Learn About U.S. Citizenship Application Costs

Understanding U.S. Citizenship Application Fees

The process of becoming a U.S. citizen involves filing paperwork with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Like many government services, this process includes costs that applicants must pay. As of 2024, the filing fee for a naturalization petition (Form N-400) is $640, and the biometric services fee is $85, for a total of $725. These fees can change periodically, so checking the official USCIS website before submitting any documents is important.

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The filing fee covers the cost of processing your petition, reviewing documents, conducting background checks, and storing records. The biometric fee covers fingerprinting and related security procedures. Both fees are non-refundable, even if your petition is denied. This means you should carefully review all requirements and gather all necessary documents before paying and submitting your petition.

Different situations may affect the total cost you need to pay. For example, if you are filing Form N-400 and also need to file Form I-131 (for a travel document) or Form I-765 (for work authorization), those forms have separate fees. However, many people filing for naturalization do not need these additional forms, so their cost remains $725.

Payment methods accepted by USCIS include checks, money orders, and credit or debit cards. If paying by check or money order, the payment must be made out to "U.S. Department of Homeland Security." Payments must be submitted with your application package. If you are mailing your petition, include the payment in the same envelope.

Practical Takeaway: Before beginning the naturalization process, confirm the current filing and biometric fees on the official USCIS website. Budget $725 as your baseline cost, and research whether any additional forms and fees may apply to your situation. Keep documentation of your payment as proof of submission.

Fee Reductions and Waivers for Those With Limited Income

USCIS recognizes that not everyone can afford the standard $725 naturalization fee. The agency offers fee reductions for individuals and families whose household income is at or below 400 percent of the federal poverty line. As of 2024, the federal poverty line for a single person is $15,060 per year. This means individuals earning up to approximately $60,240 per year may qualify for a reduced fee.

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If your household income meets the reduction threshold, you may pay $380 instead of $640 for the Form N-400 filing fee. The biometric fee of $85 still applies, bringing your total to $465. To request a fee reduction, you must complete Form I-912, Application for Fee Waiver or Reduction. This form requires you to list your household income, number of dependents, and monthly expenses such as rent, utilities, food, and childcare.

In some cases, USCIS may grant a complete fee waiver, meaning you would pay nothing. A fee waiver may be granted if your household income is below 200 percent of the federal poverty line. For a single person, this would be approximately $30,120 per year. Fee waivers are granted case-by-case, and you must demonstrate genuine financial hardship. You cannot simply request a waiver; you must submit Form I-912 with supporting documents like pay stubs, tax returns, or letters from social services agencies confirming your low-income status.

The process of requesting a reduction or waiver does add time to your case processing. USCIS will review your financial information before making a decision. You should submit Form I-912 together with your N-400 petition. Do not send payment if you are requesting a waiver; instead, write "Fee Waiver Requested" on the line where the check amount would go. If your waiver is denied, USCIS will send you a notice telling you the amount you must pay to proceed with your case.

Practical Takeaway: If your household income is under 400 percent of the federal poverty line, calculate your exact household size and monthly income. Gather recent pay stubs, tax returns, and evidence of expenses. Complete Form I-912 and submit it with your N-400 petition to request either a reduced fee or a complete waiver based on your financial situation.

Additional Costs Beyond the Filing Fee

The $725 standard fee (or reduced fee) covers USCIS processing, but other costs may arise during the naturalization journey. One of the most common additional expenses is obtaining official documents. You may need to request certified copies of your birth certificate, passport, marriage certificate, or divorce decree. These documents typically cost between $10 and $50 each per copy, depending on which state or country issued them and how many certified copies you order.

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Medical examinations are required for some applicants. Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record, must be completed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon. The cost of this examination is not set by USCIS and varies by location and provider. Typically, the exam costs between $200 and $500. Some community health centers offer this service at reduced rates based on income. If you are required to have the medical exam, USCIS will notify you during the petition process and provide you with information about finding a designated civil surgeon in your area.

Translation services may be necessary if any of your documents are in a language other than English. USCIS requires that all documents be translated into English by a professional translator. Professional translation services typically charge $15 to $50 per page, though costs vary by location and language pair. If you have multiple documents requiring translation, these costs can add up quickly. Some community organizations offer lower-cost or free translation services; it is worth researching options in your area.

Interview preparation and legal consultation represent another potential cost category. While you can prepare for your naturalization interview on your own using free USCIS resources, some people choose to work with an immigration attorney or accredited representative. Legal fees vary widely but may range from $500 to $2,500 or more depending on the complexity of your case and the attorney's location and experience. Accredited representatives (non-lawyers authorized to provide immigration services) may charge less. However, many people successfully navigate the process without paid legal help by carefully following USCIS instructions and using free government resources.

Practical Takeaway: Create a detailed budget that includes the base filing fee plus estimated costs for vital documents, medical examination (if required), translations, and any professional guidance you decide to pursue. Request estimates from civil surgeons and translators in your area. Look into free or reduced-cost services offered by community organizations, nonprofits, and legal aid societies in your region.

How Payment Methods Work and What to Expect

USCIS accepts multiple payment methods for the naturalization filing fee, and choosing the right one depends on your situation and preferences. The most common payment method is by check or money order mailed with your petition. If you choose this option, write "U.S. Department of Homeland Security" on the check or money order, include your name and A-Number (if you have one) on the payment, and place it in the same envelope as your signed N-400 petition and supporting documents.

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You can also pay by credit card or debit card through the USCIS online filing system if you are filing electronically, or by phone through the USCIS billing department. The phone number for USCIS payment inquiries is listed on the agency's official website. When paying by card, have your card information ready and your application information available. The transaction will be processed immediately, and you will receive a confirmation number. Keep this confirmation number with your case records.

If you are paying by check or money order, allow 1-2 weeks for the payment to clear after USCIS receives your package. Your case will not be officially accepted until payment is received and verified. If you pay by credit or debit card, the transaction is generally processed within 24 hours. Do not send cash through the mail, as USCIS does not accept cash payments and your envelope may be lost.

When you submit your petition and payment, you should receive a receipt from USCIS. This receipt, called a Notice of Receipt or Form I-797, confirms that your petition was received and your fee was accepted. This document is important; keep it safely. It includes your case number, which you will use to track your application status. If you do not receive a receipt within 2-3 weeks of mailing your petition