Introduction
Immigration legal costs in Texas depend on the type of visa or immigration benefit, attorney experience, case complexity, and required government filing fees. Texas is generally considered more affordable than states like California or New York, but costs can still increase significantly for complex, high-risk, or contested immigration cases.
This guide explains average immigration legal costs in Texas, including lawyer fees, common visa expenses, and the main factors that influence total costs.
How Much Does Immigration Cost in Texas?
Immigration cases in Texas typically range from under $1,000 for simple applications to $12,000+ for complex or contested cases, depending on the benefit sought.
Typical Cost Snapshot
| Case type | Typical total cost |
|---|---|
| Citizenship (N-400) | $700–$2,000 |
| Family-based green card | $2,000–$4,500 |
| Employment-based visas | $2,500–$7,000+ |
| Asylum / removal defense | $4,000–$12,000+ |
| Government filing fees | $760–$2,000+ |
Average Immigration Lawyer Fees in Texas
Immigration attorneys in Texas commonly charge flat fees for standard applications and hourly rates for complex or defensive matters.
Typical Attorney Fees
| Immigration case | Fee range |
|---|---|
| Family-based green card | $2,000–$4,500 |
| Work visa (H-1B, L-1, O-1) | $2,500–$7,000+ |
| Naturalization (citizenship) | $700–$2,000 |
| Asylum or removal defense | $4,000–$12,000+ |
Fees depend on documentation requirements, prior immigration history, and legal risk.
For a nationwide comparison, see: How Much Do Lawyers Cost in the United States?
Texas Immigration Government Filing Fees
In addition to attorney fees, immigration applicants must pay mandatory government filing fees to USCIS and other agencies.
Common Government Fees
| Filing type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Naturalization (Form N-400) | ~$760 |
| Family-based green card | $1,200–$2,000+ |
| Employment-based visas | Varies by visa type |
| Biometrics | Additional |
Government filing fees are generally non-refundable, even if the application is denied.
Related guide: Court Costs in the United States
Factors That Increase Immigration Legal Costs in Texas
Immigration costs in Texas often rise due to:
- Complex or uncommon visa categories
- Prior visa overstays or immigration violations
- Requests for Evidence (RFEs)
- Appeals or reapplications
- Removal or deportation proceedings
More complicated cases require additional attorney time and higher total fees.
Flat Fees vs Hourly Immigration Costs
Flat-Fee Immigration Cases
- Common for visas and citizenship
- Predictable pricing
- Lower risk of unexpected costs
Hourly-Billed Immigration Cases
- Removal defense and appeals
- Higher potential total costs
- Fees depend on time spent
Clarifying the billing structure early helps control expenses.
How Texas Immigration Costs Compare to Other States
Immigration legal costs in Texas are generally lower than in California and New York, but comparable to states such as Florida and Arizona.
Compare immigration costs nationwide here: Legal Costs by State
How to Reduce Immigration Legal Costs in Texas
Careful preparation can significantly reduce immigration expenses.
Cost-Saving Strategies
- Select the correct visa category from the start
- Submit complete and accurate documentation
- Respond quickly to government requests
- Hire an experienced immigration attorney
- Avoid errors that lead to RFEs or denials
Preventing mistakes is the most effective way to control costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do immigration lawyers in Texas charge upfront?
Yes. Most immigration cases are billed as flat fees paid in advance.
Are government filing fees included in attorney fees?
Usually no. Filing fees are paid separately to USCIS.
Is immigration cheaper in Texas than California?
Generally yes, due to lower attorney rates.
Can I file immigration paperwork without a lawyer?
Yes, but errors often cause delays or denials.
Are immigration fees refundable if denied?
Government fees are not refundable; attorney refund policies vary.
Official Texas Immigration & Legal Resources
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR)
State Bar of Texas
Related Guides
Legal Costs in Texas
Legal Costs by Case Type in the United States
Immigration Legal Costs
Conclusion
Immigration legal costs in Texas range from under $1,000 for simple applications to over $12,000 for complex or contested cases. Attorney fees, government filing costs, and case complexity are the primary drivers of total expenses.
Understanding these costs helps individuals and families plan effectively when navigating the immigration process in Texas.