A Comprehensive Guide to the U.S. Citizenship Application Fees

Understanding the Costs Involved in the U.S. Citizenship Process

When preparing to apply for U.S. citizenship, one important aspect to consider is the application fees. Understanding these costs can help you budget effectively and prepare for this significant milestone in your life.

Breakdown of Citizenship Application Fees

The primary fee for submitting Form N-400, the application for naturalization, is currently $725. This amount includes a processing fee and a biometric services fee. Here’s a detailed look at what each component covers:

Form N-400 Processing Fee: The processing fee for the citizenship application itself is $640. This fee covers the cost of examining your application and supporting documents.
Biometric Services Fee: There is an additional fee of $85 for biometrics, which includes fingerprinting and other identity verification processes.

Fee Waivers and Reductions

Some applicants may qualify for a fee waiver or reduction based on their financial circumstances. Here are some situations where fees might be waived:

If your household income is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
If you can provide evidence of receiving a means-tested benefit, such as Medicaid or food stamps.

Payment Methods and Where to Submit Fees

When submitting your application, the fees can be paid via:

Credit card (Form G-1450)
Check or money order made out to "U.S. Department of Homeland Security"
Electronic payment if you file online through the USCIS website.

Make sure to check the USCIS official website for the latest fee updates and submission guidelines.

Conclusion

Understanding the associated costs of the citizenship application is crucial for applicants. By preparing for these expenses ahead of time, you can ensure a smoother application process. Keep in mind that fees are subject to change, so it's essential to stay informed about the latest information from official sources.