USCIS Proposes Major Naturalization Fee Hike: What Green Card Holders Need to Know

For decades, the path to U.S. citizenship has been seen as a cornerstone of the American dream, a journey that should be accessible to those who contribute to our communities and follow the rules. However, a significant shift in policy is on the horizon. On June 23, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a proposed rule that could drastically change the financial landscape for green card holders seeking naturalization.

If you have been waiting for the "perfect time" to file your N-400 application, this news is your wake-up call. The proposed changes don't just increase costs; they fundamentally alter who can afford to become a citizen. 📢

What are the specific changes?

The headline of this proposal is a massive increase in filing fees for the most common naturalization forms. USCIS is moving toward a "beneficiary-pays" model, arguing that the individuals receiving the benefit of citizenship should cover the full cost of processing their applications.

Here is a breakdown of the proposed fee adjustments for the primary forms involved:

These are not minor adjustments for inflation. For a family of four where both parents and two adult children are eligible for citizenship, the filing fees alone could jump from roughly $3,000 to over $5,300.

Who is affected by this proposal?

While the fee hike affects everyone, the most devastating impact will be felt by low- and middle-income families. For years, USCIS has offered a "reduced fee" option for applicants whose household income fell between 150% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. This proposal seeks to eliminate the reduced fee option entirely.

Furthermore, the DHS is proposing the elimination of fee waivers for both the N-400 and N-336 forms. Historically, these waivers allowed those facing extreme financial hardship to apply for citizenship without paying the filing fee. By removing these protections, the administration is effectively making naturalization a "pay-to-play" system.

The only significant group spared from these increases are military members. Military exemptions for naturalization fees will be retained, acknowledging the service and sacrifice of non-citizen service members.

Why the change?

The Department of Homeland Security argues that this shift is necessary to stabilize USCIS funding. Unlike many other federal agencies, USCIS is primarily fee-funded. In the Federal Register notice (91 FR 37500), the government claims that naturalization is an "inelastic good."

In plain English, this means the government believes that because citizenship is so valuable, people will find a way to pay for it regardless of the cost. They argue that a fee increase will not significantly deter applicants from seeking naturalization. The administration expects this change to generate an estimated $3.6 billion in transfer payments over the next 10 years.

This marks a sharp departure from previous administrations, which often kept naturalization fees lower, subsidized by other application types, to promote civic integration and encourage eligible residents to earn their citizenship.

The bigger picture: Why you must plan as though this will pass

It is important to remember that this is currently a proposed rule, not a final law. However, in the current regulatory environment, you must plan as though these changes will take effect. The government is accepting public comments on this proposal until August 24, 2026. After that date, they will review the feedback and issue a final rule, which typically goes into effect 30 to 60 days later.

If you are eligible for naturalization today, every day you wait is a gamble. Waiting until the end of the year could cost you an additional $600 or more per person. Beyond the financial cost, becoming a citizen provides essential protections that green card holders simply do not have. As we’ve discussed before, even long-term permanent residents can face risks of denaturalization or deportation under certain circumstances. Citizenship is the only way to ensure your status in the U.S. is permanent and irrevocable.

What does this mean for your family?

For many of our clients at Badmus & Associates, this proposal creates a sense of urgency. Naturalization is more than just a piece of paper; it is the right to vote, the ability to sponsor family members more quickly, and the security of a U.S. passport.

• Financial Stress: The elimination of waivers means families must start budgeting now.
• Application Backlogs: We anticipate a surge in filings before the fees increase, which could lead to longer processing times.
• Accessibility: For some, the cost may become a temporary barrier, delaying their ability to participate fully in American civic life.

Stay informed and take action

The comment period is a critical time for the public to voice their concerns. If you believe that citizenship should remain accessible to all, regardless of their income level, you have until August 24, 2026, to submit your comments to the DHS Docket No. USCIS-2026-0265.

However, your primary focus should be your own immigration journey. We strongly recommend that any eligible green card holder files their N-400 application before the final rule is published.

Your "Action Plan" for Summer 2026:

1. Check Your Eligibility: Are you a lawful permanent resident who has held your green card for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen)?
2. Gather Your Documents: Start collecting your travel history, tax records, and residency proofs now to avoid delays.
3. Consult an Expert: Naturalization involves a thorough review of your entire immigration history. Don't risk a denial, and the loss of your filing fee, by making a mistake on your application.

At Badmus & Associates,we understand that these fee hikes are more than just numbers, they represent real hurdles for hard-working people. Our team is here to help you navigate these changes, ensure your application is airtight, and help you cross the finish line to citizenship before the costs skyrocket.

We are here to help

This proposal is a reminder that the immigration landscape is constantly shifting. Our goal is to keep you updated and empowered to make the best decisions for your future. Whether you are worried about the new fees or have questions about your eligibility, contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Don't let a "proposed" change become a "permanent" barrier to your American dream. The time to act is now.

Disclaimer: This blog post is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws and fees are subject to change. Please consult with a qualified immigration attorney regarding your specific case.

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