How Much Does It Cost to Become a U.S. Citizen in 2026?

The most common path to citizenship for foreign-born individuals is to apply for naturalization through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

The cost of naturalization is at least $710 to file Form N-400 (the main application).

You will also typically pay other expenses beyond the government filing fee, like for legal assistance, transportation to in-person interviews, and the cost to collect supporting documents. These additional expenses can easily add another $3,000 to $5,000 to the cost of the naturalization process.

How much does it cost to become a U.S. citizen?

In total, you’ll likely spend $1,000 or more to become a U.S. citizen. Filing fees are only $710 to $760 for Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization), but you may have additional expenses, like fees to get official documents or translations for your application packet.

If you work with an attorney, the total cost could be $1,000 to $3,000 higher. While an attorney can be expensive, the tradeoff is that they can save you significant time and stress by helping to gather documents, fill out forms, and respond to USCIS notices.

USCIS occasionally changes its fees. Check its Fee Schedule for the latest information. Also note that in 2026, the N-400 filing fee includes the cost of biometric services.

Who should use Form N-400 vs. N-600?

Form N-400 allows foreign-born individuals to apply for citizenship through naturalization and is the most common path if you weren’t born to a U.S. citizen.

If you were born to (or adopted by) a U.S. citizen parent, you may already have U.S. citizenship, so you don’t need to naturalize. Form N-600 provides a certificate of citizenship as proof of your status.

There may also be other situations when you should file Form N-600, like if your parents became citizens through naturalization while you were under 18.

What other costs should you expect during the naturalization process?

USCIS filing fees are unlikely to be your only expenses. Depending on your situation, you should also budget for:

• Travel to your biometrics appointment or naturalization interview
• Certified translations of foreign-language documents
• Replacement or supporting documents
• Immigration attorney fees
• Filing Form N-600 if you also need a Certificate of Citizenship

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How do you pay the Form N-400 filing fee?

In 2026, USCIS only accepts electronic payments for naturalization applications. After a rule change in 2025, USCIS no longer accepts personal checks, cashier's checks, or money orders.

• If you file N-400 online: Pay through pay.gov during the application process using a credit card, debit card, ACH bank transfer, or prepaid card.
• If you file N-400 by mail: You still need to authorize an electronic payment. Use Form G-1450 to pay via credit or debit card. Use Form G-1650 to pay via ACH bank transfer.

In rare cases, some applicants who cannot reasonably make electronic payments may request an accommodation by submitting Form G-1651 with supporting documentation. If approved, you can pay your fees with a check or money order.

Can you get a reduced filing fee or fee waiver?

Some applicants qualify for a waiver that allows them to pay less, or even nothing at all, based on household income or military service.

Who qualifies for a full fee waiver?

You may qualify for a full N-400 fee waiver if:

• Your household income is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, or
• You receive certain means-tested public benefits, such as Medicaid, SNAP, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

To request a waiver, submit Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, with evidence supporting your eligibility.

Who qualifies for a reduced filing fee?

Applicants whose household income falls between 150% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines may qualify for the reduced filing fee of $380 for Form N-400.

No separate application is required, but you'll need to submit documentation proving your household income when filing your naturalization application.

N-400 fees for military applicants

Current and former members of the U.S. military may qualify for free naturalization if they meet the eligibility requirements for military service naturalization. Some situations that may qualify you include having at least one year of military service or serving during a designated period of hostility.

Will U.S. citizenship fees increase in 2026?

In June 2026, USCIS proposed a large increase in the filing fee for Form N-400. The paper filing fee would increase from $760 to $1,330, and the online filing fee from $710 to $1,280. The proposal would also eliminate the reduced fee option and fee waivers for low-income applicants.

The increases have not been finalized due to a 60-day public comment window, but then USCIS can decide what changes to make, if any. USCIS fee changes are generally announced through the Federal Register before taking effect.

Should you hire an immigration lawyer?

Hiring an immigration lawyer is optional, but a lawyer can simplify the process by helping you gather supporting documents, fill out your application, and prepare for in-person tests or interviews. Even if your citizenship case is straightforward, legal help can bring peace of mind.

A lawyer may be especially worthwhile if you have:

• Extended travel periods outside the United States
• A criminal history
• Prior immigration violations
• Questions about continuous residence or physical presence
• Concerns that your application could be delayed or denied

If you’re undecided about whether a lawyer is worth it for you, the best thing to do is request a free consultation. You’ve already done the research, and a quick call will give you the honest answers you need.

👉 Request a consultation with Manifest Law’s experienced immigration lawyers now.

FAQs about U.S. citizenship costs

Is there a separate fee for the U.S. citizenship test?

No. The English and civics tests are included in the Form N-400 filing fee. There is no separate charge for taking the naturalization test.

Can I pay the N-400 filing fee in installments?

No. USCIS requires the full filing fee to be paid when you submit your application. Payment plans are not available.

What happens if USCIS denies my naturalization application?

USCIS does not refund the filing fee if your naturalization application is denied. You'll receive a written decision explaining the reason for the denial and whether you can request a hearing or appeal.

Do I have to pay a separate filing fee for each family member?

Yes, each applicant must submit a separate Form N-400 and pay the applicable filing fee. However, it’s possible for multiple family members to each qualify for reduced fees or fee waivers.

How long does it take to become a U.S. citizen?

Processing times for Form N-400 can take six to 12 months or more, plus the time it takes to prepare your application. You must also generally live in the U.S. for at least three or five years before you can become a citizen. Read more about how long the naturalization process takes.

Does the new public charge rule affect my citizenship application?

No. Public charge is a ground of inadmissibility that applies to green card and visa applications, not to naturalization. If you're already a lawful permanent resident filing Form N-400, public charge isn't part of what USCIS reviews. The rule change taking effect September 18, 2026, which rescinds the 2022 public charge regulation and gives officers broader discretion to weigh benefits use, affects green card and admission decisions, not the naturalization process.

Disclaimer. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading it, or contacting Manifest Law through this site, does not create an attorney-client relationship. Immigration law changes frequently, and the information here is current only as of the publication date. For advice on your specific situation, consult a licensed attorney. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. This communication is attorney advertising.