Becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization (Form N-400) involves more than just the filing fee.
From mandatory biometrics to hidden costs like travel, legal help, and document translation, this guide breaks down every expense you should budget for.
1. Official USCIS Fees (as of 2026)
USCIS is fee-funded and increases prices periodically.
- Form N-400 (Naturalization) filing fee: $710 (includes $85 biometrics fee).
- Reduced fee for low-income applicants: If household income is below 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines, fee is $380 (file Form I-942).
- No fee waiver for N-400: Unlike other forms, naturalization fees are rarely waived except for military applicants.
Important: USCIS updates fees every 1-2 years. Always check the official page before paying.
2. Additional USCIS-Related Costs
- Biometrics fee (if not included): $85 (already included in $710 for N-400).
- Replacement of lost Green Card (if needed): Form I-90 = $455 + $85 biometrics = $540.
- Oath ceremony fee: None (included). However, some courts charge a small administrative fee ($10-20).
3. Mandatory Non-USCIS Expenses
- Passport photos: Two identical 2x2 inch photos. CVS/Walgreens: $15-20, or DIY with an app ($5).
- Travel to USCIS appointments: Gas, parking, or public transit. Average: $20-100 per trip (biometrics + interview + oath ceremony = 3 trips).
- Time off work: USCIS does not reimburse lost wages. Average lost wages: $200-500 per appointment.
4. Translation & Document Costs
If any of your documents (birth certificate, marriage certificate) are not in English, you need certified translations.
- Certified translation per page: $20-40. Average application needs 3-5 pages = $60-200.
- Notarization (rarely needed): $10-15 per signature.
5. Legal & Preparation Costs (Optional but Common)
- Attorney consultation: $100-300 per hour (some offer free first consult).
- Full representation (N-400): $800 to $2,500 depending on complexity (criminal history, prior denials).
- Accredited representative (non-profit): $0-200 (e.g., Catholic Charities, local immigration clinic).
- Civics test prep materials: Free official guides (USCIS website) or apps ($5-20).
6. Hidden & Post-Approval Costs
- U.S. Passport application (first time): $130 (passport book) + $30 execution fee = $160 (another $15 for passport card).
- Name change (if requested during naturalization): No extra fee from USCIS, but updating Social Security ($0) and driver's license ($10-50) may have small costs.
- Overseas document legalization: If you need apostille for original birth certificate abroad: $50-200.
Total estimated out-of-pocket (no lawyer): $710 (N-400) + $20 (photos) + $100 (translations) + $160 (passport) = ~$990.
How to Save Money
- Use USCIS's free online filing (no paper, no postage).
- Request a fee reduction (Form I-942) if income qualifies.
- Attend free naturalization information sessions (USCIS hosts community events).
- Never pay for 'guaranteed approval' or 'fast track' services — they are scams.
Remember: citizenship is an investment in your future. The one-time cost of ~$1,000 is far less than the lifelong value of voting rights, a U.S. passport, and protection from deportation.