How much does naturalization cost?

For Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, the fee rule makes the following changes: As of April 1, 2024, the standard fee for filing is $760 for a paper filing of the N-400. Any applicant who seeks a reduced fee or a full fee waiver must file on paper. Under the 2024 fee rule, there is no separate biometrics fee.

How much does it cost to be a naturalized citizen?

Application Fees for Citizenship Range from $380-$760

If you file a paper application (form N-400) your cost will be $760. If you file an online application the fee is reduced by $50 and you will pay $710. If you qualify for a reduced fee, then you can expect to pay $380.

How much does it cost to apply for citizenship in 2025?

Submit $760 if filing by paper, or $710 if filing online.

How long does N-400 take to process?

N-400 processing times for U.S. naturalization vary significantly by location, but generally range from 6 to 12 months, with some field offices faster and others slower, though some cases are resolved quicker, even in a few months, while others can take longer due to backlogs or specific checks, with factors like application accuracy, workload, and field office resources causing delays. To get current estimates, you need to check the USCIS website for your specific Field Office or Service Center. 

What is the rejection rate for N-400?

However, during the same period, over 459,219 permanent residents had their Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, denied. USCIS denies an average of about 10 percent of applications each year.

What Are The Fees For Naturalization? - US Citizenship Immigration Guide

Can I apply for a passport immediately after a citizenship ceremony?

You will not receive a U.S. passport on the day of your swearing-in ceremony. In some parts of the United States, however (particularly in large cities), if you plan ahead and also leave yourself some time at the end of the ceremony to stand in a long line, you might be able to submit an application for one.

Does naturalisation affect my original citizenship?

U.S. law does not require a U.S. citizen to choose between U.S. citizenship and another (foreign) nationality (or nationalities). A U.S. citizen may naturalize in a foreign state without any risk to their U.S. citizenship.

What is the new citizenship fee?

Citizenship by Conferral (General Eligibility - Form 1300t): The new standard application fee is now $575.

Is naturalization worth it?

It opens access to full constitutional rights, long-term security, and broader opportunities. The benefits extend beyond protection from deportation. Citizenship unlocks full civic participation, unrestricted travel, and priority immigration options for family members.

What are the five requirements for citizenship?

To become a U.S. citizen through naturalization, you generally need to be at least 18, a permanent resident for 5 years (or 3 if married to a citizen), show continuous and physical U.S. presence, demonstrate good moral character, and pass English and civics tests while pledging allegiance. 

Is the citizenship test changing in 2025?

Yes, the U.S. citizenship test did change in 2025, with the new 2025 Civics Test implemented for applications filed on or after October 20, 2025, focusing more on U.S. history/government with an expanded 128-question bank and a streamlined process where officers stop after 12 correct or 9 incorrect answers, while English requirements remain the same. 

Can I be denied naturalization?

The most common reasons for citizenship denial include criminal record issues affecting good moral character, continuous residence breaks from long trips abroad, physical presence shortfalls, unpaid taxes or child support, selective service non-registration, and misrepresentation on naturalization applications.

Who qualifies for free citizenship?

Who qualifies for citizenship fee waiver? To qualify for a fee waiver, you must demonstrate one of the following: Your total annual household income is at or below 150% of Federal Poverty Guidelines. You have significant financial hardship, such as medical expenses or unemployment.

What are the 6 requirements to become a naturalized citizen?

• Physical Presence in the United States.
• Time in USCIS.
• District or State.
• Good Moral.
• Character.
• English & Civics.
• Knowledge.
• Attachment.

How many years does it take to naturalize us?

To naturalize as a U.S. citizen, you generally need to be a Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card holder) for 5 years, but this shortens to 3 years if you are married to and living with a U.S. citizen, with military service offering even faster paths; other factors like good moral character, continuous residency, and English proficiency are also required, with processing times varying. 

How much does the entire Citizenship process cost?

As of April 1, 2024, the naturalization application fee is $710 for applicants who file online through the USCIS website or $760 for applicants who submit a paper application by mail. There is not a separate fee for biometrics.

What documents do I need to apply for Citizenship?

For a U.S. citizenship (naturalization) application (Form N-400), you'll generally need your Green Card, passports, state ID, birth certificate, proof of marital status/divorce, employment/tax records (W-2s, tax transcripts), and travel history, but specific requirements vary by individual circumstances, so always check the official USCIS website for a comprehensive list, especially the Document Checklist M-477. You'll submit copies with the application but bring originals to your interview. 

Can Citizenship costs be waived?

Eligibility for a Fee Waiver

Your household income is at or below 150% percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines at the time you file. You are currently experiencing extreme financial hardship, including hardship from unexpected medical bills or emergencies, that prevents you from paying the filing fee.

Can you lose U.S. citizenship after naturalization?

Yes, a naturalized U.S. citizen can lose their citizenship through a legal process called denaturalization, primarily if it's proven they obtained it illegally through fraud, hiding material facts (like criminal history or immigration issues), or misrepresentation during the naturalization process, though it's rare and requires a court order. Citizens can also voluntarily renounce their citizenship by taking an oath at a U.S. embassy or consulate, intending to give up their U.S. status. 

Which country gives fastest citizenship by naturalization?

The fastest route is through Vanuatu's government program; within 1 to 4 months, an investor can become a citizen. In some cases, citizenship is easier to obtain by naturalisation after securing a residence permit or visa. For example, Portugal grants the D7 visa to financially independent individuals.

Does the U.S. allow 3 citizenships?

Yes, the U.S. allows for triple citizenship (or multiple citizenships); there's no U.S. law limiting the number of citizenships you can hold, but it depends on the laws of the other countries involved, as they might restrict dual/multiple nationalities. U.S. citizens must enter and leave the U.S. with a U.S. passport, and obligations to all countries apply, potentially creating conflicting laws, so you must check the rules of all nations. 

Do I need to update my SSN after naturalization?

Yes, you must update your Social Security record and get a new card after naturalization to reflect your U.S. citizenship, which removes work restrictions and ensures your records (like for employment or benefits) are accurate, often by applying in person with your Naturalization Certificate or submitting Form SS-5, though some newer N-400 applicants get it automatically if they consented. 

How long after citizenship ceremony do I get my certificate?

At the ceremony you will make your Declaration of fidelity to the Irish nation and loyalty to the State. Your certificate of naturalisation will be issued to you within 4 to 6 weeks after the ceremony.

What is the 3 year rule for N-400?

The N-400 "3-Year Rule" allows spouses of U.S. citizens to apply for naturalization after being a Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card holder) for three years, instead of the standard five, provided they meet specific conditions: being married to the same U.S. citizen for those three years, living with them in a genuine marital union, having been a permanent resident for three years, and fulfilling physical presence (18 months) and continuous residence requirements during that time. You must prove continuous residence, demonstrate good moral character, and meet English/civics requirements, with evidence like joint tax returns, leases, and birth certificates of children.