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Thinking about becoming a U.S. citizen? Here is what you need to know about the costs, who pays them, how to pay, and what to do if you can’t afford it. Check out our U.S. citizenship guide for more details. Not sure if you’re eligible? Start by checking your eligibility here!

N-400 General Eligibility

Green card holders in the U.S. can apply for U.S. citizenship after 3-5 years as a legal permanent resident. Active military or veterans can apply for naturalization one year after getting a green card. Becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization grants you the same rights as a natural-born citizen, except running for President. This includes the right to vote, access to basic civil rights, protection from deportation, and eligibility for certain government benefits.

U.S. Citizenship Costs

How much does it cost to become a U.S. citizen?

As of April 1, 2024 the naturalization fee for a U.S. citizenship application is $760. This fee is for two separate charges:

  • $675 for application processing
  • $85 for biometric services

Both fees are non-refundable, whether your application is approved or denied. Some applicants may qualify for a fee reduction or waiver.

Fee Increase

  • 19% Increase: The new fee represents a 19% increase for some applicants.
  • Long-Term Perspective: The naturalization fee has tripled in the last 20 years, causing financial hardship for many immigrant families. This is particularly challenging for those submitting multiple applications for spouses and children over 18.

Fee Breakdown

Typical Applicants

  • Fee: $760
  • Note: Unless you qualify for a reduction or waiver.

Applicants 75 or Older

  • Fee: $675
  • Note: Exempt from the biometric fee.

Active-Duty Military or Veterans

  • Fee: Exempt
  • Note: Exempt from both the application filing fee and the biometrics fee.

Check Your Fee

Use the USCIS Fee Calculator to determine your fee.

Payment Options

Online Applications

  • Platform: myUSCIS
  • Payment Methods: Online payment options.

Paper Applications

  • Payment Methods:
    • Money order
    • Personal check
    • Cashier’s check
    • Credit card (using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions)

Payment Tips

  • Online Filing Discount: $50 discount for online filing, making it cheaper than filing by mail.
  • Single Payment Method: Use one payment method for both application and biometric fees.
  • Same Payment Method: Use the same payment method if submitting multiple applications (e.g. for family members).
  • Exact Amounts: Make sure payments are exact to avoid rejection.
  • Correct Payee: If paying by check or money order, make it payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security” without abbreviations.
  • Credit Card Payments: Complete and sign Form G-1450, place it on top of Form N-400.
  • US Bank Requirement: The payment must be drawn on a bank or financial institution in the United States and payable in U.S. currency.
  • Application Submission: Paper Clip the check, money order or credit card form to the top of your N-400 application before mailing it to USCIS.
  • Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT): USCIS will convert check payments into an electronic funds transfer (EFT), and will debit your account.
  • Payment Agreement: By paying, you agree to pay for a government service. Filing fees are non-refundable whether your application is approved or denied or if you withdraw your application. Credit or debit card payments cannot be disputed later.
  • Multiple Forms Submission: Pay each fee separately. USCIS is moving to electronic processing and will require multiple systems for your package. If you submit a single payment for multiple forms, it will be rejected.
  • For Applicants Outside the U.S.: Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in your area for specific payment instructions. Be aware of currency exchange rates and other requirements.

Note: USCIS will automatically extend the validity of your Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) for up to 24 months after you file for naturalization. This extension will help applicants with longer processing times and may eliminate the need to file Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, and pay the I-90 fees.

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Can’t Afford the Fees?

If you are unable to afford the naturalization fees, you might qualify for a fee reduction or waiver. Eligibility criteria include having a household income below 150% of federal poverty guidelines or receiving government benefits.

Understanding Fee Reduction, Waiver, and Exemption

First, what is the difference between fee reduction, waiver, or exemption? The citizenship fee waiver is submitted to USCIS along with supporting documentation demonstrating financial hardship.

  • Fee Reduction: USCIS reduces the filing fee to $380 based on household income.
  • Fee Waiver: USCIS waives the entire fee for eligible individuals who can’t pay.
  • Fee Exemption: USCIS does not require a fee for certain forms or categories of requestors (e.g. military members).

