One of the common reasons permanent residents don’t apply for U.S. citizenship – cost. The current fee to file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, is $760. That’s a lot of money, but it’s less expensive than remaining a permanent resident. There are reduced fees available to many. And the cost of citizenship will only get more expensive in the future as U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) raises fees.
Table of ContentsThere are approximately 12.7 million immigrants in the United States who are lawful permanent residents, otherwise known as green card holders. According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, an estimated 9 million permanent residents are eligible to naturalize (become a U.S. citizens). Yet many are trapped in an expensive cycle of green card renewal.
The best way to escape this cycle is to become a U.S. citizen. After naturalizing as a U.S. citizen, you won’t need to pay anymore USCIS fees or file forms. Over a lifetime, that can save you and your family thousands of dollars. In addition, studies have shown that naturalized U.S. citizens generally earn a higher income than permanent residents.
If you are a permanent resident who has lived in the United States for at least five years, you are likely eligible to apply for naturalization. What's more, spouses of U.S. citizens are generally subject to just a three-year requirement. There are several other exceptions to the five-year residency requirement, most of which affect small numbers of immigrants. Military applicants can often apply after just one year of residency. Not sure if you are eligible? You can review the citizenship requirements or start the N-400 eligibility quiz to determine your eligibility.
