USCIS Citizenship Application Fees: 2024 Cost Breakdown! The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) sets the fees for various immigration and naturalization applications. These fees are subject to change, so it’s crucial to stay updated with the latest information. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the costs associated with different forms and services, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your U.S. citizenship journey.
Table of Contents
1. Overview of USCIS Fees in 2024
What is USCIS?
In 2024, understanding USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) application fees is essential for navigating the immigration and naturalization process. As part of the Department of Homeland Security, USCIS manages immigration and naturalization adjudication functions and sets fees for these services. These fees differ from those managed by the U.S. Department of State, which handles visa fees for entering the U.S.
What are the different types of USCIS forms?
USCIS categorizes its forms into several types, each tailored to different immigration or naturalization needs.
- N-Type Forms: Focus on naturalization and citizenship processes.
- I-Type Forms: Cover immigrant petitions, including those for family and employment-based visas.
- G-Type Forms: Generally used for genealogy and record requests. These forms typically have lower fees than other types, and some may even be free.
How much are USCIS fees?
USCIS application fees can vary significantly based on:
- Complexity and Type: Fees align with the complexity of processing different types of applications.
- Tiered Fees: Some forms feature a tiered fee structure to accommodate various application scenarios.
Are USCIS fees refundable?
Most USCIS application fees are non-refundable, even if the application is denied or withdrawn. However, exceptions exist for certain humanitarian applications, where fee waivers may apply.
Can I get a fee waiver?
Under certain conditions, fees can be waived, particularly for applicants facing financial hardship or for specific humanitarian applications.
How can I find out the latest USCIS fees?
USCIS application fees are subject to change based on legislative decisions and operational costs. For the most accurate and current fee information, applicants should consult directly with USCIS or authorized legal representatives.
2. USCIS Form Categories and General Fee Information
Types of USCIS Forms
The USCIS categorizes its forms into three main types:
- N-Type Forms: These forms are specifically designed for individuals seeking naturalization (the process of becoming a U.S. citizen) and those applying for certificates of citizenship.
- I-Type Forms: This category encompasses a wide range of immigrant petitions, including those for family-based and employment-based visas.
- G-Type Forms: These forms are primarily used for genealogy purposes, such as requesting family history records or historical immigration documents.
The fees associated with each form vary depending on the complexity of the application and the specific purpose of the form. Some applicants may be eligible for fee waivers under certain circumstances, such as if they can demonstrate financial hardship or belong to specific groups like veterans or asylees. It’s crucial to consult the official USCIS guidelines or seek legal advice to determine your eligibility for a fee waiver.
It’s important to emphasize that most USCIS application fees are non-refundable, even if the application is denied or withdrawn. This means that once you submit your application and pay the fee, you cannot get your money back, regardless of the outcome of your application.
Please note that the information provided here is a general overview, and the specific fees for each form can be found in the USCIS Fee Schedule. It’s always recommended to refer to the official USCIS website or consult with an immigration attorney for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
3. USCIS Fees for Citizenship and Naturalization (N-Type Forms)
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has established a fee schedule for various N-type forms, which are used for applications related to citizenship and naturalization. These fees are effective as of April 1, 2024.
- Form N-300, Application to File Declaration of Intention:
- $320
- Certain applicants may be eligible for a Fee Waiver.
- Form N-336, Request for a Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings:
- Standard Fee: $830 (paper filing) or $780 (online filing)
- Reduced Fee: $320 (only if you filed Form N-400 under INA sections 328 or 329 with respect to military service and your application has been denied)
- No Fee: In specific circumstances
- Form N-400, Application for Naturalization:
- Standard Fee: $760 (paper filing) or $710 (online filing)
- Reduced Fee: $380 (for those with documented annual household income not exceeding 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines)
- No Fee: For applicants meeting specific military service requirements
- N-426, Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service
- No Fee
- Form N-470, Application to Preserve Residence for Naturalization Purposes:
- $420
- While some applicants may qualify for a fee waiver, eligibility requirements vary. USCIS recommends reviewing the instructions for Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, to determine if you qualify.
- Form N-565, Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document:
- Standard Fee: $555 (paper filing) or $505 (online filing)
- No Fee: If the previous certificate contained incorrect information due to a USCIS error
- Form N-600, Application for Certificate of Citizenship:
- Standard Fee: $1,385 (paper filing) or $1,335 (online filing)
- No Fee: For current or former members of the U.S. armed forces applying on their own behalf, or for individuals who were adopted for immigration purposes and meet specific criteria
Fee waivers are available for certain forms and situations, but eligibility requirements vary. USCIS recommends reviewing the instructions for Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, to determine if you qualify.
For further information and the most up-to-date details on fees, please refer to the official USCIS website or consult with an immigration professional.
4. USCIS Fees for Immigrant Petitions (I-Type Forms)
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has established fees for various I-type forms, which are used for applications related to immigration benefits. These fees are effective as of April 1, 2024.