Here’s how to determine if you qualify and how to apply.

Fee Reduction Application

Below is the step by step guide on how to apply for a reduced fee.

Eligibility

You can request a reduced fee if:

  • You are filing a paper Form N-400, Application for Naturalization; and
  • You provide documentation showing your household income is less than 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines at the time you file. Check the current eligible income levels based on the Federal Poverty Guidelines for this year.

Reduced Fee Application

  • Form N-400, Part 10: Provide all required information as per the form instructions. Incomplete information or lack of supporting documents will delay processing or result in rejection.
  • Translation: Include a full English translation for all documents in a foreign language along with a certification of accuracy and competence by the translator.

Household Income

You may request a reduced fee if your documented annual household income is below 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. If your income is at or below 150% of these guidelines, consider filing a fee waiver request using Form I-912.

  • Include your Spouse’s Income: if they live outside the U.S. and support your household. If your spouse provides no support, include a statement explaining this situation. If you are applying as a battered or abused spouse of a U.S. citizen, do not include that spouse’s income.
  • Household Size and Income: Include all members of your household, such as yourself, your spouse (if living with you), children, legal wards, parents, and any other dependents listed on your federal tax return.
    • Do not count income from relatives or roommates who do not financially support your household. Include specific financial contributions used to support your household.
  • Example 1: If your uncle lives in your house and pays $1,000 towards your mortgage, that amount is included as income.
  • Example 2: If you share an apartment with a roommate who does not financially support you, do not include the roommate’s income.
  • Marital Separation: Provide a signed statement or documentation showing that your spouse does not live with you and provides no income assistance. Acceptable documents include:
    • Court order of legal separation
    • Notarized property settlement agreements
    • Financial support agreements or separate mortgage
    • Lease or utility bills.
  • Affidavit of Support: If someone filed Form I-134 or Form I-864 for you, consider their income or assets only if they are currently a member of your household.

Common Reasons for Reduced Fee Denial

Here are common reasons why USCIS will deny your reduced fee request:

  1. Lack of Evidence: If you do not provide sufficient proof that your household income is less than 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
  2. Translation Issues: If you submit documents in support of your request that are not in English and do not include a certified English translation.

If your reduced fee request is denied and you need further clarification, review the denial notice (Form I-797, Notice of Action).Contact USCIS at lockboxsupport@uscis.dhs.gov.

Fee Waiver (Form I-912)

USCIS is funded by application and petition fees. Since some applicants cannot afford these fees, USCIS offers a citizenship fee waiver process for certain forms and benefits. The citizenship fee waiver is submitted to USCIS with supporting documentation demonstrating financial hardship, such as receiving government benefits or having a household income below 150% of federal poverty guidelines. Fee waivers are approved only if you can show you cannot pay the filing fees.

Requesting a Fee Waiver

If you cannot afford the naturalization fee, you can request a full fee waiver by filling out Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, and submitting it with your Form N-400. Include evidence that you meet the eligibility criteria. Mark “Fee Waiver Request” on the mailing envelope and at the top of the Form N-400.

After Submission

  • If Approved: You will receive a receipt notice in the mail that USCIS has received your application.
  • If Denied: Your entire application package will be returned with a denial notice. You can reapply with additional evidence if needed.

Will a Fee Waiver Request Hold Up My Application?

A fee waiver request should not hold up your application too long. You will usually get a response within 2-4 weeks. If you don’t get a response within that time, contact an immigration lawyer or an accredited representative.

Impact on Eligibility and Deportability

Filing a fee waiver does not affect your eligibility for naturalization or make you deportable. Some people worry that filing a fee waiver will make them a “public charge” (someone who depends on government financial support). But being a public charge does not affect your citizenship eligibility. Receiving public benefits legally does not affect your citizenship application.

Eligibility for a Fee Waiver

You can request a fee waiver if:

  • The form you are filing is eligible for a fee waiver and you meet any applicable conditions (see the Fee Schedule page).
  • You provide documentation showing you qualify based on one of the following:
    • You, your spouse, your child, your parent (if you are under 21 or disabled), or your sibling (if you and the sibling are under 21) living with you, are currently receiving a means-tested benefit.
    • Your household income is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines at the time you file.
    • You are currently experiencing extreme financial hardship, including unexpected medical bills or emergencies, and cannot pay the filing fee.

