The Cost of Becoming a U.S. Citizen

For many, the dream of becoming a U.S. citizen involves not just a new beginning but also a financial investment. Understanding the costs associated with U.S. citizenship can be complex, as it includes several components and potential additional fees. This guide will break down the expenses and provide a comprehensive overview of what you need to budget for when pursuing American citizenship.

Becoming a U.S. citizen typically involves first obtaining lawful permanent residency (a green card) and then going through the naturalization process. Each stage has its own costs and requirements, which we’ll explore in detail.

Initial Green Card Costs

Before you can apply for citizenship, you need to be a permanent resident. The process of obtaining a green card includes several fees:

1. Application Fee: The application for a green card (Form I-485) has a fee of $1,225. This includes a $1,140 fee for the application itself and an additional $85 for biometric services.

2. Legal Fees: Many applicants choose to hire an immigration attorney to help with their green card application. Legal fees can range from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of your case and the attorney's experience.

3. Medical Examination: A medical exam by an authorized physician is required for the green card application. The cost can range from $100 to $500, depending on the provider and location.

Naturalization Costs

Once you have your green card, you can apply for U.S. citizenship. The costs associated with this process are:

1. Application Fee: The fee for the naturalization application (Form N-400) is $725. This includes a $640 fee for the application and an $85 fee for biometric services.

2. Legal Fees: Similar to the green card process, you may choose to hire an attorney for your naturalization application. Legal fees can range from $1,000 to $3,000.

3. Citizenship Test Preparation: Some applicants invest in citizenship test preparation courses or materials, which can cost between $50 and $200.

Additional Costs

1. Translation Fees: If any documents need to be translated into English, you may incur additional costs. Translation services can cost from $20 to $100 per document.

2. Travel Expenses: If you need to travel for interviews or other requirements, travel expenses should be considered. Costs will vary depending on your location and travel needs.

Total Estimated Costs

Here’s a rough estimate of the total costs involved in becoming a U.S. citizen:

Expense Type	Green Card Costs	Naturalization Costs	Total Estimated Cost
Application Fees	$1,225	$725	$1,950
Legal Fees	$1,000 - $5,000	$1,000 - $3,000	$2,000 - $8,000
Medical Examination	$100 - $500	N/A	$100 - $500
Citizenship Test Prep	N/A	$50 - $200	$50 - $200
Translation Fees	Varies	Varies	Varies
Travel Expenses	Varies	Varies	Varies

Conclusion

Becoming a U.S. citizen is not only a significant personal achievement but also an investment. The costs can add up, so it's important to plan and budget accordingly. While the financial aspect might seem daunting, many view it as a worthwhile investment for the opportunity to become a full-fledged American citizen.

Whether you’re just starting the process or are already navigating the journey, understanding these costs can help you manage your expectations and financial planning effectively.