Last updated: August 12, 2025.
By Asel Williams, Esq. · Columbia Law School · Licensed immigration attorney
Becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization is a significant milestone, and while it offers numerous benefits, it can be costly.
Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization, is the primary form used to apply for U.S. citizenship.
Understanding the financial aspects of this process is an essential piece of planning and ensuring a smooth application experience.
Here’s a detailed look at the costs associated with Form N-400, payment methods, fee waivers, and processing times.
How Much Does it Cost to Become a Citizen?
As of 2024, the standard fee for filing Form N-400 is $710 if applying online and $760 if applying via mail (paper form).
The application fee covers the cost of processing your naturalization application, while the biometric services fee is used for fingerprinting and other background checks required for your application.
It is essential to verify the current Fee Schedule on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website or call USCIS directly (800-375-5283), as fees are subject to change.
How Do I Pay USCIS Fees?
USCIS provides several methods for paying the fees associated with Form N-400. You can choose the payment method that best suits your needs:
- Online Payment: If you are filing Form N-400 online through your USCIS account, you can pay the fee electronically using a credit card, debit card, or electronic bank transfer. This is often the most convenient method, as it provides immediate confirmation of your payment.
- Paper Application Payment: If you are submitting a paper application, you can pay the fee by check or money order. Make the check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Ensure you write your name, address, and Form N-400 on the check or money order to facilitate proper processing.
- Fee Payment with Other Forms: You may be required to file other forms along with Form N-400. Make sure that you include the appropriate fee for each form and follow the specific instructions provided for fee payment.
Be sure to follow USCIS’s payment instructions carefully to avoid any delays or issues with your application.
Are USCIS Fees Refundable?
USCIS fees are generally non-refundable.
This means that if you withdraw your application or if it is denied, you will not receive a refund of the fees you paid.
This policy underscores the importance of ensuring that your application is complete and accurate before submission.
In cases where an application is rejected due to errors or omissions, USCIS will not refund the fees, and you will need to pay the fee again when reapplying.
Therefore, you must carefully review your application and supporting documents to minimize the risk of errors that could lead to rejection or delays.
Can I Get N-400 Fees Reduced or Waived?
In certain situations, USCIS offers options to reduce or waive the fees associated with Form N-400.
This can be particularly helpful for applicants who face financial hardship. Here’s how you can potentially reduce or waive the fees:
- Fee Reduction: USCIS does not generally offer fee reductions for Form N-400. However, you may be eligible for a reduction if your documented household income is not more than 400 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. You must be able to prove this with supporting documentation in your application. In this case, you must mail the paper form and your fee may be reduced to $380.
- Fee Waiver: For those who cannot afford the full fee, USCIS provides a fee waiver option for exceptions. To apply for a fee waiver, you must submit Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, along with your Form N-400 application. You must demonstrate that you meet specific income requirements or financial hardship criteria to qualify for the fee waiver.
Am I Eligible for a Fee Waiver?
To be eligible for a fee waiver for Form N-400, you must meet specific criteria. Eligibility for a fee waiver is generally based on the following:
- Income Level: You must show that your household income is at or below 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. The specific income thresholds vary depending on your household size and location.
- Public Benefits: Alternatively, you can qualify for a fee waiver if you receive certain public benefits, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Medicaid, or other means-tested benefits.
- Financial Hardship: If you are experiencing significant financial difficulties, you must provide evidence such as tax returns, bank statements, and proof of public assistance to support your request for a fee waiver.
USCIS will review your request and determine if you qualify for the fee waiver. If approved, you will not need to pay the fee associated with N-400.
How Long Will it Take to Process My N-400 Application?
The processing time for Form N-400 can vary based on several factors, including the volume of applications and the specific service center handling your case.
Currently, the processing time for N-400 cases is about 5 months to 10 months. However, this timeline will vary based on the complexity of your case and the workload of the service center.
USCIS provides approximate processing times on their website, which are updated regularly.
You can check the current processing times for Form N-400 based on the service center where your application is being processed.
Generally, it’s a good idea to submit your application well in advance of any deadlines and to keep track of your application status through your USCIS online account.
Need help?
Consulting with our experienced and knowledgeable immigration professionals can provide valuable insights into the current processing timelines.
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