For more information, see the USCIS Fact Sheet on Fee Waivers for N-400 applicants:

Also see USCIS Fact Sheet on efforts to support the naturalization of the homeless.

How to Submit a Fee Waiver Request

Fill out Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver:

  1. Follow Instructions: Follow all instructions, complete all sections, and submit required documentation.
  2. Means-Tested Benefits: A means-tested benefit is a public benefit given based on income and resources. Examples are Medicaid, SNAP, and TANF. Provide documentation that you or your qualifying family member are currently receiving such a benefit.
  3. Household Income: You may qualify if your household income is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Include the income of the head of household and all household members.
  4. Extreme Financial Hardship: Describe in detail and provide evidence of extreme financial hardship. This can be medical bills, pay stubs, utility bills, rental agreements, or proof of unstable housing. If you don’t have documentation, explain why and consider including an affidavit from a community member vouching for you.

Reasons for I-912 Denial

USCIS may deny your fee waiver if:

  • The form you are requesting a waiver for is not eligible.
  • You didn’t sign Form I-912 or provide a reason for the waiver.
  • You didn’t provide evidence of receiving a means-tested benefit, household income at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or extreme financial hardship.
  • You submitted evidence in a language other than English without a certified translation.
  • You submitted Form I-912 without the petition or application form.

If denied, review the denial notice (Form I-797, Notice of Action) and email lockboxsupport@uscis.dhs.gov if you need more information.

Multilingual Resources on I-912 Waiver of Fees

For applicants who need information in languages other than English, USCIS provides resources in multiple languages to help with the I-912 Fee Waiver process. Here are some of the available resources:

Other Ways to Raise Money for Filing Fees and Save Money

If you can’t pay the naturalization fees and can’t get a fee reduction or waiver, here are some alternatives to help you raise the funds

  1. Ask Organizations for Help: Reach out to religious or community organizations you are involved with. Many of these groups provide financial assistance for immigrants with application fees.
  2. Ask Friends and Family: Although it’s uncomfortable, asking friends and family for help is an option. Consider adding your fees to your birthday wish list or special occasion to help fund your American Dream.
  3. Crowdfund Your Fees: Crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe can help you raise money. Share your story and seek support from friends, family, and even strangers who believe in your cause. Be aware that some platforms take a percentage of the funds raised as their fee.
  4. Pay with a Credit Card: If you can’t pay the fees upfront but expect to have the funds soon, consider using a credit card. Use Form G-1450 to authorize credit card transactions and submit it with your application.
  5. Work with a Legal Aid Office: Legal aid offices often have immigration lawyers who offer services at reduced rates. They can help you with your application and ensure everything is filed correctly to avoid complications.

What You Need to Know About Recent Fee Increases

On January 31, 2024, USCIS published a final rule that raised fees for many immigration and naturalization services for the first time since 2016. This rule went into effect on April 1, 2024, and they mark a significant shift in how USCIS funds its operations. Here’s a rundown of what this means for you.

Why Are Fees Going Up?

The main reason for this fee increase is to recover operating costs fully and to support new applications. Unlike most federal agencies, USCIS is almost entirely fee funded, with about 96% of its budget coming from filing fees and about 4% from congressional appropriations.

How Will This Impact USCIS?

The fee increase aims to:

  • Reduce Backlogs: The extra revenue will help USCIS manage the high volume of applications and prevent backlogs.
  • Boost Efficiency: Funds will be used to hire more staff and improve case processing and customer service.
  • Ensure Timely Processing: With the new fees, USCIS hopes to process applications more quickly and avoid future delays.

What Does This Mean for You?

  • Faster Processing: The goal is to improve processing times, which have already seen some improvement. For example, wait times for naturalization applications dropped from 10½ months to 6 months in 2023. However, wait times still vary greatly by region, But wait times can vary greatly by region, from 3 months in Cleveland to 8 months in Minneapolis and Kansas City.
  • Better Service: The increased funds are intended to support the development and implementation of tools that improve efficiency and customer experience.

