USCIS Naturalization Fee: A Deep Dive into Costs, Waivers, and What to Expect

Imagine this: you’ve spent years living in the U.S., worked hard to adapt to a new culture, and now you’re ready to take that monumental step toward becoming a U.S. citizen. But there’s one last hurdle — the fee for naturalization. Many don’t realize that while the application process is long and filled with paperwork, the fee itself can be a barrier. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) charges a fee for processing the Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization, and it’s not a small one. In fact, understanding this fee and the options available to either reduce or waive it can significantly impact how prepared you are for the citizenship process.

Here’s what you need to know about the current USCIS naturalization fee, how to apply for a fee waiver, and some additional costs you might not have considered.

What Is the Current USCIS Naturalization Fee?

As of 2023, the USCIS charges a fee of $725 for naturalization applications. This amount includes a $640 processing fee and a $85 biometric services fee (which covers the cost of fingerprinting, photographing, and signature collection). While the fee may seem steep, it's important to realize the true cost lies in the overall immigration process — legal fees, study materials for the naturalization test, and even potential travel for appointments.

But the good news is, if you are over a certain age or qualify under specific conditions, you may not be required to pay the biometric fee. Those who are 75 years of age or older, for example, don’t need to pay this additional $85.

And if you're thinking about bringing your family into the process, remember that the fee applies per person. For families, this can quickly become a substantial expense. But there’s hope, and we’ll cover that soon. First, let’s look into why this fee is set at $725 and what your payment options are.

Why the USCIS Fee is Set at $725: The Breakdown

You might wonder why the application fee is so high. The fee covers a variety of services, including the review of your application, processing of your fingerprints, and scheduling interviews. Let’s break it down:

Service	Cost
Application processing	$640
Biometrics (Fingerprinting)	$85
Total	$725

The fee reflects the fact that USCIS operates largely on the revenue generated by these fees, rather than on taxpayer funding. The agency uses these fees to cover the costs of everything from processing your form to maintaining the infrastructure necessary for immigration services.

Fee Waivers and Reductions: Can You Qualify for a Break?

If you’re concerned about the high costs, there’s good news: USCIS offers both fee waivers and reductions for those who qualify. The criteria for fee waivers are based primarily on your financial situation.

Who Qualifies for a Fee Waiver?

A fee waiver can completely eliminate the naturalization fee if you meet certain requirements. Generally, you may qualify if:

1. You receive a means-tested benefit, like Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
2. Your household income is at or below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines.
3. You’re experiencing financial hardship, such as unexpected medical bills or job loss.

To apply for a waiver, you’ll need to submit Form I-912, the Request for Fee Waiver, alongside your N-400 application. You’ll also need to provide proof of income or documentation showing your financial hardship. Keep in mind that applying for a waiver can extend the processing time of your application.

Partial Fee Reduction

If you don’t qualify for a full waiver but still find the fee burdensome, you can apply for a partial fee reduction. This option reduces the naturalization fee to $405, including a $320 processing fee and the $85 biometric services fee. To apply for this reduction, you’ll need to submit Form I-942, Request for Reduced Fee.

Hidden Costs: What Else Should You Budget For?

The naturalization fee is just the beginning. Let’s not forget the additional expenses that can sneak up on you during this process. Some of the less-obvious costs include:

1. Legal Fees: If you choose to hire an immigration attorney to assist with your application, fees can range from $1,500 to $3,000.

2. Travel Expenses: You may need to travel to a USCIS field office for your biometric appointment or interview. Depending on your location, this could mean airfare, gas, or hotel stays.

3. Study Materials: While many free resources exist to help you prepare for the naturalization test, some applicants prefer to purchase books or enroll in classes, which can cost anywhere from $50 to $300.

Are There Other Ways to Save Money on Naturalization Fees?

If you’re not eligible for a waiver or fee reduction, don’t worry — there are still a few ways to make the process more affordable. Some organizations offer scholarships or grants to cover all or part of the naturalization fee, particularly for veterans, seniors, or refugees. Additionally, some community-based organizations provide low-cost legal assistance and may help you navigate the fee waiver process for a fraction of the cost of hiring a private attorney.

How to Pay the USCIS Naturalization Fee

USCIS offers several payment options. You can pay the fee by:

• Credit or debit card (by submitting Form G-1450).
• Check or money order made payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
• Electronic payments if you apply online through the USCIS website.

Be sure to include the payment with your application, as USCIS will not begin processing your form until the fee is paid in full.

What Happens If You Can’t Afford the Fee?

If you can’t afford the naturalization fee and don’t qualify for a waiver, you may need to delay applying until you can save up the funds. Keep in mind that USCIS occasionally reviews its fee structure, so fees may increase in the future. Therefore, it’s wise to start planning early.

For those who qualify, fee waivers can be a lifeline, allowing you to continue your journey toward citizenship without the burden of financial stress.

Delays Due to Fee Issues: How to Avoid Them

To avoid delays, ensure that your fee payment is correct and that all necessary documentation is included with your waiver or reduction request. If USCIS rejects your payment, they’ll return your application and all accompanying documents, which will significantly delay your progress.

The Emotional Cost of Naturalization: More Than Just a Financial Investment

Beyond the dollars and cents, naturalization is a deeply personal journey. Many applicants talk about the emotional toll of preparing for the naturalization test, worrying about their interview, and stressing about whether they’ve filled out the forms correctly. Add to that the financial strain of the fee, and it’s clear that naturalization isn’t just an administrative process — it’s a commitment.

However, becoming a U.S. citizen brings incredible rewards: the right to vote, access to a wider range of government benefits, and most importantly, a sense of belonging and permanence in the country you’ve called home for so long. While the fee may seem like a significant hurdle, think of it as an investment in your future. Citizenship, with all its rights and responsibilities, is priceless.

Conclusion: The Real Cost of U.S. Citizenship

In the end, while the USCIS naturalization fee of $725 can seem daunting, there are multiple pathways to make it more affordable. By understanding the fee structure, looking into waiver and reduction options, and preparing for additional expenses, you can move forward with confidence. Becoming a U.S. citizen is a monumental achievement — one that’s worth every penny.