How Much Does It Cost for an Immigrant to Become a US Citizen?

If you’ve ever dreamed of becoming a US citizen, you might be wondering about the financial costs involved in this significant journey. Becoming a US citizen is more than just a personal milestone; it’s also a financial commitment that requires careful planning and budgeting. In this article, we will explore the various costs associated with US citizenship, including application fees, legal costs, and other related expenses.

Initial Application Fees

The first and most prominent cost is the fee for filing Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization. As of 2024, the fee for this form is $725. This amount includes a $640 processing fee and a $85 biometric services fee. The biometric fee covers the cost of fingerprinting and background checks. It’s essential to check the latest fee structure on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website, as fees can change.

Legal and Professional Assistance

Navigating the citizenship process can be complex, and many applicants opt to seek legal assistance to ensure their applications are correctly completed and submitted. 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 services. This cost includes consultations, preparation of documents, and representation if needed.

Additional Costs

Beyond the primary application and legal fees, there are other potential costs to consider:

• Translation Services: If any of your documents are not in English, you will need to have them translated. The cost for translation services can vary, but budgeting around $50 to $100 per document is a reasonable estimate.

• Travel Expenses: If you are required to attend an interview or take the Oath of Allegiance in a different city, you may need to cover travel costs. Depending on your location and the distance you need to travel, these expenses can range from $100 to $500.

• Test Preparation: Preparing for the citizenship test is another potential cost. You might choose to purchase study materials or take preparatory classes. Costs for these resources can vary, with prices ranging from $50 to $200.

Financial Assistance and Fee Waivers

For those who find the costs prohibitive, there are options for financial assistance. USCIS provides fee waivers and reductions for certain applicants based on their income and circumstances. To qualify for a fee waiver, you must demonstrate that your income is below a certain threshold or that you are experiencing financial hardship. The fee waiver process requires submitting Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, along with your N-400 application.

Summary of Costs

To give you a clear picture, here’s a breakdown of the typical costs associated with becoming a US citizen:

• Form N-400 Filing Fee: $725
• Legal Fees: $1,000 to $3,000
• Translation Services: $50 to $100 per document
• Travel Expenses: $100 to $500
• Test Preparation: $50 to $200

Conclusion

Becoming a US citizen involves several financial considerations, from the initial application fee to additional expenses for legal assistance and document preparation. By understanding these costs and planning accordingly, you can better manage your budget and ensure a smoother path to achieving your citizenship goal.