The exact cost to become a US citizen primarily involves the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) application fees for naturalization, which vary depending on the filing date.
Currently, the naturalization application (Form N-400) costs $640 for a paper application. If the application includes the biometrics (fingerprint) fee, the cost is $725.
Starting April 1, 2024, the combined cost for the naturalization application and the biometrics fee will increase to $760.
Breakdown of Naturalization Application Fees
The primary cost associated with becoming a US citizen is the fee for filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, along with the required biometrics fee.
Here's a detailed look at the fees:
| Fee Component | Current Cost (Before April 1, 2024) | Cost Effective April 1, 2024 |
|---|---|---|
| N-400 Application (Paper Filing) | $640 | Not explicitly listed as separate, often combined with biometrics |
| N-400 Application + Biometrics Fee | $725 | $760 |
These fees are paid directly to USCIS to process your application. The biometrics fee covers the cost of fingerprinting, photos, and signature collection necessary for background checks.
It is important to note that these figures represent the official application and biometrics fees. Additional costs, such as legal assistance or travel expenses for interviews, are not included in these figures. For the most current and detailed information on fees, it is always advisable to check the official USCIS website.
