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How Much Does It Cost to Become a U.S. Citizen If You Have a Green Card?

Published in Naturalization Fees 2 mins read

The cost to become a U.S. citizen for a green card holder, primarily referring to the N-400 Application for Naturalization fee, generally ranges from $380 to $760. This fee includes the cost of biometric services, so no separate payment is required for that. The exact amount you pay depends on how you file your application and whether you qualify for a reduced fee.

Understanding the N-400 Application Fee

The primary expense in the U.S. citizenship application process for green card holders is the filing fee for Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. This fee covers the processing of your application by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and related services.

Standard Application Fees

The standard fee for filing the N-400 application can vary based on your submission method:

  • Paper Filing: The standard fee if you file your application by mail is $760.
  • Online Filing: If you choose to file your N-400 application online, the fee is reduced by $50, making the cost $710.

Reduced Fee Option

For eligible applicants, USCIS offers a reduced fee, significantly lowering the cost of naturalization. If you qualify for this option, you will pay $380. Eligibility for a reduced fee typically depends on your household income being above 150% and not more than 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Biometrics Services Included

A key advantage for applicants today is that the fee for biometric services (fingerprinting, photograph, and signature collection) is already included in the N-400 application fee. This means you no longer have to pay a separate fee for this essential part of the process.

Summary of Naturalization Costs

Here's a breakdown of the N-400 application fees:

Application Type Fee (USD) Notes
Standard N-400 (Paper Filing) $760 Includes biometrics fee.
Standard N-400 (Online Filing) $710 Reduced by $50 for online submission; includes biometrics fee.
Reduced Fee N-400 (Eligible) $380 For applicants meeting specific income guidelines; includes biometrics fee.

It's important to note that these fees are for the application itself and do not include potential costs such as legal assistance, document translation, or travel expenses for interviews or appointments. For the most current fee information and detailed eligibility requirements for reduced fees, it is always advisable to consult the official USCIS website. You can find detailed information about USCIS fees.