How Much Does It Cost to Become a U.S. Citizen in 2025?

Understanding the Cost of U.S. Citizenship in 2025

Becoming a U.S. citizen is an important milestone for many immigrants. Along with the legal protections and rights it offers, U.S. citizenship comes with many valuable benefits that can improve your life and your family’s future. But before you apply, it’s important to understand the costs involved.

So, how much does it cost to become a U.S. citizen in 2025? The total USCIS fee for naturalization is $760, which covers the processing of Form N-400 and now includes the biometric services. However, some applicants may qualify for a USCIS reduced fee or a full fee waiver, depending on their income or personal situation.

This guide breaks down all the costs you might face, who needs to pay them, and how you may be able to save money when applying for U.S. citizenship in 2025. Whether you’re just starting your journey or preparing to file, this step-by-step overview will help you plan ahead with confidence. Before you apply, make sure you qualify—check your citizenship eligibility now.

Total Cost to Apply for U.S. Citizenship in 2025

Starting April 2024, USCIS updated its fee for forms, and the biometric services fee is now included in the main application cost for naturalization. As of 2025, the total cost to apply for U.S. citizenship is:

This fee is paid directly to USCIS when you submit your naturalization application. Are you eligible for a reduced fee or fee waiver?

Note: If you apply for a reduced fee or fee waiver, you must submit your application by mail—online filing is not allowed. Also, USCIS does not offer refunds, even if your application is denied.

If you are applying based on qualifying military service, you may be eligible for a naturalization fee exemption. Learn more about citizenship through military service and how to apply under INA sections 328 or 329.

Other Potential Costs to Consider

Aside from the USCIS filing fees, you may need to budget for the following additional expenses:

• Attorney or document preparation fees: You may choose to work with an immigration lawyer or a professional service to help with your N-400 application. These services can cost several hundred dollars or more.
• Translation services: If your supporting documents (like birth or marriage certificates) are not in English, you’ll need certified translations, which may come at an additional cost.
• Study materials and classes: Some applicants pay for civics test prep books, online resources, or English/citizenship classes, though free community-based options may also be available. To help you prepare, check out our U.S. citizenship test preparation guide.
• Medical certification for exemption: If you’re applying for a medical exemption from the English or civics requirement using Form N-648, a licensed medical professional must complete the form, and their services may include consultation fees.

What Are the Ways to Pay for U.S. Citizenship?

Paying If You Live in the United States

When filing Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization), USCIS offers multiple payment options depending on how you submit your application:

• Online Payment (Preferred Method)
  If you file your Form N-400 online through a USCIS account, you can pay securely using a:
  • Credit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover)
  • Debit card
  • Prepaid card
  • U.S. bank account (ACH)
• Payment by Mail (For Paper Filings)
  If you file a paper application by mail, you can:
  • Include a personal check, money order, or cashier’s check payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security”
  • Submit Form G-1450 (Authorization for Credit Card Transactions) if you want to pay by credit card
    

Paying If You Live outside the United States

If you plan to pay the U.S. citizenship application fee by money order, personal check, or cashier’s check while living abroad, contact your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for the latest payment instructions and accepted methods.

Important Rules and Tips When Submitting Your Payment

To avoid delays or rejection of your citizenship application, keep these important rules in mind when paying the fee:

• Use only one payment method per application. You cannot split payments (for example, pay part by check and part by credit card).
• Be consistent for family applications. If you are applying for multiple family members, use the same payment method for all applications.
• Pay the exact amount. USCIS will return your application if the payment is even slightly incorrect.
• Write the payee correctly. If paying by money order, personal check, or cashier’s check, make it payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security”. Do not use abbreviations like “USDHS” or “DHS.”
• Follow credit card instructions. If paying by credit card, fill out Form G-1450 completely, sign it, and place it on top of your Form N-400.
• Double-check your documents. Make sure your payment and application are properly matched and in the correct order.

Paying correctly the first time helps prevent processing delays and ensures your application is accepted without issue.

Reduced Fee and Fee Waiver Options for U.S. Citizenship

How to reduce your N-400 Naturalization cost? Fee Reduction and Waiver for U.S. Citizenship refer to special options available to applicants who cannot afford the full naturalization application fee due to low income or financial hardship. These options are provided by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to make the path to citizenship more accessible.

N-400 Reduced Fee

If you can’t afford the full naturalization fee but don’t qualify for a full waiver, you may apply for a reduced fee.

• Eligibility: Your household income should be less than 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
• Form to Use: Part 10 of Form N-400
• What You Pay: Instead of $760 (as of 2025), you pay $380 (includes biometric fee if required).
• Supporting Documents: You must provide recent tax returns, pay stubs, or other proof of income.

Note: If you request a reduced fee, you must file your application by mail, as online filing is not permitted. Previously, applicants seeking a reduced naturalization fee were required to submit a separate Form I-942. Recently, USCIS streamlined this process by incorporating the reduced fee request directly into Part 10 of Form N-400. As a result, there is no longer a separate form or fee payment required to request a reduced filing fee. Keep in mind that USCIS does not issue refunds, even if your application is denied.

Fee Waiver (Form I-912)

If you’re unable to pay at all, you can request a full waiver of the citizenship application fee.

• Eligibility (any one of the following):
  • You receive a means-tested benefit (e.g., Medicaid, SNAP, SSI).
  • Your household income is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
  • You’re experiencing financial hardship (e.g., medical debt, unemployment).
• Form to Use: Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver
• What You Pay: $0 (entire fee is waived).
• Supporting Documents: You must submit proof like benefit letters, tax returns, or medical bills.

Note: If you request a fee waiver, you must file your application by mail, as online filing is not permitted. Keep in mind that USCIS does not issue refunds, even if your application is denied.

FAQs on U.S. Citizenship Cost

Ready to Take the Next Step Toward U.S. Citizenship?

Applying for naturalization is a major milestone—but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re unsure about eligibility, need help with fee waivers, or simply want to make sure everything is filled out correctly, our affordable services and step-by-step guidance can help you avoid delays and get it right the first time. Join thousands of successful applicants who’ve trusted us to simplify the process.

Start your U.S. citizenship application today—with confidence.