USCIS Proposes Significant Fee Increases for Naturalization Applications

USCIS has published a proposed rule that would substantially increase filing fees for naturalization and related applications. If the rule is finalized as proposed, becoming a U.S. citizen could become significantly more expensive, especially for applicants who currently rely on reduced fees or fee waivers.

At this time, these changes are not yet in effect. USCIS is accepting public comments through August 24, 2026, before issuing a final rule.

Proposed Fee Increases

Under the proposed rule, filing fees would increase as follows:

Form	Current Fee	Proposed Fee
Form N-400 (paper filing)	$760	$1,330
Form N-400 (online filing)	$710	$1,280
Form N-336, Request for a Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings (paper)	$830	$1,475
Form N-336 (online)	$780	$1,425

The proposed increases represent several hundred dollars in additional costs for applicants.

Fee Waivers Could Be Largely Eliminated

In addition to higher filing fees, USCIS is proposing to eliminate most fee waivers and reduced-fee options for naturalization and related filings.

Many applicants who currently qualify for financial assistance may be required to pay the full filing fee if the rule is finalized in its current form. This could create a significant financial barrier for eligible permanent residents seeking U.S. citizenship.

What Applicants Should Know

Because this is only a proposed rule, applicants should continue following the current fee schedule unless and until USCIS announces that the new rule has taken effect.

However, individuals who are already eligible to apply for naturalization should consider filing sooner rather than later. Filing before any future effective date could allow eligible applicants to take advantage of the current filing fees and any available fee waiver or reduced-fee options.

Applicants should also monitor future USCIS announcements, as the agency may revise the proposal before publishing a final rule.

Public Comment Period

USCIS is accepting public comments on the proposed rule through August 24, 2026. After reviewing those comments, the agency may adopt the rule as proposed, modify it, or decide not to implement certain changes.

Until a final rule is published and becomes effective, the current filing fees and eligibility requirements remain in place.

Need Help with Your Citizenship Application?

If you are eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship or have questions about your naturalization case, Tran Flores Law can help you understand your options and prepare your application correctly. To schedule a consultation, call Tran Flores Law at (512) 894-9984.