The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a proposed rule (RIN 1615-AD08) that would substantially increase the cost of applying for U.S. citizenship and related appeals.
Under the proposal, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) would raise naturalization application fees to as much as $1,330, representing one of the largest increases in recent years.
Key Proposed Fee Changes
The rule outlines the following increases:
- Form N-400 (Naturalization Application)
- $1,330 (paper filing)
- $1,280 (online filing)
- Form N-336 (Appeal of Naturalization Denial)
- $1,475 (paper filing)
- $1,425 (online filing)
These changes represent approximately 75–83% increases compared to current fees.
For context, USCIS most recently adjusted fees in 2024, setting naturalization costs at $760 (paper) and $710 (online), up from the prior $640 fee.
Elimination of Reduced Fees and Fee Waivers
In addition to fee increases, DHS proposes eliminating key affordability measures:
- Reduced fee option ($380) for lower-income applicants would be removed
- Fee waivers for naturalization and appeals would be eliminated entirely
Only current and former U.S. military service members would remain exempt from these fees.
Government’s Rationale
DHS states that the proposed changes are intended to:
- Ensure full cost recovery for adjudicating applications
- Shift toward a “beneficiary-pays” model, where applicants bear the full cost
- Eliminate cross-subsidization from other immigration benefit fees
- Support increased screening, vetting, and adjudication requirements
The agency estimates a significant funding gap under the current fee structure, with projected shortfalls exceeding $600 million annually for naturalization processing.
Broader Policy Context
The proposal comes amid broader immigration policy shifts emphasizing:
- Enhanced screening and vetting requirements
- Increased scrutiny of naturalization eligibility
- Potential efforts to revisit cases involving alleged fraud in the immigration process
DHS indicated that rising operational demands and policy changes have increased the cost of processing citizenship applications.
What’s Next
The proposed rule is subject to a public comment period before it can be finalized.
DHS may:
- Adjust the fee levels based on stakeholder feedback
- Modify implementation timelines
- Incorporate additional policy changes affecting naturalization
Erickson Insights and Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or if you have case-specific questions.