The cost of becoming a US citizen could soon rise sharply. The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed a significant increase in naturalisation filing fees, potentially making American citizenship considerably more expensive for lawful permanent residents, including thousands of Indians who apply for citizenship each year.
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The proposal would not only raise application costs by up to 80% but also eliminate fee waivers and reduced-fee options currently available to lower-income applicants.
1. Who can apply for US citizenship?
To become a naturalised US citizen, applicants must generally be at least 18 years old, hold lawful permanent resident (green card) status, and have lived in the United States continuously for at least five years.
They must also have been physically present in the country for at least 30 months during that period and lived for at least three months in the state or USCIS district where they file their application.
Applicants are also required to maintain good moral character, demonstrate an attachment to the principles of the US Constitution, and remain continuously resident in the country until citizenship is granted. In addition, they must pass English language requirements and show a basic understanding of US history, government and civics.
2. N-400 citizenship application fee could rise by up to 80%
Under the Department of Homeland Security's proposal, the filing fee for Form N-400, the primary application used by green card holders seeking US citizenship, would increase sharply.
The fee for paper applications would rise from $760 to $1,330, a jump of 75%, while online applicants would see the fee increase from $710 to $1,280, an increase of around 80%.
3. Reduced fees and fee waivers could be eliminated
The proposal would end reduced-fee applications and most fee waivers currently available to lower-income applicants.
If approved, the change could make the citizenship process significantly more expensive for students, retirees and other immigrants who currently qualify for financial assistance.
Also Read: Also Read: Upto 80% Jump in Green Card Fee? Proposition Made; What Would Be Indians' Stake?
4. Nearly 50,000 Indians became US citizens in FY 2024
Indians continue to be among the largest groups acquiring American citizenship.
According to DHS data, 49,700 Indians became US citizens in FY 2024, making India the second-largest country of birth among newly naturalised Americans after Mexico.
