The main cost of becoming a U.S. citizen is the government filing fee for Form N-400. Here is how the cost works and how to lower it if you qualify.
The N-400 filing fee
USCIS charges a filing fee to process Form N-400, and the amount is set by USCIS and updated periodically. Because it changes, always check the current fee on the official USCIS fee schedule at uscis.gov before you file. Some applicants also pay a biometrics services cost.
Fee waivers and reduced fees
- Fee waiver (Form I-912): if you can’t afford the fee — for example, you receive a means-tested benefit, your income is below a set level, or you have financial hardship — you may apply to have it waived entirely.
- Reduced fee: some applicants within a certain income range qualify for a lower fee.
Other possible costs
- Passport-style photos (sometimes needed)
- Optional: an immigration attorney, if your case is complex
- Studying is free — you can prepare with free practice tests and the official USCIS materials
Bottom line
Budget for the current N-400 filing fee, but don’t let cost stop you — check whether you qualify for a fee waiver or reduced fee first.
Get ready: Take the free US citizenship practice test and review the 30-day study plan.
Independent free resource, not affiliated with USCIS or the U.S. government, and not legal advice. Rules and fees change — confirm the latest at uscis.gov.
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