Fixed Fee vs. Hourly Rate: What’s the Best Option for Immigration Cases?
by Dos team
by Dos team
At Dos, we believe in making immigration legal services more transparent and predictable. One of the biggest questions people have when hiring an immigration attorney is “How will I be charged—and what’s the best option for my case?”
Here’s a clear breakdown of the two most common attorney fee structures in the U.S., so you can decide which one is right for you.
A fixed fee means you and the attorney agree in advance on a set price for a specific service—no matter how much time it takes to complete.
This is often the preferred option for clients, because:
Fixed fees are common for straightforward immigration services like:
Some attorneys charge by the hour—especially for complex or unpredictable cases. This fee structure means you’ll be billed based on the time the attorney and their team spend on your case.
Hourly rates vary depending on experience:
Before hiring an attorney on an hourly basis, ask for an estimate so you understand the potential total cost.
In the U.S., attorney fees generally do not include fees. Some states may charge additional administrative or filing fees, and all government application fees (USCIS, consulates, etc.) are billed separately.
Be sure to confirm with the attorney exactly what is—and isn't—included in your quoted price.
Whether you're paying a flat fee or by the hour, the final cost of your case may depend on:
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. If your case is relatively simple, a fixed fee offers peace of mind and clarity. For more complex or open-ended cases, an hourly structure might be necessary—but make sure to understand the estimate and scope before agreeing.
At Dos, we make it easy to compare immigration attorneys and see pricing options before committing—so you can hire with confidence.
📘 Also Read >> What’s the Difference Between a Consultation and an Instruction?
