Becoming a U.S. citizen is a significant milestone in a person’s life. It not only grants you the rights and privileges of citizenship, but also opens doors to opportunities in the United States. However, before you can enjoy the benefits of U.S. citizenship, there is a process involved—and it comes with a variety of costs. This article provides a comprehensive guide on what it costs to become a U.S. citizen, including fees for applications, legal costs, and other potential expenses you should be aware of.
The U.S. Citizenship Process: An Overview
The journey to U.S. citizenship typically involves applying for naturalization, which is the legal process by which a foreign national becomes a U.S. citizen. There are several steps involved, from filling out the appropriate application forms to taking the citizenship test, and finally, attending an interview with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Before diving into the costs, it’s important to understand the basic process of becoming a U.S. citizen. Most applicants for U.S. citizenship go through the following stages:
- Eligibility check: You must meet the eligibility requirements for naturalization, including living in the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident for a specific period.
- Application: You must file Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) and submit supporting documents to USCIS.
- Biometrics appointment: This step involves submitting fingerprints and other biometric data for background checks.
- Citizenship test and interview: You must pass a civics and English language test and attend an interview with a USCIS officer.
- Oath of allegiance: If approved, you will attend a ceremony where you take the Oath of Allegiance and officially become a U.S. citizen.
Breaking Down the Costs of U.S. Citizenship
The cost of becoming a U.S. citizen can be broken down into several components. The largest cost is typically the application fee, but there may be additional expenses depending on your circumstances. Below, we explore the main costs involved in obtaining U.S. citizenship.
Application Fee for Form N-400
The primary cost associated with applying for U.S. citizenship is the application fee for Form N-400, which is the form used for naturalization. As of 2025, the cost to file Form N-400 is $725. This includes the application fee ($640) and a biometric services fee ($85) for background checks.
It’s important to note that USCIS fees are subject to change, so applicants should always verify the current cost on the USCIS website before submitting their application.
Additional Fees for Biometrics and Fingerprints
The biometric services fee is included as part of the N-400 application, but in some cases, USCIS may require additional biometrics or fingerprinting services. These fees are generally included in the initial cost unless special circumstances arise.
Legal Fees and Assistance
While it is possible to file your naturalization application on your own, many applicants choose to hire an immigration lawyer to assist with the process. Legal fees can vary widely depending on the complexity of your case and the lawyer’s experience. On average, you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000 for legal representation in a straightforward case. However, if your situation is more complicated (e.g., if you have a criminal record or immigration violations), fees could be higher.
Some applicants may qualify for free or reduced-cost legal assistance through nonprofit organizations, especially if they meet certain income requirements. It’s advisable to research available resources in your area if legal fees are a concern.
Cost of Preparing Supporting Documents
In addition to the application fee, you may need to pay for the preparation of supporting documents required for your naturalization application. These documents could include:
- Birth certificates
- Marriage certificates (if applicable)
- Proof of lawful permanent residence
- Tax records and other financial documents
While some of these documents may be free or low-cost, others may require translation services or certification, which can add to the overall cost. Expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $100 per document for translation services, depending on the language and the provider.
Cost of the Citizenship Test
The U.S. citizenship test is an essential part of the naturalization process. While the test itself does not have a direct fee, applicants are required to study for the test. Some people may choose to enroll in preparatory courses or purchase study materials, which can add to the total cost of citizenship.
Citizenship test preparation classes can range from free community programs to paid courses costing anywhere from $50 to $500. There are also online resources and study guides that can be purchased for a more affordable rate, typically around $20 to $50.
Financial Assistance and Fee Waivers
For applicants who may be unable to afford the costs of naturalization, there are options available to reduce or waive certain fees. USCIS offers fee waivers for qualifying individuals, including those with low income or other financial hardships.
To qualify for a fee waiver, applicants must demonstrate financial need by submitting a request form (Form I-912) along with their naturalization application. Not all fees are eligible for waivers, but the application fee for Form N-400 and biometric services fee can be waived for eligible individuals. You can find more information about fee waivers on the USCIS website.
Other Costs to Consider
In addition to the main costs outlined above, there are other potential expenses to consider as part of the naturalization process:
- Travel costs: If your citizenship interview or oath ceremony is in a different city, you may need to cover travel expenses.
- Replacement of lost documents: If you lose essential documents like your green card or passport, you may need to pay for replacements.
- Oath ceremony: While there is no fee for attending the oath ceremony, applicants may need to pay for transportation and other related expenses.
Conclusion
The cost of obtaining U.S. citizenship can add up quickly, but for many individuals, the investment is well worth it. Becoming a U.S. citizen provides numerous benefits, including the right to vote, access to federal jobs, and the ability to sponsor family members for immigration purposes. Additionally, U.S. citizenship offers the security of living in the country without the need for visa renewals or fear of deportation.
While the financial burden of naturalization may seem daunting, there are financial assistance options available, and many applicants are able to pay the fees over time. Ultimately, the decision to become a U.S. citizen is a personal one, but the long-term benefits often outweigh the upfront costs. With careful planning and consideration, you can navigate the citizenship process and achieve your goal of becoming a U.S. citizen.
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