New Fee Structure Proposed for US Citizenship Applications
Overview of the Proposed Changes
The Trump administration has introduced a new plan that would increase application fees for legal immigrants seeking US citizenship by an additional $570. This proposal, released by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) in the Federal Register, aims to implement a "full-cost, beneficiary-pays" model, which would transfer the financial burden of naturalization directly onto applicants. If this plan is enacted, it will impact hundreds of thousands of lawful permanent residents applying for citizenship annually.
Details of the Proposed Fee Increases
What Changes Are Being Proposed?
Under the new proposal, applicants will be responsible for the complete cost of processing their citizenship applications, which includes enhanced screening and vetting procedures mandated by recent executive orders. The proposed fee hikes are as follows:
Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization)- Paper filing: Increased from $760 to $1,330 (a 75% rise)
- Online filing: Increased from $710 to $1,280 (an 80% rise)
- Paper filing: Increased from $830 to $1,475 (a 78% rise)
- Online filing: Increased from $780 to $1,425 (an 83% rise)
DHS states that these increased fees are reflective of the costs associated with background checks, interviews, testing, and reviews of an applicant's immigration history and character.
Understanding Forms N-400 and N-336
What are Forms N-400 and N-336?
Form N-400 is the main application utilized by lawful permanent residents, often referred to as green card holders, to apply for US citizenship. Conversely, Form N-336 is for those who wish to appeal after their naturalization application has been denied. The proposal notes that "the vast majority of aliens apply for naturalization by filing Form N-400," while those whose applications are rejected may file Form N-336 to request a hearing regarding the denial.
Changes to Fee Waivers
What Happens to Fee Waivers?
The new proposal would significantly reduce the availability of existing fee waivers and reduced-fee programs. Currently, some applicants can qualify for waivers based on their income, public benefits, or financial hardships. However, under the proposed rule, DHS indicates that eligibility for fee waivers for Form N-400 or Form N-336 would be eliminated, along with the reduced fee for Form N-400. The department argues that removing these low-cost filing options would enhance efficiency and decrease applications from individuals who may not qualify. An exception will remain for current and former members of the US military, who will continue to be exempt from filing fees as mandated by law.
Concerns from Experts
Concerns Raised
This proposal has raised alarms among immigration policy experts, who believe that the increased fees could pose additional challenges for lower-income immigrants seeking citizenship. Adam Klein, a former DHS official and co-founder of Globali.ai, expressed to a media outlet that this proposal marks a significant shift in the financial landscape of becoming a US citizen. He noted that while USCIS is primarily funded by fees and must recover its operational costs, the substantial increase in naturalization fees could make citizenship less accessible for those with limited means. Klein emphasized that citizenship has historically been encouraged due to its association with greater economic mobility, civic engagement, and long-term integration, and that higher fees could undermine these objectives.
Potential Impact of the Proposal
What Will be the Impact of Move?
DHS has acknowledged that the increased costs might delay citizenship applications for some lawful permanent residents. However, the department maintains that the demand for citizenship remains relatively stable and that naturalization is an "inelastic" benefit that applicants will continue to pursue despite rising costs. The proposal is still in the early stages and must undergo a public consultation process, allowing the public 60 days from its publication in the Federal Register to submit comments. DHS will review the feedback and may adjust the proposal before finalizing the rule.