How Much Does It Cost to Become a U.S. Citizen? A Comprehensive Guide to the Fees Involved
Becoming a U.S. citizen is a dream for many immigrants, but the process can be complex and costly. The cost of becoming a U.S. citizen depends on several factors, including the applicant's age, length of residency, and other circumstances. Attorney Kyndra L. Mulder specializes in immigration law and can help navigate the complexities of the process.
One of the most significant costs of becoming a U.S. citizen is the application fee. As of 2021, the application fee is $640, and the biometric services fee is $85, for a total of $725 for most applicants. However, some individuals may qualify for a fee waiver or reduced fee. Attorney Kyndra L. Mulder can help determine whether an applicant is eligible for a fee waiver or reduced fee and assist in the application process.
In addition to the application fee, there may be other costs associated with becoming a U.S. citizen, such as legal fees, translation fees, and travel expenses. Attorney Kyndra L. Mulder can provide personalized legal services to help applicants understand the costs and requirements of becoming a U.S. citizen and guide them through the process.
Eligibility Requirements
To become a U.S. citizen, an individual must meet certain eligibility requirements. These requirements include:
Age: The applicant must be at least 18 years old at the time of filing the naturalization application.
Residency: The applicant must have been a lawful permanent resident of the United States for at least five years, or three years if married to a U.S. citizen.
Physical Presence: The applicant must have been physically present in the United States for at least half of the five or three-year period immediately preceding the filing of the naturalization application.
Good Moral Character: The applicant must have good moral character for at least five years prior to filing the naturalization application and throughout the naturalization process.
English Language Proficiency: The applicant must be able to read, write, speak, and understand basic English.
Knowledge of U.S. Civics: The applicant must have knowledge of U.S. history and government.
In addition to the above requirements, there may be other eligibility criteria that an individual must meet. For example, individuals who have served in the U.S. armed forces may be eligible for expedited naturalization or may be exempt from certain requirements.
It is important to note that meeting the eligibility requirements is just the first step in the naturalization process. The applicant must also complete and submit the naturalization application, pay the required fees, and attend a naturalization interview.
Application Fees
Becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization requires filing an application and paying a fee. The application fee for Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, is $640, as of 2021. This fee is non-refundable and must be submitted with the application.
N-400 Application Fee
The N-400 application fee is the primary fee associated with applying for U.S. citizenship. This fee covers the cost of processing the application and is required for all applicants. As of 2021, the fee is $640, but it is subject to change.
Biometrics Fee
In addition to the N-400 application fee, applicants must also pay a biometrics fee of $85. This fee covers the cost of taking fingerprints, photographs, and signatures. Biometrics are used to conduct background checks and determine eligibility for citizenship.
Fee Waivers and Reductions
Some applicants may be eligible for a fee waiver or reduction. For example, members of the military and their spouses may be eligible for a waiver of the application fee. Additionally, applicants who can demonstrate financial hardship may be eligible for a fee reduction.
It is important to note that fee waivers and reductions are not automatic and must be requested by the applicant. Applicants must submit a separate form, Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, along with their N-400 application to request a fee waiver or reduction.
Attorney Kyndra L. Mulder advises that applicants should carefully review the eligibility requirements for fee waivers and reductions before submitting their application. She recommends consulting with an experienced immigration attorney to determine eligibility and to ensure that the application is properly prepared and submitted.
Additional Costs
Becoming a U.S. citizen involves more than just paying the application fee. There are additional costs that applicants should be aware of when considering the naturalization process. In this section, we will discuss some of the most common additional costs that applicants may encounter.
Legal Assistance
While it is possible to complete the naturalization process without the assistance of a lawyer, many applicants choose to hire legal representation to help them navigate the complexities of immigration law. Attorney Kyndra L. Mulder specializes in immigration law and can offer personalized legal services to clients. Hiring a lawyer can be expensive, but it may be worth the cost for applicants who want to ensure that their application is completed correctly and that they are fully prepared for the naturalization interview.
Document Translation
All documents submitted as part of the naturalization application must be in English or accompanied by an English translation. Applicants who do not speak English fluently may need to hire a translator to help them prepare their documents. The cost of translation services can vary depending on the complexity of the documents and the language being translated.
