Breaking Down the Costs- How Much Does It Really Cost to Apply for U.S. Citizenship-
How much does it cost to apply for US citizenship? This is a common question among individuals seeking to become permanent residents of the United States. The cost of applying for citizenship can vary depending on several factors, including the applicant’s age, marital status, and whether they are applying as an individual or as a family unit. Understanding the various fees associated with the process is crucial for potential applicants to plan their finances accordingly.
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) administers the naturalization process and charges specific fees for each step. The primary fee for naturalization is the Form N-400 Application for Naturalization, which currently costs $725. This fee applies to applicants aged 18 and older. However, applicants aged 77 and older are eligible for a reduced fee of $640.
In addition to the Form N-400 fee, applicants may be required to pay other expenses throughout the process. These include:
1. Biometric services fee: This fee covers the cost of fingerprinting and background checks. For most applicants, the biometric services fee is $85. However, applicants aged 75 and older are exempt from this fee.
2. USCIS filing fee for dependents: If an applicant is married or has children under the age of 21, they may need to file separate applications for their dependents. The filing fee for dependents is $640 per person.
3. USCIS expedited processing fee: Applicants who require expedited processing due to urgent circumstances may request it for an additional fee of $1,225. This fee is non-refundable and does not guarantee that the application will be processed faster.
4. USCIS premium processing fee: This fee allows applicants to request expedited processing of their Form N-400 for an additional $1,225. The premium processing fee is refundable if USCIS does not process the application within 15 calendar days from the date of payment.
It is important to note that these fees are subject to change, and applicants should verify the current fees on the USCIS website before submitting their applications. Additionally, applicants may be eligible for fee waivers under certain circumstances, such as financial hardship or being a victim of certain crimes.
In conclusion, the cost of applying for US citizenship can range from $640 to $1,900, depending on the applicant’s situation. It is essential for individuals to research and plan their finances accordingly to ensure a smooth and successful application process.
