Introduction
Immigration legal costs in Illinois vary depending on the type of visa or immigration benefit, attorney experience, case complexity, and required government filing fees. Illinois—particularly the Chicago metropolitan area—has a large and active immigration market, which influences both pricing and access to specialized immigration attorneys.
This guide explains average immigration legal costs in Illinois, including lawyer fees, common visa expenses, and the key factors that affect total costs.
How Much Does Immigration Cost in Illinois?
Immigration cases in Illinois typically range from under $1,000 for simple applications to $15,000+ for complex or contested matters, such as asylum or removal defense.
Typical Cost Overview
| Immigration case | Typical total cost |
|---|---|
| Citizenship (N-400) | $800–$2,500 |
| Family-based green card | $2,500–$5,000 |
| Employment-based visas | $3,000–$8,000+ |
| Asylum / removal defense | $5,000–$15,000+ |
| Government filing fees | $760–$2,000+ |
Average Immigration Lawyer Fees in Illinois
Immigration attorneys in Illinois generally charge flat fees for standard applications and hourly rates for complex, high-risk, or defensive cases.
Typical Attorney Fees
| Case type | Fee range |
|---|---|
| Family-based green card | $2,500–$5,000 |
| Work visa (H-1B, L-1, O-1) | $3,000–$8,000+ |
| Naturalization (citizenship) | $800–$2,500 |
| Asylum or removal defense | $5,000–$15,000+ |
Final pricing depends on documentation requirements, prior immigration history, and legal risk.
For a nationwide comparison, see: How Much Do Lawyers Cost in the United States?
Illinois Immigration Government Filing Fees
Attorney fees do not include mandatory government filing fees paid to U.S. immigration 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 category |
| Biometrics | Additional |
Government filing fees are non-refundable, even if the application is denied.
Related guide: Court Costs in the United States
Factors That Increase Immigration Legal Costs in Illinois
Immigration costs in Illinois often rise due to:
- Complex or uncommon visa categories
- Prior immigration violations or overstays
- Requests for Evidence (RFEs)
- Appeals or reapplications
- Removal or deportation proceedings
Cases involving enforcement or prior issues usually require more legal work and higher fees.
Flat Fees vs Hourly Immigration Costs
Flat-Fee Immigration Cases
- Common for visas and citizenship
- Predictable total pricing
- Lower risk of cost overruns
Hourly-Billed Immigration Cases
- Removal defense and appeals
- Higher total costs
- Fees depend on time spent
Always clarify billing terms before hiring an immigration attorney.
How Illinois Immigration Costs Compare to Other States
Immigration legal costs in Illinois are generally lower than New York and California, but comparable to Texas and Florida, particularly in large urban markets.
Compare immigration costs nationwide here: Legal Costs by State
How to Reduce Immigration Legal Costs in Illinois
Careful preparation can significantly reduce total immigration expenses.
Cost-Saving Tips
- Select the correct visa category from the start
- Submit complete and accurate documentation
- Respond quickly to government requests
- Hire an experienced immigration attorney
- Avoid mistakes that lead to RFEs or denials
Errors and delays are the biggest drivers of unnecessary costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are immigration lawyers expensive in Illinois?
Costs are moderate compared to New York or California, but higher in Chicago than rural areas.
Do immigration lawyers charge upfront?
Yes. Most cases require upfront payment under flat-fee agreements.
Are government filing fees included in attorney fees?
No. Filing fees are paid separately to USCIS.
Can I file immigration paperwork without a lawyer?
Yes, but mistakes often cause delays or denials.
Are immigration fees refundable if denied?
Government fees are non-refundable; attorney refund policies vary.
Official Illinois Immigration & Legal Resources
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR)
Illinois State Bar Association
Related Guides
Legal Costs by State
Legal Costs in Illinois
Immigration Legal Costs by State
Conclusion
Immigration legal costs in Illinois range from under $1,000 for simple applications to over $15,000 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 Illinois.