Fees
A required part of the immigrant visa process is undergoing a medical examination by a physician authorized by the U.S. embassy or consulate. The cost of this exam varies by country, clinic, and required vaccinations. General price range:
- $100 to $500+ per person
Costs may increase if additional vaccinations or tests are needed. For families, these expenses can add up significantly, so it’s advisable to contact the designated medical clinic for an exact quote in your country.
Translation and Document Preparation Costs
All documents submitted in support of your DS-260 must be in English or accompanied by a certified English translation. You may need to translate birth certificates, police records, marriage licenses, and other civil documents. Translation fees typically include:
- $20 to $50 per page for certified translations
Applicants should also budget for document copying, notarization, and courier services if required by the NVC or U.S. consulate.
Passport Fees
If you don’t already have a valid passport, obtaining one is a requirement for visa processing. Passport costs depend on your country’s issuance fees. In most countries, the cost ranges from:
- $50 to $150 per passport
Travel Expenses
Once your visa is approved, you will need to travel to the United States. This could include:
- Airfare for all family members
- Transportation to the U.S. embassy or consulate for your interview
- Accommodation if you need to stay overnight before or after your visa interview
These travel-related expenses vary widely based on your location and number of travelers. It is not uncommon for families to spend:
- $1,000 to $5,000+ for international travel
Attorney or Consultant Fees
Some applicants choose to work with immigration attorneys or consultants for guidance throughout the process. While not required, professional help can ensure documents are properly completed and submitted. Fees for legal representation vary widely:
- $500 to $5,000+ depending on the complexity of the case
Miscellaneous and Hidden Costs
Additional costs may arise during your visa application journey, such as:
- Obtaining police clearance certificates
- Printing and scanning documents
- Postage and courier fees for sending papers to the NVC
These expenses are often overlooked but can collectively amount to another $100 to $300.
Total Estimated Cost Breakdown
Here is a general overview of the total expected costs for a single DS-260 applicant:
- Immigrant Visa Fee: $325 – $330
- Affidavit of Support Fee: $120
- USCIS Immigrant Fee: $220
- Medical Exam: $100 – $500+
- Translations and Documents: $100 – $300
- Passport: $50 – $150
- Travel: $1,000 – $5,000+
- Legal Services (optional): $500 – $5,000+
- Miscellaneous: $100 – $300
Estimated Total (without legal help): $2,000 – $6,000+
Estimated Total (with legal help): $2,500 – $11,000+
Cost-Saving Tips for DS-260 Applicants
1. Plan Early and Budget Wisely
Start collecting and preparing documents as soon as you anticipate filing the DS-260. Early planning helps reduce last-minute expenses and missed deadlines.
2. Avoid Unnecessary Legal Fees
For straightforward cases, you may not need an attorney. Many applicants successfully complete the DS-260 on their own using official resources.
3. Compare Medical Clinics
Authorized medical clinics sometimes offer different rates. Compare options within your country and request a detailed fee list before booking your exam.
4. Use Online Translation Services
For basic document translations, online services may be more affordable than in-person translators. Be sure they offer certification if required by the U.S. consulate.
Conclusion
Filing the DS-260 is a critical milestone in your immigration journey, but it comes with several associated costs beyond the form itself. From visa fees to medical exams, translations, and travel, the total expenses can vary significantly depending on your personal situation and location.
Being aware of all potential costs helps you prepare financially and avoid unexpected delays. With careful planning and budgeting, you can navigate the process more confidently and increase your chances of a smooth transition to life in the United States.
Always check the latest fee structures on the official websites of the U.S. Department of State and USCIS, as fees can change periodically. And remember, the investment made during the DS-260 process is one step toward achieving your American dream.
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