HighLights
  1. DHS proposes sharp increase in US citizenship application fees.
  2. Fee hike could remove existing relief options for low-income.
  3. Indian applicants, a large group, will be significantly affected.

The process of becoming a US citizen can become more expensive in the coming years if a new proposal by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is approved. The plan suggests a sharp increase in application fees for naturalisation and may also remove existing fee relief options. The move, if implemented, will affect many permanent residents, including Indian applicants.

Who Can Become US Citizen?

To apply for US citizenship, a person generally must be at least 18 years old and hold a green card. They must have lived in the US for at least five years continuously, and been physically present in the country for at least 30 months during that time. Applicants must also live in the same state or US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) district for at least three months before applying.

Additionally, they are required to show good moral character, respect for the US Constitution, and remain in the country while their application is processed. Applicants must also pass English language tests and have basic knowledge of US history and government.

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DHS Proposes Sharp Fee Hike

Under the new proposal, the fee for Form N-400, which is used to apply for citizenship, would increase sharply. The fee for paper applications would rise from USD 760 to USD 1,330, an increase of about 75 per cent. For online applications, the fee would go up from USD 710 to USD 1,280, an increase of around 80 per cent.

What Indian Applicants Need To Know

The proposal also plans to remove reduced-fee options and most fee waivers currently available to people with low incomes. If approved, this may make the process harder for students, retirees, and others who depend on financial support. AsIndian applicants form one of the largest groups becoming US citizens, they are expected to be affected by this decision.

In FY 2024, about 49,700 Indians became US citizens, making India the second-largest country of birth among new citizens after Mexico. However, the number of Indians gaining US citizenship has been falling in recent years. According to DHS data, 65,960 Indians became citizens in FY 2022, 59,050 in FY 2023, and 49,700 in FY 2024, marking a decline of nearly 25 per cent in two years.

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Are These Changes Final?

Notably, the changes are not final yet. DHS has opened a 60-day public comment period where people and organisations can share feedback. The government will review all comments before making a final decision. A statement by the Department noted, "The electronic Federal Docket Management System will accept comments prior to midnight ET at the end of that day."

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