A Step Up from Previous Proposals

This fee increase is much lower than what the Trump the Trump administration’s 2020 proposal, which sought to raise naturalization fees by over 80% to $1,170, and eliminate fee waivers for vulnerable groups. That proposal was blocked by a federal judge for not providing adequate notice and public comment.

Impact on Families

Even though this fee increase is less dramatic than previous proposals, it can still be a challenge for families. If multiple family members are applying for naturalization at the same time, the costs can quickly add. And remember, application fees are non-refundable, regardless of whether your application is approved or denied.

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The True Costs of Not Becoming a U.S. Citizen

While the fees associated with the citizenship application process can seem steep, the long-term costs of remaining a green card holder or not pursuing citizenship can be even higher. Here’s why becoming a U.S. citizen can save you money and offer substantial benefits in the long run.

  1. No more I-90 Green Card Renewal Fees: Green card holders must renew their Permanent Resident Cards(Form I-90) every 10 years. This recurring cost adds up over time and can amount to thousands of dollars throughout your life. By becoming a citizen, you eliminate these renewal fees and avoid the lengthy processing times associated with green card renewals.
  2. Risk of Deportation: Unlike U.S. citizens, Green Card holders face the risk of deportation and barred from re-entering the U.S. for minor infractions like criminal tax issues, multiple moral turpitude misdemeanors, misdemeanor domestic violence, firearm offenses and many other things. U.S. citizenship provides constitutional protections that secure your right to stay in the U.S., regardless of any minor infractions.
  3. Family Reunification: U.S. citizens have an advantage when it comes to bringing family members to the U.S. Citizens’ relatives receive priority processing from USCIS, significantly reducing wait times compared to green card holders, whose family members might face longer delays.
  4. The Right to Vote: Only U.S. citizens have the right to vote in federal elections and can run for most elected offices. This involvement in the democratic process allows you to have a say towards the country and local communities.
  5. More Job Opportunities: Many federal jobs, which offer excellent benefits and job security, are only available to U.S. citizens. By becoming a citizen, you unlock access to a wider range of job opportunities and career advancements.
  6. International Protection: U.S. citizens receive protection and assistance from U.S. embassies and consulates while abroad. This includes help for crime victims, emergency aid during international crises, and more comprehensive support while traveling or living outside the U.S.
  7. Access to Student Aid: The federal government provides various scholarships and grants that are exclusively available to U.S. citizens. Becoming a citizen can open doors to financial aid that makes higher education more affordable.
  8. Other Government Benefits: U.S. citizens may be eligible for other government benefits not available to permanent residents. This can include certain social services and assistance programs that provide more support and security.

Application Tips

  • Plan: Gather all necessary documents and information before you start.
  • Check for Fee Reductions: See if you qualify for any fee reductions or waivers to lower your costs.
  • Read Instructions: Carefully review all instructions for Form N-400 and payment forms.
  • Pay Correct Fee: Ensure you pay the correct amount and follow the specified payment methods.
  • Stay Up to Date: Regularly check the USCIS website for updates on fees and application procedures.
  • Don’t Miss Deadlines: Keep track of deadlines for forms and payments to avoid delays. Submit all documents and payments on time to ensure a smooth application process.

Application Process

The naturalization process includes multiple steps, such as completing Form N-400, attending a biometrics appointment, and preparing for the citizenship tests. Each step has specific requirements, so careful preparation is essential.

Test Preparation

The test is a big part of the naturalization process. It includes questions on U.S. history and government and demonstration of sufficient English fluency. Preparation is key to passing the test.

Ready to Start Your Journey to U.S. Citizenship?

Understanding the costs and benefits of becoming a U.S. citizen helps you make an informed decision about your naturalization journey. By navigating the fees, payment methods, and potential reductions or waivers, you can better manage the process.

For personalized assistance and professional guidance, contact Herman Legal Group at 1-216-696-6170. Our team will support you through every step of the process, helping you achieve your American Dream.

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