DHS Proposes Steep Naturalization Fee Hike and an End to Fee Waivers
A proposed DHS rule would raise the N-400 citizenship application fee by roughly 75–80% and eliminate the reduced-fee option and fee waivers, with public comments open through August 24, 2026.
What was proposed
On June 23, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security published a proposed rule to sharply raise USCIS fees for naturalization. The paper filing fee for Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) would rise from $760 to $1,330, and the online fee from $710 to $1,280 — increases of roughly 75–80%. The fee for Form N-336 would climb to about $1,475 (paper) and $1,425 (online). The rule would also eliminate the reduced-fee option for lower-income N-400 applicants and end fee waivers for both forms. Current and former U.S. armed forces members would remain exempt.
Rationale and timeline
DHS frames the change under a "beneficiary-pays" principle — that those who receive a service should bear its cost — arguing prior fees were kept artificially low. This is a proposed rule, not final: the public may comment through August 24, 2026 (docket USCIS-2026-0265) before any final version takes effect.
Our analysis: what it means for applicants
- The cost of citizenship could nearly double. Losing the reduced fee and waiver removes the main affordability paths for lower-income applicants.
- Timing may matter. Because it is only proposed, current fees still apply for now; those weighing naturalization may factor in the comment period and eventual effective date.
- Comments are open. Affected individuals and groups can submit input before the deadline.
This is a proposal, not final law, and the details could change. We will follow the rule as it moves toward a final decision.
Source
Original — Federal Register (DHS/USCIS)
This is original commentary based on the source below, not legal advice. Confirm details with the official source.