One of the stumbling blocks many immigrants face when applying to become a United States citizen is understanding citizenship fees. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires immigrants and sponsors to pay these fees to process applications. But how much is the citizenship application fee, and what other fees should you expect?
How much does it cost to become a U.S. citizen and is it worth it? Beyond the financial considerations of becoming a citizen, the intangible financial benefits are significant. And the peace of mind that comes with citizenship is also particularly valuable. After all, knowing you have a permanent, secure home in the U.S. and that you can pass this on to your children is invaluable.
Once you’re a citizen, you’ll never pay an immigration fee again. But until that day arrives, you’ll have to face fees, including the N-400 filing fee. Here are some common scenarios you’ll find and what the current rates are for 2024.
Filing Fee for Form N-400
Form N-400 is the application for naturalization, the final step to go from a green card holder to a naturalized citizen. The current fee in 2024 is $760 to file. Until recently, there was also an associated biometrics feel. However, starting April 1, 2024,the separate biometrics fee will be eliminated for most applications – it will simply be incorporated into the main application fee.
How Can I Reduce the Fee for Form N-400?
There are two ways you can reduce the cost to become a U.S. citizen. The first is to file Form I-942, Request for Reduced Fee. If your income is less than 150% of Federal Poverty Guidelines you can qualify for a complete waiver of the fee by filing Form I-912.
If you have served in the military, you may be able to get the fee for the form waived entirely. You may need to file Form N-426 to get the certification of your military or naval service. This is free.
Could I Just Stay a Permanent Resident?
There are only two options if you want to live and work in the U.S. permanently: citizenship and permanent residency. Permanent residents have to pay $455 every ten years to renew their green cards. Over the course of a lifetime, that’s nearly $3,000 and potentially much more. Immigration fees will likely keep increasing.
Save Money for Your Children by Becoming a U.S. Citizen
The good news is if you become a U.S. citizen through naturalization, your minor children automatically become citizens too. That not only gives you and the full protection under the law but also saves them hundreds or even thousands in costs to become a U.S. citizen.
Citizenship gives you more opportunities for quality education and provides access to much more affordable tuition rates. More education leads to more job opportunities, which means making more money for you and your family.
Conclusion: Is the Cost of U.S. Citizenship Worth It?
So is the price for a U.S. citizenship application worth it? U.S. citizens typically earn higher wages than permanent residents, have access to more job opportunities (including federal employment), and can qualify for additional government benefits and educational scholarships. They also have greater flexibility in traveling abroad and sponsoring family members for immigration.
Despite the fact that the financial cost of U.S. citizenship can be substantial when you take these benefits into account, you may find that the citizenship application cost is well worth it. Even though the N-400 naturalization application fee alone is $760 in 2024 and you can expect other costs, this initial investment often pays for itself through increased economic opportunities.
