How Much Does It Cost to Apply for TPS?

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) offers a temporary immigration solution for eligible individuals from designated countries facing conditions that prevent their safe return. These conditions often include armed conflict, environmental disaster, or other extraordinary circumstances. Individuals granted TPS can live and work in the United States for a specific period. This article outlines the financial costs associated with applying for and maintaining TPS.

Government Filing Fees

Applying for Temporary Protected Status involves fees imposed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). These fees cover processing application forms. USCIS fees can change, so applicants should verify current amounts on the official USCIS website.

Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status, is the primary form for TPS. As of July 22, 2025, the initial application fee is $500. For re-registration, there is no fee for Form I-821. This applies to applicants renewing their status.

Many TPS applicants seek employment authorization, requiring Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. The initial I-765 application fee for TPS holders is $550 as of July 22, 2025. Applicants not seeking employment authorization do not need to file Form I-765 or pay its fee.

A biometric services fee is required for identity verification, including fingerprints and photographs. The fee is $30 for TPS applicants as of April 1, 2024, lowered from $85. It applies to individuals aged 14 to 79 and may be eligible for a waiver.

Form I-601, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility, may be required in certain situations. This form addresses issues that would make an individual ineligible to remain in the United States. The filing fee for Form I-601 is $1,050 as of 2025, payable at submission.

USCIS offers fee waivers for certain forms, including the biometric services fee and Form I-765, for applicants facing financial difficulties. Applicants must submit Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, with their application. Eligibility is based on receiving a means-tested benefit or having a household income at or below 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Legal Assistance Expenses

Many TPS applicants seek legal representation. An immigration attorney can guide applicants through the complex process, especially those with language barriers or intricate legal requirements. The decision depends on case complexity and familiarity with immigration law.

Attorneys charge flat fees or hourly rates. Flat fees cover a specific service, like preparing a TPS application, offering predictability. Hourly rates, from $150 to $700 per hour, are common for cases with unpredictable needs or ongoing legal challenges. Total cost varies by attorney experience, location, and case details.

Legal fees are influenced by case complexity, including prior immigration violations or criminal records. Additional services, such as appeals or waivers, increase the overall cost. Initial TPS legal fees can range from a few hundred dollars for basic assistance to several thousand for complex situations, potentially reaching $5,000.

Alternative legal assistance is available. Non-profit organizations and community legal clinics provide low-cost or free immigration services. They are a resource for those who cannot afford private attorneys. Some attorneys offer pro bono services, providing free legal assistance.

Additional Related Expenses

Beyond government and legal fees, TPS applicants may incur other expenses. These costs accumulate and should be factored into financial planning. Planning for these expenses helps ensure a smoother application.

Translation services are necessary for non-English supporting documents. USCIS requires certified translations for foreign language documents, such as birth or marriage certificates. Costs range from $0.10 to $0.16 per word, or $19.95 to $24.95 per page. Price depends on document length, language pair, and urgency.

Applicants also incur costs for documentation. This includes fees for copies of personal records, like medical or school records, and mail services to USCIS or legal representatives. Required passport-style photos cost $7 to $17 at retail locations.

Travel expenses may arise from attending USCIS appointments, like biometric collection, or visiting an attorney. Distance and transportation mode determine these costs. A medical examination, while not generally required for initial TPS applications, may be needed for specific circumstances or waivers, incurring additional fees.

Managing Application Costs

Managing TPS application costs requires planning and awareness of resources. Applicants can explore strategies to mitigate costs, making the process more accessible. Understanding these options can reduce the financial burden.

Utilizing USCIS fee waivers is a primary way to reduce costs. Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, allows eligible applicants to request exemption from certain filing fees. Eligibility is based on income below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or receiving means-tested public benefits. Correct submission with supporting documentation is important for a successful request.

Non-profit organizations and community legal aid groups provide low-cost or free immigration assistance. They help individuals who cannot afford legal services. Applicants can research and contact local non-profits specializing in immigration law for services and eligibility. These groups offer guidance, help prepare forms, and sometimes provide full representation.

Some attorneys and legal service providers offer payment plans, allowing installment payments instead of a single upfront sum. This makes legal assistance more manageable by spreading costs. Discuss payment options early in the consultation process.

Some individuals choose to prepare their TPS application independently, though this is not suitable for everyone due to immigration law complexities. This eliminates legal fees but requires thorough research and understanding of USCIS requirements and forms. Applicants should review all instructions and gather supporting documentation to avoid delays or rejections.