US Citizenship Cost Guide 2026: Fees, Reductions & Waivers Explained

The cost of becoming a U.S. citizen varies depending on how you file your application. As of 2026, USCIS charges $710 for online filings and $760 for paper submissions. Notably, USCIS no longer accepts checks or money orders for paper filings, requiring applicants to use alternative payment methods. For applicants who face financial hardship, USCIS offers a reduced fee option of $380 for those who meet household income thresholds. In some cases, a full fee waiver may be available, making naturalization accessible to a broader range of applicants regardless of financial circumstances. The most recent major fee update prior to 2026 marked a significant change in the naturalization process cost structure. Applicants are encouraged to verify current fee schedules directly on the USCIS website before submitting, as fees are subject to periodic revision. While this article addresses naturalization (the final step to citizenship), EB-3 green card holders typically must maintain permanent resident status for five years before becoming eligible to apply. Understanding the full cost pipeline from EB-3 petition to citizenship can help applicants plan financially for the entire immigration journey.