DHS Proposes Significant Naturalization Fee Hike, Eliminating Low-Income Discount
Summary
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has proposed a new rule that would substantially increase naturalization filing fees, setting them at $1,330 for paper and $1,280 for online applications. Crucially, this proposal also eliminates the long-standing reduced fee option for low-income households, making the path to citizenship more expensive and potentially inaccessible for many. This change could create significant financial barriers, especially for vulnerable populations aspiring to become U.S. citizens.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has unveiled a proposed rule that seeks to significantly restructure and increase the fees associated with naturalization applications. Under the new proposal, the standard fee for a paper N-400 application would rise to $1,330, while online filings would be set at $1,280. A critical aspect of this proposed change is the complete elimination of the reduced fee option, which has historically provided financial relief for low-income applicants seeking U.S. citizenship. This move represents a substantial shift in policy, potentially impacting thousands of eligible permanent residents.
The practical impact of these proposed fee hikes, especially the removal of the reduced fee, is profound for aspiring citizens. Many individuals and families, particularly those with modest incomes, rely on the current fee structure to afford the naturalization process. If implemented, these changes could create significant financial barriers, potentially delaying or even preventing eligible immigrants from becoming naturalized citizens, thereby hindering their full integration into American society and political life.
Background
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), under DHS, periodically reviews and adjusts its fee schedule to cover operational costs, with the last major fee adjustment occurring in late 2020. Fee waivers and reduced fees have been part of the naturalization process for many years to ensure accessibility for all eligible income levels.
Who This Affects
- Low-income permanent residents will be disproportionately impacted as the elimination of the reduced fee option means they will face the full, higher cost of naturalization.
- All eligible permanent residents applying for naturalization will face increased costs, regardless of their filing method (paper or online).
- Immigrant advocacy organizations and legal aid groups will likely see an increased demand for assistance with fee waivers or alternative funding solutions as applicants struggle with higher costs.
What You Should Do Now
- Monitor official USCIS announcements closely for updates on the proposed rule, including public comment periods and final implementation dates.
- If you are currently eligible and intend to apply for naturalization, consider filing your application before the proposed fee increases are finalized and take effect.
- Explore options for legal aid or community support if you anticipate financial difficulty with the increased fees, as organizations may offer guidance or resources.
Key Takeaway
The proposed DHS rule would significantly increase naturalization fees and eliminate the reduced fee for low-income applicants, creating substantial financial hurdles for aspiring U.S. citizens.
Source: Read official article on Murthy Law Firm
Publisher note — NaviBound summarizes cited third-party sources for convenience only. Confirm all requirements with the linked official announcement and qualified professionals. Not legal advice. Display date: Jun 23, 2026. Editorial policy