How Much Does It Cost to Become a U.S. Citizen?

Let's start with the core expenses—filing fees. To apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization, you need to file Form N-400 with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). As of 2024, the filing fee for this form is $640, and there's also an additional $85 biometric services fee. That brings the total to $725. But is this really all you need to pay? Not quite.

Hidden Costs of U.S. Citizenship

Many applicants underestimate the indirect costs. These can include:

• Legal fees: If your case is complex, you might need an immigration attorney to guide you through the process. Legal fees can range anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the lawyer and the complexity of your case.
• Language classes: If English is not your first language, you may need to invest in ESL (English as a Second Language) classes to ensure you pass the English portion of the citizenship test. These classes can range from $200 to $500 or more.
• Civics test preparation: Many applicants take citizenship preparation courses to pass the U.S. civics test. These courses can cost around $100 to $300.

When you combine all these expenses, the total cost of becoming a U.S. citizen can easily exceed $1,500 to $7,500. For many, this is a significant financial burden, but it doesn’t stop there.

The Time Investment

Time is another cost that’s often overlooked. The citizenship process can take 12 to 18 months or more, depending on processing times and any delays in your case. During this time, you may need to take time off work to attend interviews, exams, and appointments with USCIS.

Consider also the preparation time for the tests. Learning about U.S. history and government might take weeks or even months, depending on your familiarity with the material.

Opportunity Costs

While waiting for your citizenship, there are opportunity costs—delays in career advancement or other personal opportunities. For instance, non-citizens cannot vote, and some government jobs or private sector positions are available only to U.S. citizens. The inability to apply for these positions until your citizenship is finalized might cost you opportunities and income.

But Is It Worth It?

Despite these costs, the benefits of becoming a U.S. citizen are substantial. From having the right to vote, access to federal jobs, and being able to sponsor family members for immigration, the rewards far outweigh the initial financial outlay.

• Voting Rights: As a citizen, you gain the right to vote in federal, state, and local elections, giving you a say in the direction of the country.
• Family Sponsorship: U.S. citizens can petition for family members to immigrate to the U.S. faster and with more priority than green card holders.
• Government Benefits: U.S. citizens are eligible for a broader range of federal benefits, including Social Security and Medicare.

The Emotional Toll

Beyond the financial and time costs, there is an emotional toll. The uncertainty of the process, the stress of preparing for interviews, and the anxiety over passing the tests can weigh heavily on applicants. For some, the fear of rejection or the worry of missing deadlines adds to the overall burden.

However, the joy of becoming a U.S. citizen, after all the waiting and preparation, is often described as overwhelming. The swearing-in ceremony is a pivotal moment in many people's lives, representing not just the end of a long journey but the beginning of a new chapter filled with rights, responsibilities, and new opportunities.

Future Changes to Costs

As of now, the fees for applying for U.S. citizenship are likely to increase. Immigration fees have historically risen every few years. For example, in 1989, the naturalization application fee was just $60. Today, it’s over 12 times higher. In the future, we might see even higher costs for this process, making it even more important for eligible applicants to start sooner rather than later.

Additionally, proposed changes to U.S. immigration laws could affect the overall process. Some legislation might reduce the costs, while others could raise them depending on the political climate. Staying informed about such changes is key for anyone considering applying for U.S. citizenship.

What You Can Do to Save Money

If you’re worried about the financial burden of citizenship, there are ways to manage the costs:

• Pro bono legal help: Some nonprofit organizations and legal aid clinics offer free or reduced-cost services to low-income individuals.
• Waivers: In certain cases, USCIS offers fee waivers or reductions for applicants who cannot afford the full cost. To apply for a waiver, you’ll need to demonstrate financial hardship.
• Study independently: Instead of paying for citizenship preparation courses, many free resources are available online, including practice tests and study guides for the civics and English tests.

Is It Really a Choice?

For many immigrants, the decision to become a U.S. citizen isn’t just a financial one—it’s a question of identity, security, and belonging. The cost is high, but so are the stakes. Whether it’s the right to live and work permanently in the U.S. without fear of deportation, or the ability to travel freely with a U.S. passport, the rewards of citizenship are immeasurable.

In the end, the process of becoming a U.S. citizen is more than just a legal transaction—it’s a life-changing event. The financial investment, while significant, pales in comparison to the new opportunities, rights, and privileges that come with citizenship. For most, the long-term benefits far outweigh the costs, making the price of U.S. citizenship a worthwhile expense.