Family-Related I-Forms
- Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative:
- $675 (paper filing) or $625 (online filing)
- Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e):
- $675
- Form I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence:
- $750
- Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status:
- $1,440 (for applicants over the age of 14)
- $950 (for applicants under the age of 14 submitting concurrently with the Form I-485 of one parent)
Employment-Related I-Forms
- Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker:
- Varies depending on the visa classification.
- See Appendix A for I-129 fees.
- Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker:
- $715, plus additional fees if applicable.
- Asylum Program Fee: $600 (Regular Petitioner), $0 (Nonprofit), $300 (Small Employer)
- Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status (Employment-Based):
- $1,440 (for applicants over the age of 14)
- $950 (for applicants under the age of 14 submitting concurrently with the Form I-485 of one parent)
- Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization (EAD):
- $520 (paper filing) or $470 (online filing)
- Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service:
- Varies depending on the form for which premium processing is requested.
Humanitarian and Other Specialized I-Forms
- Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal:
- No Fee
- Form I-881, Application for Suspension of Deportation or Special Rule Cancellation of Removal:
- $340 (unless exempt)
- Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card:
- $465 (paper filing) or $415 (online filing)
- No Fee (if the error is on USCIS’s part)
- Form I-131, Application for Travel Document:
- Varies depending on the circumstances.
- Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization:
- No Fee (for specific categories)
Other I-Forms
- Form I-102, Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival-Departure Document:
- $560
- Form I-290B, Notice of Appeal or Motion:
- $800
- Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant:
- $515 (unless exempt)
- Form I-539, Application To Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status:
- $470 (paper filing) or $420 (online filing)
- Form I-824, Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition:
- $590
It’s important to note that some applicants may be eligible for fee waivers for certain forms. The USCIS encourages individuals to review the instructions for Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, to determine their eligibility.
For further information and the most up-to-date details on fees, please refer to the official USCIS Fee Schedule.
5. H-Type Temporary Workers Forms (Form I-129)
These forms are for temporary workers in specialized occupations (H-1B) or temporary agricultural (H-2A) or non-agricultural (H-2B) workers.
Form I-129, Petition for H-1B, H-2A, H-2B Visas:
Fees vary depending on the visa classification and whether the employer is a regular petitioner, a small employer, or a nonprofit.
- H-1B:
- Regular Petitioner: $780 (paper filing) or $730 (online filing), plus additional fees
- Small Employer or Nonprofit: $460 (paper or online filing), plus additional fees if applicable
- H-2A (with named workers):
- Regular Petitioner: $1,090, plus additional fees
- Small Employer or Nonprofit: $545, plus additional fees if applicable
- H-2A (with unnamed workers):
- Regular Petitioner: $530, plus additional fees
- Small Employer or Nonprofit: $460, plus additional fees if applicable
- H-2B (with named workers):
- Regular Petitioner: $1,080, plus additional fees
- Small Employer or Nonprofit: $540, plus additional fees
- H-2B (with unnamed workers):
- Regular Petitioner: $580, plus additional fees
- Small Employer or Nonprofit: $460, plus additional fees
Additional Fees for H-Type Visas:
- Asylum Program Fee:
- Varies depending on the employer type (Regular: $600, Nonprofit: $0, Small Employer: $300)
- Fraud Prevention and Detection Fee:
- $150 for H-2B petitions
- $500 for H-1B petitions (unless exempt)
- Public Law 114-113 Fee:
- $4,000 for H-1B petitions if the employer has 50 or more employees in the U.S. and more than 50% of those employees are in H-1B, L-1A, or L-1B status.
- American Competitiveness and Workforce Improvement Act (ACWIA) Fee:
- $1,500 or $750 for H-1B petitions, depending on the number of workers the petitioner employs.
Form I-539, Application for H-4 Visa:
- Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status (H-4):
- $470 (paper filing) or $420 (online filing)
5. USCIS Fees for Other Forms and Services
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) processes various forms beyond those directly related to citizenship and immigration petitions. These forms and services cater to diverse needs, including genealogical research, adjustment of status, and specific visa categories.
G-Type Genealogy and Records Forms
These forms are designed for individuals seeking information about their family history or requiring historical immigration records.
- Form G-1041, Genealogy Index Search Request:
- $80 (paper filing) or $30 (online filing)
- Form G-1041A, Genealogy Records Request:
- $80 (paper filing) or $30 (online filing)
Adjustment of Status (AOS) Forms
For individuals already residing in the U.S. who wish to become lawful permanent residents, the following forms are relevant.
- Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status:
- $1,440 (for applicants over 14)
- $950 (for applicants under 14 filing with a parent)
E-Type Treaty Traders and Investors Forms
These forms are for treaty traders (E-1) and treaty investors (E-2) who are engaging in substantial trade or investment between their home country and the U.S.
- Form I-129, Petition for E-1/E-2 Treaty Traders and Investors:
- $1,015, plus the Asylum Program Fee ($600 for regular petitioners, $0 for nonprofits, $300 for small employers) and other additional fees
- Form I-539, Application for E-1/E-2 Spouses and Children:
- $470 (paper filing) or $420 (online filing)
O-Type Extraordinary Ability or Achievement Forms
Individuals with extraordinary ability or achievement in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics may use these forms to seek entry into the U.S.
