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USCIS May Soon Increase Naturalization Fees by More Than 70%: Why Eligible Green Card Holders Should Apply Now
- I.S. Law Firm
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
If you have been thinking about applying for U.S. citizenship but have been waiting for the "right time," recent developments may give you a good reason not to delay.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has published a proposed rule that would significantly increase the cost of applying for naturalization. If the proposal becomes final, the filing fee for Form N-400 would increase from $760 to $1,330 for paper applications and from $710 to $1,280 for online applications. DHS is also proposing to eliminate the reduced filing fee available to certain lower-income applicants, as well as most fee waivers for naturalization applications. The proposal is currently open for public comment and has not yet taken effect, but it signals a significant change in the cost of becoming a U.S. citizen.
Why Is This Important?
For many lawful permanent residents, waiting could become expensive. If the proposed rule is finalized, applicants may have to pay hundreds of dollars more to become U.S. citizens.
At the same time, USCIS has increased its focus on carefully reviewing naturalization applications. Officers are paying closer attention to issues such as good moral character, immigration history, tax compliance, and overall eligibility. A complete and well-prepared application is more important than ever.
Are You Already Eligible?
Many Green Card holders are surprised to learn that they are already eligible to apply for citizenship.
Generally, you may qualify if you have:
Been a lawful permanent resident for five years, or
Been a lawful permanent resident for three years while married to and living with a U.S. citizen.
Additional requirements include continuous residence, physical presence, good moral character, and passing the English and civics tests unless an exemption applies.
If you already qualify, there may be little advantage in waiting.
The Benefits of Becoming a U.S. Citizen
Naturalization offers many important benefits, including:
The right to vote in federal elections.
A U.S. passport and easier international travel.
The ability to petition certain family members more quickly.
Protection from losing your permanent resident status due to extended travel abroad.
No more Green Card renewal fees.
Greater security and stability for you and your family.
Applying before any fee increase takes effect may also save you hundreds of dollars in government filing fees.
Learn More Before You Apply
Our office regularly publishes articles and educational resources to help applicants understand the naturalization process.
Visit our Citizenship & Naturalization Resource Center: https://www.islawfirm.com/blog/categories/citizenship-naturalization
We also invite you to watch our educational YouTube videos covering naturalization eligibility, interview preparation, the civics test, and recent USCIS policy updates.
Watch our Naturalization videos here: https://www.youtube.com/@ImmigrationUS/search?query=naturalization
Our Recommendation
Every year, we meet Green Card holders who planned to apply for citizenship "next year." Unfortunately, immigration laws, government filing fees, and USCIS policies can change unexpectedly. The proposed fee increase is an important reminder that delaying your application may cost you both time and money.
If you are already eligible for naturalization, now is an excellent time to evaluate your case. Filing before any fee increase takes effect could save you hundreds of dollars and put you one step closer to becoming a U.S. citizen.
Our office will carefully review your eligibility, identify any issues before filing, help you gather the required documentation, prepare a complete and well-supported application, and guide you through every stage of the naturalization process: from filing Form N-400 to preparing for your citizenship interview and oath ceremony.
Don't wait until filing fees increase, or immigration policies change again. If you believe you may already qualify for U.S. citizenship, contact our office today to schedule a consultation. We'll help you determine your eligibility, avoid common mistakes, and move confidently toward becoming a U.S. citizen.
Enara Shukurova
Senior Immigration Paralegal
Consultations - I.S. Law Firm
P.: (703) 527-1779
W.: islawfirm.com
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