Travel Expenses
Applicants may need to travel to attend their naturalization interview or to take the citizenship test. Depending on where the applicant lives, this could involve significant travel expenses. Applicants should also be prepared to take time off work to attend these appointments.
Overall, becoming a U.S. citizen can be an expensive process, but it is an investment in the applicant's future. By understanding the additional costs involved, applicants can better prepare themselves for the naturalization process and ensure that they have the resources they need to succeed.
Financial Assistance Options
Becoming a U.S. citizen can be expensive, but there are financial assistance options available to help ease the burden of the cost. Here are a few options to consider:
Fee Waivers
If you are unable to afford the fees associated with becoming a U.S. citizen, you may be eligible for a fee waiver. According to USCIS, you may qualify for a fee waiver if you are currently receiving a means-tested benefit or have a household income that is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. To apply for a fee waiver, you will need to fill out and submit Form I-912 along with your citizenship application.
Payment Plans
Some immigration lawyers may offer payment plans to help you pay for the costs associated with becoming a U.S. citizen. This allows you to pay the fees over time instead of all at once. If you are considering this option, it is important to make sure you fully understand the terms of the payment plan before agreeing to it.
Nonprofit Organizations
There are several nonprofit organizations that offer financial assistance to individuals who are seeking to become U.S. citizens. For example, the OneAmerica organization provides assistance with citizenship applications and offers financial assistance to those who cannot afford the application fees.
Conclusion
While becoming a U.S. citizen can be expensive, there are options available to help you manage the costs. If you are struggling to afford the fees associated with becoming a citizen, consider exploring one or more of these financial assistance options.
Timeframe and Process
Application Processing Time
The processing time for an application for naturalization (Form N-400) varies depending on the USCIS office handling the application. According to USCIS, the average processing time for Form N-400 is currently 10.5 months. However, processing times can range from 7.5 to 30 months, depending on the office.
Naturalization Interview and Test
Once the application is processed, the applicant will be scheduled for a naturalization interview. During the interview, the USCIS officer will review the application and ask questions to determine the applicant's eligibility for naturalization. The officer will also administer an English and civics test. The English test assesses the applicant's ability to read, write, and speak English, while the civics test assesses the applicant's knowledge of U.S. history and government.
According to USA.gov, most people are required to take the 2008 U.S. naturalization test during the interview. The test has two parts: a civics test (U.S. history and government) and an English test. Applicants can find study resources for the test on the USCIS website.
Oath of Allegiance Ceremony
If the applicant passes the interview and test, they will be scheduled for an oath of allegiance ceremony. During the ceremony, the applicant will take an oath of allegiance to the United States and receive their Certificate of Naturalization.
It is important to note that the naturalization process can be complex and time-consuming. Applicants are encouraged to seek the assistance of an experienced immigration attorney like Attorney Kyndra L. Mulder to help them navigate the process and ensure their rights are protected.
Long-Term Benefits of Citizenship
Becoming a U.S. citizen offers many long-term benefits that are not available to permanent residents. Here are some of the most significant:
Voting Rights
U.S. citizens have the right to vote in federal, state, and local elections. This means that citizens have a say in who represents them in government and can participate in shaping the policies that affect their lives.
Travel Benefits
U.S. citizens can travel freely to and from the United States without worrying about visa restrictions or the possibility of being denied entry. Additionally, citizens can receive assistance from U.S. embassies and consulates while traveling abroad.
Job Opportunities
Some jobs, particularly those in government or requiring security clearance, are only available to U.S. citizens. Additionally, U.S. citizens may have an advantage when applying for jobs that require travel or work overseas.
Family Benefits
U.S. citizens can sponsor family members for immigration to the United States more easily and with fewer restrictions than permanent residents. Additionally, U.S. citizens can pass on citizenship to their children born abroad.
Public Benefits
U.S. citizens are eligible for a wide range of public benefits, including Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. These benefits can provide crucial support for citizens who are retired, disabled, or facing financial hardship.
In summary, becoming a U.S. citizen offers many long-term benefits that can improve an individual's quality of life in numerous ways. Attorney Kyndra L. Mulder, an immigration law specialist, can help guide clients through the citizenship process and ensure that they understand all of the benefits and responsibilities that come with citizenship.
