How to Apply for U.S. Citizenship Without Paying Any Dollars

How much does it cost to file Form N-400?

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) set the cost of the paper filing at US$760. Meanwhile, electronic submission of the N-400 costs US$710.

Additionally, there is a reduced fee of US$380. This applies to individuals whose family income does not exceed 400% of federal poverty guidelines, according to USCIS.

Who can file the process without paying anything?

People who meet certain military service conditions under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) do not pay any fees. They can submit the form by mail or online, according to USCIS.

On the other hand, those who do not meet that condition but need a complete exemption must use another form. That document is the I-912, designed specifically to request fee waiver.

Therefore, the I-912 must be sent together with the N-400. Documentation must also be attached to support the applicant’s financial situation.

What are the three valid reasons to request the waiver?

USCIS recognizes three main pathways to justify a fee waiver. The first applies to those who receive means-tested public benefits.

These benefits include Medicaid, SNAP, TANF or SSI. In these cases, recent documentation must be presented showing the beneficiary’s name and the agency providing the assistance.

The second pathway is linked to household income. This option applies when income is equal to or less than 150% of federal poverty guidelines.

To verify this, the applicant can provide tax returns or pay stubs. W-2 forms or other employment documentation also work.

The third alternative covers cases of severe economic hardship. Here, income may exceed the previous limit, but the reason for the inability to pay must be explained.

Accepted reasons include recent job loss or reduced work hours. Health problems and eviction cases are also considered, among others.

What information does Form I-912 request?

The I-912 collects data about the applicant and their current immigration status. It also requests information about household members and their income.

It also solicits details about public benefits received, available assets, and household expenses. Finally, it asks for a summary of the applicant’s financial obligations.

Payment Options for the N-400 Process

Option	Cost	Main Requirement
Paper filing	US$760	No special condition
Online filing	US$710	No special condition
Reduced fee	US$380	Income up to 400% of federal poverty
Complete waiver (military)	US$0	Meet conditions under the INA