Honestly, the short answer is yes. It costs money. But how much you actually shell out depends on a ton of factors like your income, how you file, and whether you’ve served in the military. Some people pay nearly a thousand dollars, while others pay literally zero.
Applying for naturalization is a huge deal. It’s the final step in a long journey. But Uncle Sam doesn’t process those papers for free—well, usually. As of 2026, the fee structure is a bit more nuanced than it used to be. You've got different prices for clicking buttons online versus licking stamps for a paper application.
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Breaking down the USCIS filing fees
The primary cost you’re looking at is for Form N-400. That’s the official Application for Naturalization. If you’re tech-savvy and file your application online through the USCIS website, the fee is $710.
Prefer paper? It’ll cost you. Filing by mail on actual paper is more expensive at $760.
Why the $50 difference? Basically, the government wants to encourage everyone to go digital because it’s easier for them to process. It’s a bit like a "convenience fee" in reverse. One thing that changed recently is the biometrics fee. You used to have to pay a separate $85 for your fingerprints and photo. Now, that cost is "bundled" into the main price. No more math on that front.
Who gets to pay less (or nothing)?
The good news is that the U.S. government recognizes that $710 is a lot of money for many families. There are a few ways to get a break.
- The 50% Discount: If your household income is between 150% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, you might qualify for a reduced fee. Instead of the full amount, you’d pay $380. To get this, you generally have to file on paper and fill out the specific "reduced fee" section on the N-400.
- Total Fee Waivers: If your income is at or below 150% of the poverty guidelines, or if you’re receiving a means-tested benefit (like SNAP or Medicaid), you can ask for a full waiver. This makes the application $0. You’ll need to submit Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, along with your paper application.
- Military Service: If you are an active-duty service member or a veteran with qualifying service, naturalization is free. It’s a way of saying thanks for your service.
The hidden costs nobody talks about
Don't just look at the filing fee and think you're done. There are "soft costs" that creep up on you.
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First, there’s the passport. Once you become a citizen, you’ll probably want that blue book. As of now, a first-time U.S. passport for an adult is **$165** ($130 for the application and $35 for the execution fee).
Then there’s the stuff you might need to get the application ready. Do you have documents in another language? You'll need certified translations. Those can run $20 to $50 per page. Need a lawyer? This is the big one. While many people file on their own, hiring an immigration attorney for a "simple" naturalization can cost anywhere from **$500 to $2,500** depending on where you live and how complex your history is.
If you have a "complicated" case—maybe some old arrests or long trips outside the U.S.—that legal fee is often worth every penny to avoid a rejection.
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Does it cost money to become a US citizen? Comparison of total costs
| Expense Item | Standard (Online) | Standard (Paper) | Low Income (Reduced) | Military |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| N-400 Filing Fee | $710 | $760 | $380 | $0 |
| Biometrics | Included | Included | Included | $0 |
| First Passport | $165 | $165 | $165 | $165 |
| Estimated Total | **$875** | $925 | $545 | $165 |
Note: These totals don't include legal fees or travel to your interview.
Tips to keep your wallet happy
If you're trying to save a buck, the easiest move is filing online. It saves you $50 immediately. Plus, it’s harder to make mistakes online because the system won't let you leave certain fields blank.
Check your eligibility for the fee waiver before you pay. Honestly, many people don't realize they qualify for the $380 reduced fee. If you're a family of four making $120,000 or less, you might be eligible depending on the current poverty guidelines.
Also, look for local nonprofits. Organizations like the New Americans Campaign or local "Citizenship Works" clinics often provide free legal help or prep classes. You don't always need a high-priced private attorney to get through the process.
Final Reality Check
Becoming a citizen is an investment. While the $710 or $760 fee feels steep, compare it to the cost of renewing a Green Card every ten years (currently $415 online or $465 on paper). Over a lifetime, citizenship actually pays for itself. No more renewal fees, no more worrying about travel restrictions, and the ability to vote.
Before you file, double-check the current USCIS G-1055 fee schedule. The government started adjusting some fees for inflation annually starting in 2026, so the numbers can shift slightly on January 1st of each year.
Actionable Next Steps
- Check the Poverty Guidelines: Visit the USCIS website to see if your household income qualifies for the $380 reduced fee or the $0 fee waiver.
- Gather your tax returns: You'll need these to prove your income if you're asking for a discount.
- Create a USCIS Online Account: Even if you don't file today, setting up the account lets you see the digital form and start saving your progress.
- Budget for the Passport: Remember to set aside that extra $165 so you can celebrate your ceremony by immediately applying for your travel documents.