Cost of American Citizenship

Those seeking to become citizens should be aware of the cost of American citizenship. In this guide, we’ll explain how much it costs and how to prepare.

The New Jersey immigration attorneys at Curbelo Law understand that the cost of immigration processing can be a concern for many. 

Therefore, we have assisted numerous applicants throughout this process, clarifying fees and requirements. If you need guidance, our team is here to help.

Cost of American citizenship in 2025

The cost to apply for American citizenship is $760 if you file Form N-400 on paper or $710 if you file it online.

USCIS also offers a reduced fee of $380 for those who demonstrate certain household income.

Additionally, applicants who qualify for military service do not have to pay any fees. However, if you cannot afford the cost of becoming a US citizen, you can request a fee reduction or waiver.

How to apply for a fee waiver for American citizenship?

If you face financial difficulties in paying the fee for processing American citizenship, you can:

• Request a reduction in the filing fee by filing Form I-942 along with your N-400. If USCIS approves your request, the fee is reduced to $380.
• Apply for a full waiver by filing Form I-912. If approved, you won’t have to pay any fees to apply for citizenship.

It is important to avoid making mistakes when completing the N-400 naturalization application, as it can delay the process, cause rejections, or even affect your eligibility to obtain US citizenship.

Who can apply for a fee waiver for American citizenship?

You can apply for a fee waiver if you meet at least one of the following criteria:

• You, your spouse, or the head of household receives public benefits, such as Medicaid, SNAP (food stamps), SSI, or TANF.
• You are experiencing a difficult financial situation, such as a medical emergency, unemployment, or unexpected debt.
• Your household income is at or below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines at the time you apply.

How can I request a fee exemption?

To apply for a fee waiver for American citizenship, you must:

1. Complete and submit Form I-912 along with Form N-400.
2. Include a letter explaining why you cannot pay the fees.
3. Attach all required documentation, such as proof of household income and evidence of public benefits, as directed in the form instructions.

Who can apply for a reduced rate?

You may apply for a reduced rate if your household’s annual income is above 150% but below 400% of the federal poverty guidelines at the time you apply.

How can I request a reduced rate?

To apply for a reduced fee, you must submit Form I-942 along with your citizenship application.

We recommend that you carefully read the form instructions, include all required documents, and sign the form before submitting.

How can I pay for the process for US citizenship?

The fee must be paid at the same time you file Form N-400. You can do so online or by mail, depending on how you submit your application.

Online payment

If you submit the form through the USCIS portal, the system will guide you through the payment process. You can use:

• Credit card,
• Debit, 
• Prepaid, or 
• Withdrawals from a bank account. 

The system will redirect you to the official website to complete the payment.

Payment by mail

If you submit the form on paper, you can include:

• A personal or cashier’s check,
• A money order, or
• Form G-1450 to authorize payment by credit card.

Checks must be made payable to the US Department of Homeland Security. Cash should not be sent.

Tips when making payment

• Make sure you pay the correct fee, as USCIS will reject your application if the amount is incorrect.
• Use only one payment method per application.
• Please verify that the card used has sufficient funds, as if the payment is rejected, the request will also be rejected.

The fee is nonrefundable, even if your citizenship application is rejected. Therefore, once submitted, you cannot get your money back.

How many years does it take to become a US citizen?

Generally, you must have been a lawful permanent resident for at least 5 years to apply for US citizenship. 

However, if you are married to a US citizen you can apply after 3 years as a resident. 

There are also different requirements for those who obtain citizenship through military service.

Are there any additional costs to becoming an American citizen?

In addition to the $760 official fee paid to USCIS, additional expenses commonly arise during the citizenship application preparation process. These include:

• Professional assistance in completing forms.
• Translation of documents.
• Classes to prepare for the English and civics exam.
• Shipping costs, photographs, or transportation to attend appointments.

These costs can vary depending on each case. That’s why, at Curbelo Law, we help you understand which expenses are truly necessary and how to efficiently prepare for your citizenship application.

Is it difficult to obtain US citizenship?

The most difficult thing is usually to obtain the Green Card, since there are few paths and not all are available to all immigrants.

Once you have a Green Card, obtaining citizenship is a straightforward process: 

• Live in the US for the required amount of time, 
• Have a good track record, 
• Pay the corresponding fee, 
• Pass the citizenship test, and 
• Attend the ceremony.

Therefore, it is not complicated but it requires time, compliance and preparation.

Contact Curbelo Law for advice on the cost of American citizenship.

At Curbelo Law, we understand the complexities of the US immigration system and are here to guide you every step of the way. 

Now you know how much it costs to become a US citizen, and our team can help you prepare your application and assess your eligibility.

If you don’t yet have a Green Card but would like to become a citizen in the future, we can explain the available options and find the path that best suits your situation. 

Contact us today for legal advice tailored to your needs.