The process of obtaining US citizenship will maintain the same costs in 2026 that have been in place since April 2024, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has confirmed. The agency did not announce new adjustments, so the rates established under that year’s final rule will remain in effect for those who begin the process as of January.
Naturalization, one of the most commonly used methods for permanent residents to become citizens, is done by filing Form N-400. The price varies depending on the shipping method: 710 US dollars For those who choose to complete the procedure online and 760 USD For applications sent in paper by regular mail. Members of the armed forces are exempt from payment.
The 2024 rate adjustment eliminated the separate fee for biometric services, which is now included in the original amount for all applicants. With the current scenario, the values will also apply in January 2026 unless the agency issues an update, which has not happened yet.
In addition to the full exemption for military personnel, other petitioners can ask USCIS to cover the cost of the procedure. This benefit is granted when the applicant proves that he or she cannot afford the fees. To request this, Form I-912 is used and must be submitted Sufficient evidence to support the economic situation.
The regulations also provide for a rate reduction 380 USD For those who prove it Family income less than 400% of the federal poverty guidelines, a parameter set by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
In these cases, it is no longer necessary to submit a separate form: it is sufficient to complete Part 10 of Form N-400 and include all documents required by the agency, accompanied by a full translation into English where appropriate. Both exemption and discount applicants must submit their application on paper, as these procedures cannot be carried out digitally.
To begin the path to citizenship, the applicant must meet the basic requirements: You must be at least 18 years oldDemonstrate the ability to read and write Communication in English At the basic level (depending on age) and proof Good ethical behavior. Permanent residents may file Form N-400 up to 90 days before completing the required period of continuous residence: Five years for public roads Or three years when the applicant is married to a US citizen.
Those who choose to take the procedure online must create an account with myUscis, where they can review case status and monitor processing times. Instead, those mailing it should first check which office the package should be sent to, since the location depends on the petitioner’s state of residence.
Once Uscis analyzes the application, the agency schedules an interview with an official. If the officer determines that the applicant meets all requirements, Schedule a naturalization ceremony. The process only ends when a person takes the Oath of Allegiance and officially obtains US citizenship.