. Since you have a masters degree, you are qualified under EB2. 1. what will be the approximate cost and the time frame for the whole process? --Cost varies according to the lawyer. I would say from 2-4K. The whole process can be done less than six months if you have very active lawyer - who knows what to do. (keep that in mind that your visa is C) 2. would it make a difference if i add my spouse for EAD after approval of I140? would it cost more? would it slow down my process? would my spouse have the same benefits as me? --you cannot add your spouse during your PERM labor or filing on I140. She is only added when filing I485. The only extra cost would be if you want to get AP or EAD for her, plus the medical and filing fee for your I485. 3. She is also currently under H1 and has an opportunity to file for GC through her employer as well. which would be better: both applying individually or she as my dependent? --Both applying individually gives you an opportunity that can run both application at the same time. USCIS sometimes draws the lucky ones and processes their applications. I suggest you to apply from both means if possible. Once you get EAD, and you use to work, then your H1B is not valid anymore. So for some reason your I485 gets rejected, you will lose all your status. (Be Careful). You can send me email: laborperm@gmail.com for any more info. I won't charge a dime, give me what you can if you feel like my service would help you in long run.