Is there a higher cost to bring dependents through consular processing?

Under EB-2 NIW, the principal applicant may include a spouse and unmarried children within the age limit as dependents. In consular processing, each dependent files their own visa application and does not simply ‘enter’ under the principal’s petition.

So yes: adding dependents typically generates additional costs. Each person goes through the same steps as the principal applicant, with their own visa fees, medical examination, and supporting documentation. Because the cost of each item changes over time and according to current policy, there is no fixed figure to state here.

• Each dependent submits their own application and pays the corresponding fees.
• Medical exams and supporting documents are also individual.
• Costs change periodically, so plan based on the official fee schedules.

Before budgeting the family’s process, confirm the current costs through official sources (USCIS and the Department of State) or with a specialist, to properly account for all dependents’ expenses.

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Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

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As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.