Are U.S. Citizenship Application Fees Going Up? What You Need to Know

Jun 25
2 min read

The cost of applying for American citizenship could soon nearly double. Under a new administration proposal, U.S. citizenship application fees are set to increase by as much as 80%, and discounts for low-income applicants will be completely eliminated.

If you are planning to become a U.S. citizen, the time to submit your naturalization application is now. Here is everything you need to know about the proposed fee hike and why you shouldn't wait to file.

How Much Are U.S. Citizenship Fees Increasing?

The proposal outlines massive cost increases for those seeking to become U.S. citizens:

In-Person Filing: Increasing from 760 to 1,330 (a 75% hike).
Online Filing: Increasing from 710 to 1,280 (an 80% hike).
Appealing a Denial: The cost to request a rehearing on a denied naturalization application will jump from 830
to 1,475 (a 78% increase).
Fee Waivers Eliminated: Currently, applicants with incomes 400% below the federal poverty level pay a reduced fee of $380. This proposal would completely do away with that discount.

Why Are Naturalization Fees Going Up?

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that naturalization fees should no longer be subsidized. The administration argues that because becoming a U.S. citizen is a "unique benefit," the people applying should bear the full cost of the service themselves, rather than having those costs defrayed by other immigration benefit categories.

Why You Should Apply for Your U.S. Citizenship NOW

With the public comment period for this proposal ending on August 24, these changes could take effect soon. Waiting to apply means you could be forced to pay thousands of dollars just to submit your paperwork.

Do you have past criminal issues?

It is especially critical that you act now. If your naturalization case is complex due to a past criminal record or immigration court proceedings, the risk of a denial is higher, and under the new rules, the fee to appeal a denied application will skyrocket to $1,475.

Our office provides legal representation for the naturalization process, even in clients having criminal backgrounds. We will meticulously prepare your application to help you avoid costly mistakes, rehearings, and delays.

Don't let these price hikes shut the door on your American Dream.

Take the final step to secure your rights. Contact our office today for a consultation and let us help you start your naturalization journey before the fees double!

Contact us if you have any inquiries!