How Much Does it Cost to Become a US Citizen? (2026 Fees)

Becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization involves government filing fees and, in some cases, additional related expenses. As of April 1, 2024, the standard Form N-400 fee ranges from $710 to $760, depending on how the application is filed.

However, the total naturalization cost can vary depending on eligibility for fee reductions, professional assistance, and other supporting requirements.

Government filing fees for naturalization

The primary cost to become a U.S. citizen is the filing fee for Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization).

Standard USCIS Fees (Effective April 1, 2024)

• $760 – Paper filing
• $710 – Online filing (includes a $50 discount)
• Biometrics services (fingerprints and photographs) are now included in the total filing fee.

An older fee structure lists:

• $640 application fee
• $85 biometrics fee
• Total: $725

Special categories

• Applicants over 75 years old pay $640 and are exempt from biometrics fees.
• Individuals applying based on military service or veteran status are generally exempt from the naturalization filing fee.

USCIS reviews its fee schedule approximately every two years, meaning U.S. citizenship fees may change over time.

Additional costs that may apply

Beyond the Form N-400 fee, some applicants may incur additional expenses related to their immigration history or preparation.

Prior immigration-related government costs

• Immigrant visa: $799 to $1,880
• Green card: Approximately $2,400
• Form I-881 (Cancel/Suspend Removal): $1,800
• Form I-765 (Work Authorization): $490
• DACA renewal: $765
• Asylum application: $50

These costs are separate from naturalization but may be part of the broader immigration journey.

Typical related preparation expenses

• Professional application preparation: $150 to $2,000
• Private immigration attorney fees: $500 to $1,200, potentially up to $4,000
• Online assistance services: $150 to $350
• Certified document translations: $20 to $40 per document
• English or civics classes
• Shipping, passport-style photographs, and travel to USCIS appointments

These expenses vary depending on individual circumstances and whether assistance is used.

Fee waivers or reductions

Some applicants may qualify for a reduced naturalization cost.

Full fee waiver

A fee waiver allows eligible applicants to pay $0 for the Form N-400 filing fee.

To qualify, an applicant must demonstrate:

• Receipt of a public benefit (such as Medicaid, SNAP, TANF, or SSI), or
• Household income at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or
• Significant financial hardship (such as medical emergencies)

A fee waiver requires filing Form I-912 and must be submitted via paper application by mail.

Reduced fee

Applicants whose household income is between 150% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines may qualify for a reduced fee of:

• $380

A reduced fee request is submitted through Form I-942 or Part 10 of Form N-400.

Fee waivers and reductions cannot be processed online and require paper filing.

Typical timelines and payment considerations

Naturalization fees must be paid correctly to avoid delays.

Important payment rules include:

• Fees are non-refundable, even if the application is denied.
• USCIS will reject applications if:
  • The payment is not the exact amount.
  • A credit card payment is declined.
• Checks or money orders must be made payable to:
  • U.S. Department of Homeland Security
  • Abbreviations such as “USDHS” or “DHS” are not accepted.

Submitting a fee waiver or reduction request may add several months to overall processing time. If a waiver request is rejected, the entire application is returned and must be refiled.

Applicants on probation at the time of their interview will not be granted naturalization.

Important limitations or cost misunderstandings

Several common misunderstandings exist regarding the cost of becoming a U.S. citizen:

• The naturalization cost does not include prior green card or visa fees.
• Hiring professional assistance is optional but adds to total expenses.
• Filing online offers a small discount but does not change eligibility requirements.
• The biometrics fee is now included in the standard N-400 fee.
• Naturalization fees are subject to periodic review and may change.

There is no installment payment option under the standard process; full payment is required at the time of filing unless a waiver or reduction is approved.

Immigration rules vary by individual circumstances

The total cost of becoming a U.S. citizen can differ depending on:

• Age
• Military service history
• Income level
• Prior immigration applications
• Use of professional assistance
• Need for document translations or additional preparation

Each applicant’s naturalization cost may vary based on these factors.

Key takeaways

• The standard Form N-400 fee is $760 (paper) or $710 (online).
• Biometrics services are included in the current filing fee.
• Applicants over 75 pay a reduced application fee and no biometrics fee.
• Military applicants are exempt from the filing fee.
• Fee waivers and reduced fees are available for qualifying individuals.
• Naturalization fees are non-refundable.
• Total costs may increase if professional assistance or document translation is required.

Final thoughts

The cost to become a U.S. citizen generally centers on the Form N-400 filing fee, but the overall naturalization cost can vary depending on eligibility for fee reductions and related expenses. Reviewing current USCIS fee schedules and understanding eligibility requirements is important before filing.

Individuals seeking clarification about their eligibility or naturalization process may consult a qualified immigration law firm such as AB Legal Consult for professional guidance tailored to their circumstances.

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration fees and eligibility requirements may change and vary depending on individual circumstances.