If you’re ready to take the final step toward becoming an American citizen, you’re probably asking one important question: How much does U.S. citizenship actually cost?
The answer isn’t as simple as a single price tag. Between government filing fees, biometrics charges, and optional expenses like legal help, the total cost can vary significantly depending on your situation.
In this complete guide, we’ll break down every dollar you need to budget for U.S. citizenship in 2026—including recent USCIS fee updates, who qualifies for fee waivers, and how to avoid costly application mistakes.
Quick Overview: What You’ll Pay for U.S. Citizenship
| Expense Category | Cost Range | Required or Optional? |
|---|---|---|
| N-400 Filing Fee | $710 (online) – $760 (paper) | Mandatory |
| Biometrics Fee | $85 | Mandatory (ages 14-79) |
| Fee Waiver (Full) | $0 | If eligible |
| Fee Waiver (Reduced) | ~$380 | If eligible |
| Attorney Fees | $500 – $1,500+ | Optional |
| Document Translations | $20 – $50 per page | Optional |
| Study Materials | $0 – $100 | Optional |
| Green Card Renewal (I-90) | ~$540 | Only if needed |
Mandatory USCIS Fees: The Base Cost of Form N-400
Every citizenship applicant must file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. The fee you pay depends entirely on how you file.
Online Filing: $710
USCIS strongly encourages applicants to file online through their secure portal. Not only is the process faster and easier to track, but you also get a $50 discount compared to paper filing.
Paper Filing: $760
Filing a physical application by mail now costs more. This higher fee reflects the additional processing required for paper applications and incentivizes applicants to use the online system.
Important: These fees are non-refundable. Even if USCIS denies your application, you will not get your money back. That’s why accuracy matters—every missing signature, incorrect answer, or incomplete section could cost you hundreds of dollars.
The Biometrics Fee: $85 for Background Checks
In addition to your N-400 filing fee, most applicants must pay for biometrics services. This covers:
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Fingerprinting
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Photograph
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Digital signature
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FBI background check
Who pays? Anyone between the ages of 14 and 79 must pay this $85 fee. If you’re 80 or older, you’re exempt.
When do you pay? You submit this fee with your initial application. If you file online, the system combines your filing fee and biometrics fee into one total payment.
Fee Waivers: How to Pay Less (or Nothing) for Citizenship
USCIS understands that the cost of citizenship shouldn’t prevent eligible immigrants from naturalizing. If you have limited income, you may qualify for financial assistance.
Full Fee Waiver (Form I-912)
You can request a complete waiver of both the N-400 filing fee and biometrics fee if you meet any of these criteria:
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You receive a means-tested public benefit (Medicaid, SNAP/ food stamps, SSI, etc.)
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Your household income is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
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You’re experiencing financial hardship (medical emergencies, unemployment, disaster-related expenses)
Reduced Fee (Form I-942)
If your income falls between 150% and 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, you may qualify for a reduced filing fee of approximately $380. The biometrics fee may also be reduced or waived depending on your circumstances.
2026 Income Guidelines for Fee Waivers
Use this table to see if your household income qualifies for a full fee waiver:
| Household Size | 150% Poverty Guideline (Full Waiver) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $23,475 |
| 2 | $31,725 |
| 3 | $39,975 |
| 4 | $48,225 |
| 5 | $56,475 |
| 6 | $64,725 |
| 7 | $72,975 |
| 8 | $81,225 |
| 9+ | Add $8,250 per person |
Automatic Exemptions
Some applicants never pay citizenship fees, including:
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Current and former U.S. military members filing under specific immigration provisions
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Applicants age 80 and older (biometrics fee waived)
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Applicants filing based on qualifying military service
What Most Applicants Forget to Budget For
The government fees are just the beginning. Smart applicants also prepare for these common expenses:
Attorney Fees: $50– $1,500+
You’re not required to hire an immigration lawyer, but many applicants choose to—especially if they have:
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A complicated immigration history
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Past arrests or legal issues
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Difficulty understanding English
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Concerns about their application being denied
An experienced attorney can review your application, spot potential problems, and represent you if issues arise during the interview process.
Document Translations: $20 – $50 Per Page
USCIS requires English translations for any foreign-language documents. If your birth certificate, marriage certificate, or divorce decree isn’t in English, you’ll need certified translations. Some attorneys include translation services, while others charge separately.
