The dream of becoming a U.S. citizen comes with paperwork, patience, and—perhaps most confusing of all—price tags that add up quickly. While the government publishes standard fees, many applicants are surprised by additional expenses that crop up along the way.
Understanding what costs are mandatory and which ones are optional (but often worthwhile) can help you budget confidently and avoid last-minute surprises.
Standard Filing Fees
The heart of every naturalization budget is the Form N-400 filing fee, currently set at $640. This charge covers the government’s administrative review of your application, background checks, and interview scheduling. Unless you qualify for a full or partial fee waiver because of low income, there’s no getting around this expense.
Couples applying separately must each pay the full amount, and you cannot “share” a single fee even if your paperwork is submitted together. Always confirm the latest figure on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website before mailing your packet—fees can change without much notice.
Required Biometric Services
Most adult applicants also pay an $85 biometric services fee. After USCIS accepts your filing, you’ll receive an appointment notice to visit an Application Support Center where your fingerprints, photograph, and signature are collected. These biometrics are used to run an FBI background check and to verify your identity at the naturalization interview.
Children under 14 who file with a parent and certain older applicants may be exempt, but everyone else should plan for this cost. Skipping the appointment or showing up late can delay your entire case, so be sure to budget both the fee and any travel expenses to the nearest center.
Common Extra Expenses
Beyond government charges, several “optional but smart” costs frequently arise. Professional passport-style photos—usually two copies—run about $15 at pharmacies or shipping stores and must meet strict size and background requirements. Certified translations for documents not in English can range from $25 to $50 per page. Some applicants invest in citizenship preparation classes, which vary widely in price but often hover around $100 to $200 for group courses.
Mailing your packet with tracking and signature confirmation typically costs $10 to $25, depending on the carrier. While none of these items are mandated by USCIS, they strongly influence how smoothly and confidently your application moves forward.
Hidden Costs and Money-Saving Tips
Finally, factor in the less visible costs—time away from work for appointments, transportation to and from the interview and oath ceremony, and potential legal help if your case is complicated. Many people consult a U.S. immigration law firm for a one-hour strategy session (often $150 to $300) to ensure their paperwork is airtight, which can ultimately save money by preventing denials or delays.
To keep expenses down, gather every required document before paying for translations, use community centers that offer free citizenship classes, and schedule appointments early in the day to minimize missed work hours.
Conclusion
Achieving U.S. citizenship is an investment in your future, and clarity on the full slate of costs prevents sticker shock. By separating mandatory government fees from common extras and hidden expenses, you can create a realistic budget and focus on what truly matters—crossing the finish line at your oath ceremony with confidence and peace of mind.