- Form I-129, Petition for O-1 and O-2 Visas:
- The base fee is $1,015, with an additional Asylum Program Fee that varies depending on the petitioner type:
- Regular Petitioners: $600
- Nonprofits: $0
- Small Employers (25 or fewer employees): $300
- Additional fees may also apply.
- The base fee is $1,015, with an additional Asylum Program Fee that varies depending on the petitioner type:
- Form I-539, Application for O-3 Visa:
- $470 (paper filing) or $420 (online filing)
USCIS Biometrics Fees
In addition to the base filing fees, most applicants are required to pay a biometrics fee to cover the costs of fingerprinting and photographing for identity verification. The biometric services fee is $85 for Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. Some applicants may be exempt.
Premium Processing Service
This optional service expedites the processing time for certain petitions but comes with an additional fee. The fee for premium processing varies depending on the form type. Please refer to the official USCIS Fee Schedule (Form G-1055) for the most up-to-date information.
6. Additional USCIS Fees
Beyond the base fees for various forms, USCIS has additional fees for specific services and situations.
- Biometrics Fees: Most applicants are required to pay a biometrics fee to cover the costs of fingerprinting and photographing for identity verification. This fee is typically $85. However, certain categories of applicants, such as asylum seekers, may be exempt from this fee.
- Premium Processing Service: This service expedites the processing time for certain petitions, typically reducing it to 15 calendar days.The fees for premium processing are as follows:
- Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker): $2,805 (paper filing) or $2,805 (online filing)
- Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker): $2,805
- Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status): $1,965 (paper filing) or $1,965 (online filing)
- Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization): $1,685 (paper filing) or $1,685 (online filing)
- Administrative Reviews and Appeals: If you need to appeal a decision made by USCIS, there are fees associated with filing a Notice of Appeal or Motion (Form I-290B). The fee for this form is $800.
It’s important to note that these are just some of the additional fees that may apply depending on your specific circumstances and the forms you are filing. Always refer to the official USCIS website or consult with an immigration attorney for the most accurate and up-to-date information on all applicable fees.
7. FAQs: USCIS Citizenship Application Fees for 2024
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How often do USCIS application fees change?
USCIS fees are subject to change based on legislative decisions and operational costs. There is no set schedule for these changes. To stay updated on the latest fees, it is recommended to check the USCIS website or consult official resources regularly.
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Can I request a fee waiver?
Yes, USCIS offers fee waivers for certain forms and under specific conditions, such as financial hardship or for certain humanitarian applications. You can find the requirements and the specific form (Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver) for requesting a fee waiver on the USCIS website.
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Are USCIS fees refundable if my application is denied?
In most cases, USCIS application fees are non-refundable, even if your application is denied or withdrawn. This is typically stated in the instructions for each form.
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What is the difference between USCIS fees and U.S. Visa fees?
USCIS fees cover the cost of processing various forms related to immigration benefits and naturalization, such as green cards and citizenship applications. U.S. Visa fees, on the other hand, are paid to the U.S. Department of State for processing visa applications for entry into the United States.
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Are there additional costs besides the base USCIS application fee?
Yes, there can be additional costs depending on your specific situation and the forms you are filing. These may include biometrics fees (typically $85), premium processing fees (for expedited processing), and fees for administrative reviews or appeals.
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How can I pay the USCIS application fees?
USCIS accepts various payment methods, including checks, money orders, and credit cards. The specific instructions for payment are usually outlined in the form’s instructions.
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What happens if I submit an incorrect fee?
Submitting an incorrect fee will likely result in your application being rejected. It’s crucial to double-check the required fee amount before submitting your application.
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Do online and paper applications have different fees?
Yes, some forms offer both online and paper filing options, and the fees may differ between the two. Always check the form’s instructions for the correct fee based on your chosen filing method.
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What are the fees for Form N-400, Application for Naturalization?
The fees for Form N-400 vary depending on several factors. The standard fee is $760 for paper filing and $710 for online filing. However, there is a reduced fee of $380 for applicants with lower incomes, and the fee is waived for certain military applicants.
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How much does it cost to replace a naturalization certificate?
The fee for Form N-565, Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document, is $555 for paper filing and $505 for online filing. However, if the need for replacement is due to a USCIS error, there is no fee.
Please note that this FAQ section is based on the reference documents and may not cover all possible questions. For further inquiries, please refer to the official USCIS website or consult with an immigration professional.
8. Conclusion: USCIS Citizenship Application Fees for 2024
In conclusion, understanding the intricacies of USCIS application fees for 2024 is paramount for anyone embarking on the journey toward U.S. citizenship or immigration. This comprehensive guide has aimed to shed light on the various fees associated with different forms and services, providing a roadmap for applicants to navigate the financial aspects of their applications.
However, it’s important to remember that USCIS fees are subject to change, and staying informed about the latest updates is crucial. Always refer to the official USCIS website or consult with an immigration professional for the most accurate and current information.
By being well-prepared and informed about the fees involved, applicants can confidently embark on their immigration journey, ensuring a smoother and more successful experience.