How much does it cost to become a US citizen in 2026

Becoming a United States citizen represents one of the most meaningful decisions an immigrant can make, but the financial investment required often catches applicants off guard. If you're planning to file your naturalization application in 2026, you're looking at a total government filing cost of approximately $730 in USCIS fees alone—but that's just the beginning. Between biometric services, medical examinations, document translations, and certified copies, the true out-of-pocket expense can easily reach $1,200 to $2,000+ depending on your individual circumstances. This comprehensive guide breaks down every cost category you'll encounter on your path to citizenship, helping you budget accurately and avoid financial surprises during the application process.

Important Disclaimer: All fees mentioned in this article are subject to change. USCIS regularly adjusts immigration fees based on inflation indices. For the most current and official fee information, visit the USCIS official fee schedule at USCIS.gov, which is updated periodically and serves as the authoritative source for all government filing fees.

Understanding USCIS Filing Fees and Biometric Costs

The foundation of your citizenship application costs begins with two mandatory USCIS fees. The Form N-400 Application for Naturalization filing fee is $645 as of 2025-2026, though USCIS has indicated this figure may be subject to adjustment. The second mandatory expense is the biometric services fee of $85, which covers fingerprinting, photograph capture, and FBI background checks required for all naturalization applicants.

Combined, these two base fees total $730. This represents the minimum you must pay to USCIS to have your N-400 application processed. However, it's critical to understand that USCIS fee schedules are updated annually, typically in the fall, with changes effective the following January. If you're planning to apply in late 2026, fees may have increased from current projections. USCIS publishes fee adjustment notices 60 days in advance on their official website.

Fee Payment Methods: USCIS accepts the following payment methods for naturalization filing fees:

• Check or money order (personal or cashier's check)
• Credit card or debit card (using Form G-1450)
• Electronic filing through USCIS online account (if available in your area)

Do not send cash through the mail. If submitting by check or money order, make it payable to "U.S. Department of Homeland Security." Processing delays can occur if payment information is incorrect or incomplete, which may extend your overall application timeline by several weeks.

What Happens If Fees Change Between Application and Approval? If USCIS announces fee increases after you've submitted your N-400 but before USCIS accepts it for processing, you may be required to submit the additional amount. USCIS will typically notify you in writing if this occurs. Fee reductions, however, do not result in refunds for previously submitted payments.

Medical Examination, Documentation, and Hidden Expenses

Beyond the official USCIS filing and biometric fees, several additional costs accumulate during the naturalization process. Understanding these expenses is essential for accurate budgeting.

Medical Examination (Form I-693): All naturalization applicants must undergo a medical examination by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon. The cost of this examination is not included in USCIS fees and is paid directly to the civil surgeon's office. Medical examination costs range from $100 to $300 depending on your location, the complexity of your medical history, and whether additional tests are required. Urban areas with higher cost-of-living typically charge at the higher end of this range. This examination includes health screening, immunization review, and tuberculosis testing.

Document Copies and Certification: Most applicants need certified copies of vital records, including birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce decrees, and criminal history records. Expect to budget $50 to $150 for obtaining these documents from various state and local agencies. Each certified copy typically costs $5 to $20, and you may need multiple copies of each document.

Document Translation: If any of your documents are in a language other than English, you'll need certified translations from USCIS-approved translators. Professional translation services cost approximately $75 to $300 depending on document length and complexity. Translation is a common hidden expense that catches many applicants off guard.

Photographs: USCIS requires passport-style photographs for your N-400 application. While you can obtain these at drugstore photo services for $10 to $20, professional immigration photographers may charge $25 to $50 to ensure photos meet exact USCIS specifications.

Interview-Related Costs: While USCIS does not charge for the naturalization interview itself, applicants sometimes incur costs for interview preparation. Immigration attorneys typically charge $150 to $500 per hour for consultation services, though many offer flat-fee packages of $500 to $2,000 for N-400 application review and interview preparation. Legal representation is optional but increasingly common among applicants with complex cases, prior arrests, or language barriers.

State and Local Filing Fees: Some states charge naturalization filing fees or document processing fees. These are minimal (typically under $50) but vary by jurisdiction. Check with your county clerk's office for state-specific requirements.

Fee Waivers and Reduced Fee Options

USCIS recognizes that not all applicants can afford the full filing fee and offers two options: fee waivers and reduced fees. Eligibility depends on income thresholds relative to the federal poverty level.

Fee Waiver Eligibility: You may qualify for a complete fee waiver (Form I-912) if your household income is at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. For 2026, the federal poverty guidelines are:

• Individual: $16,050 annual income qualifies for waiver consideration
• Family of 4: $32,950 annual income qualifies for waiver consideration

Complete current federal poverty guidelines are available on USCIS.gov.

Reduced Fee Option: If your household income is between 201% and 250% of the federal poverty level, you may qualify for a reduced fee of $325 (half the standard filing fee). The biometric services fee of $85 is not reduced or waived. Submit Form I-912R to request a reduced fee.

Fee Waiver Documentation Requirements: To support a fee waiver request, you'll need to provide:

1. Proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs, or benefit statements)
2. Proof of household expenses (rent/mortgage, utilities, medical costs)
3. List of household members and their income
4. Affidavit explaining financial hardship

USCIS typically processes fee waiver requests within 2-4 weeks. Submitting a complete waiver request delays your overall application processing but can save you hundreds of dollars if approved. Approximately 15% of N-400 applicants request fee waivers annually.

FAQ: Common Cost-Related Questions About 2026 Naturalization

Q1: Can I apply for citizenship even if I can't afford the full $730 filing fee?

A: Yes. If your household