Citizenship Test Study Materials: $0 – $100
USCIS provides free study materials online, including the 100 civics questions and English practice tests. However, many applicants prefer:
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Flashcards ($15–$25)
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Study guides ($10–$30)
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Mobile apps ($5–$20)
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Citizenship preparation classes (often free through libraries or community organizations)
Green Card Renewal: ~$540
If your permanent resident card (green card) has expired or will expire within six months, you must renew it before applying for citizenship. This requires filing Form I-90 with a separate fee (approximately $540). Factor this into your budget if your green card is close to expiring.
How to Pay USCIS Fees
Using the correct payment method is essential. If your payment fails, USCIS will reject your entire application—delaying your path to citizenship by weeks or months.
Paying Online
When you file Form N-400 through the USCIS online portal, you’ll pay securely through pay.gov using:
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Credit card
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Debit card
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Bank account (ACH transfer)
Paying by Mail
If you file a paper application, USCIS no longer accepts personal checks or money orders for most forms. Instead, you must include:
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Form G-1450 (Authorization for Credit Card Transactions) if paying by credit/debit card
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Form G-1650 (Authorization for ACH Transactions) if paying directly from a U.S. bank account
Double-check these forms carefully—errors here can result in your entire application package being returned.
Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-600): A Different Path
Not everyone becomes a citizen through naturalization. Some people acquire or derive citizenship automatically through their U.S. citizen parents. These individuals need a Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-600) as proof.
The costs are different—and higher—than naturalization:
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Online filing: $1,335
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Paper filing: $1,385
If you believe you’re already a U.S. citizen but lack documentation, consult an immigration attorney to determine whether Form N-600 is right for you.
Total Cost Scenarios: What You’ll Actually Pay
Let’s look at real-world examples to see how these costs add up.
Scenario 1: The Standard Applicant
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Files online ($710)
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Pays biometrics fee ($85)
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Uses free study materials
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Total: $795
Scenario 2: The Prepared Applicant (with Attorney)
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Files online ($710)
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Pays biometrics fee ($85)
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Hires immigration attorney ($1,200)
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Buys study guide ($25)
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Total: $2,020
Scenario 3: The Fee Waiver Applicant
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Qualifies for full fee waiver
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Pays $0 filing fee
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Pays $0 biometrics fee
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Total: $0
Scenario 4: The Applicant Needing Green Card Renewal
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Renews expired green card (I-90) ($540)
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Files N-400 online ($710)
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Pays biometrics fee ($85)
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Total: $1,335
Final Checklist: Budgeting for U.S. Citizenship
Before you submit your N-400 application, run through this checklist to ensure you’re financially prepared:
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I’ve confirmed the current filing fee on the official USCIS website
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I know whether I qualify for a fee waiver or reduced fee
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I’ve budgeted for biometrics (if applicable)
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I’ve gathered funds for optional expenses (attorney, translations, study materials)
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My green card is valid and unexpired
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I have a valid credit/debit card or U.S. bank account for payment
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I’ve reviewed my application for errors that could cause denial
Frequently Asked Questions About Citizenship Costs
Q: Is the N-400 fee refundable if my application is denied?
A: No. USCIS fees are non-refundable, even if your application is rejected. This is why accuracy matters.
Q: Can I get my biometrics fee back if my appointment is canceled?
A: No. The biometrics fee covers the cost of processing your background check, regardless of whether you ultimately attend an appointment.
Q: Do I have to pay the fee again if I need to reapply?
A: Yes. If your application is denied and you want to reapply, you must submit a new application with full fees.
Q: Are there payment plans for citizenship fees?
A: No. USCIS requires full payment at the time of filing.
Q: Does USCIS accept cash?
A: No. Payments must be made electronically or through authorized forms.
Important Reminder: Fees Can Change
USCIS periodically adjusts its fees. The information in this guide reflects 2026 rates, but always verify current fees on the official USCIS website before submitting your application.
Your Path to Citizenship Starts Here
Becoming a U.S. citizen is one of the most significant investments you’ll ever make—financially, emotionally, and personally. By understanding the complete cost breakdown, you can budget wisely, avoid surprises, and approach your application with confidence.
Ready to begin? Contact us today. Your journey to American citizenship is closer than you think.
