USCIS Fee Rule Updates

On January 31, the Biden administration announced changes in naturalization fees (among other immigration-related fees and regulations) that reflect a substantial step towards making the process more accessible. These changes will become effective on April 1, 2024.

• Naturalization will now cost $760 for paper applicants, representing a modest increase (the current cost is $725). However, the government lowered the fee to $710 for online filing.
• The most significant and positive change is the expanded eligibility for a reduced fee (half of the cost) for people with an income between 200% and 400% of the poverty guidelines. This change allows people to qualify for a reduced fee of $380. To illustrate, a family of four earning over $3,900 but less than $10,400 a month can now benefit from this reduced fee. We believe this change will motivate more people to naturalize.
• A full waiver remains accessible for individuals with an income under 150% of the poverty guidelines or those receiving means-tested benefits. Unfortunately, fee waiver requests are only available on paper, representing an access barrier to low-income people who want to file a fee waiver online.
• For many years, the NAC has urged USCIS, through sign-on letters, community engagements, and op-eds, to make applying for U.S. citizenship more affordable. Expanding the reduced fee eligibility for naturalization represents a significant victory in our efforts and will ultimately increase the accessibility of citizenship for many aspiring citizens.

We will continue to advocate for online access to fee waiver requests (individuals must fill out two separate government forms to apply for naturalization and fee waivers). The NAC team will also share trainings and community resources to inform our partners as they adjust to the new regulations.

USCIS is funded almost entirely by fees paid by applicants and USCIS’ final fee rule significantly increases the fees for other immigration benefits. If you want to learn more, here is a summary of changes and FAQ.