Obtaining citizenship in a foreign country is a significant legal and personal milestone. Whether it’s for the purpose of better opportunities, family reunification, or a deeper connection with a new homeland, the journey to citizenship involves various steps—and more importantly, various costs. These expenses can range widely depending on the country, the method of application, legal assistance, required documentation, and processing fees. In this article, we’ll take a comprehensive look at what it costs to acquire citizenship in some of the most sought-after countries around the world.
Understanding the Different Pathways to Citizenship
Before breaking down the costs, it’s crucial to understand that citizenship can be obtained through various pathways. These include:
- Citizenship by Naturalization
- Citizenship by Birth
- Citizenship by Descent
- Citizenship by Investment
- Citizenship by Marriage
Each pathway comes with its own eligibility requirements and financial obligations. In this article, we primarily focus on naturalization and investment, the two most common options for immigrants.
United States Citizenship Costs
Naturalization Fees
For those seeking U.S. citizenship through naturalization, the key cost is the Form N-400 application fee. As of 2025, the fee is $640, plus an $85 biometric services fee, totaling $725. Fee waivers and reductions are available for low-income applicants under certain conditions.
Other Expenses
- Legal representation: $1,000–$3,000
- English and civics classes: $200–$500
- Translation services (if needed): $50–$200
- Medical examination for green card holders: $100–$500
Citizenship by Investment (EB-5 Visa)
The U.S. does not offer direct citizenship by investment, but the EB-5 visa is a route to a green card and, eventually, naturalization. The minimum investment is $800,000 in a targeted employment area or $1,050,000 elsewhere.
Canadian Citizenship Costs
Naturalization Fees
For adults, the application fee is CAD $630. For minors, it is CAD $100. The fees include processing and the right of citizenship.
Other Expenses
- Language testing (IELTS or CELPIP): $300–$350
- Legal assistance: $1,500–$3,500
- Police certificates and translation: $100–$300
Investment-Based Immigration
While Canada doesn’t offer direct citizenship by investment, it has immigration programs like the Quebec Immigrant Investor Program. This requires a net worth of CAD $2 million and an investment of CAD $1.2 million.
United Kingdom Citizenship Costs
Naturalization Fees
The cost to apply for British citizenship is £1,580. This includes the £80 citizenship ceremony fee.
Additional Costs
- Life in the UK Test: £50
- English language test: £150
- Legal fees: £1,000–£2,500
- Document translation and certification: £100–£300
Investor Visa Route
The UK has closed its Tier 1 Investor Visa program, but other routes such as the Innovator Founder route may lead to permanent residency and eventual citizenship. Start-up capital of at least £50,000 is required.
Australia Citizenship Costs
Naturalization Fees
The application fee for Australian citizenship by conferral is AUD $540 for most adults. Concession and child rates are also available.
Other Costs
- English language proof: AUD $300–$400
- Police checks and documentation: AUD $100–$200
- Immigration agent fees: AUD $2,000–$5,000
Investment-Based Pathways
Australia’s Business Innovation and Investment Program requires a minimum investment of AUD $1.5 million under the Investor stream, with significant additional costs and requirements.
European Citizenship Costs: A Country-by-Country Comparison
Germany
- Application fee: €255 for adults, €51 for minors
- Naturalization test: €25
- Language certification and document fees: €200–€500
- Legal fees (optional): €1,000–€2,000
Spain
- Application fee: Around €100
- DELE language exam: €150–€200
- Processing time: Up to 2 years
Portugal
- Application fee: €250
- Golden Visa investment: Starting at €250,000
- Legal assistance and administrative fees: €5,000–€10,000+
Caribbean Citizenship by Investment
St. Kitts and Nevis
- Minimum donation: $250,000 (Sustainable Island State Contribution)
- Real estate option: $400,000 minimum investment
- Processing fees: $7,500+ per applicant
Dominica
- Economic Diversification Fund donation: $100,000 (single applicant)
- Government fees: $1,000–$5,000
- Due diligence: $7,500
Citizenship Costs in Other Notable Countries
Turkey
- Minimum real estate investment: $400,000
- Processing and legal fees: $5,000–$10,000
Malta
- Direct citizenship program through investment: Total cost ranges from €600,000 to over €1,000,000
- Includes donation to the national fund, real estate, and government fees
Common Additional Expenses
Legal and Immigration Consultants
Hiring an immigration lawyer or consultant is not always mandatory but can be beneficial. These professionals often charge between $1,000 and $10,000 depending on the complexity of your case and your country of residence.
Document Translation and Certification
Certified translations, apostilles, and notary services often cost $50–$300 per document. Some countries require all documents to be translated into the official language.
Travel and Residency Costs
In many countries, residency is a prerequisite for naturalization. This can involve travel expenses, cost of living, housing, and income requirements, all of which can significantly affect your total financial outlay.
Is Citizenship Worth the Cost?
Citizenship offers numerous benefits including the right to vote, work, and live in the country without restrictions, as well as the possibility of acquiring a strong passport with extensive travel freedoms. However, prospective citizens should evaluate the total financial commitment carefully.
Conclusion
The cost of acquiring citizenship varies enormously depending on the method, country, and individual circumstances. From the modest application fees of naturalization to the multi-million dollar investments in economic citizenship programs, there are pathways for different financial capacities and goals. It’s essential to thoroughly research the requirements, consult professionals if necessary, and prepare for both the financial and procedural demands of citizenship. Whether you aim to call a new country home for life or want a passport that opens global doors, understanding the real costs involved is the first crucial step.
Related topics:
- How Much is the I-90 Fee? A Complete 2025 Guide
- Dubai 3 Months Visa Cost Guide | Price, Types, and Application Tips
- How Much is a Dubai Residence Visa? Comprehensive Guide 2025
