How much does an immigration lawyer cost?

Immigration lawyers are experts in the nuances of the highly complex United States immigration system. They help clients of all backgrounds petition for immigration status and become U.S. citizens, and can represent clients who are facing deportation or detention. Nationally, the cost people pay for immigration lawyers averages $500-$1,010. The services you need will have a huge effect on your costs. For routines cases, such as applying for a travel visa, an immigration lawyer may be able to confidently quote you a set price, while more open-ended cases may be billed at an hourly rate of $200-$500, or more, depending on the reputation and experience of the firm and lawyer. Before hiring an immigration lawyer, ask what their plan for your case is and what expected costs may be. Many immigration lawyers work from retainers, and request a set amount of money upfront from which to work. For example, a lawyer who charges $300 per hour may estimate $4,000 for a standard family-based immigration case, the common process in which a U.S. citizen petitions for permanent residency for their spouse, fiancee or family members.