On August 3, 2020, USCIS published a Final Rule that significantly increases the fee schedule for several applications and petitions. The fees across all classes of applications has increased by a weighted average of 20 percent. The N-400, Application for Naturalization is one such form where the fee is being increased by more than 80%. This could make the legal immigration system inaccessible to millions of people. These applications will have increased fees starting on October 2, 2020.
The American Dream may be beyond reach for many
The financial burden of becoming a U.S. citizen will soon be very high. Online naturalization applications will cost $1170 (paper filings will costs $1,170), as against the current fee of $640. USCIS is also eliminating almost all fee waivers that it previously provided for low-income immigrants. Once the rule goes into effect, almost everyone will have to pay the full fee. Most low-income residents will find it extremely difficult to realize their dream of becoming a US citizen.
If you are eligible to Naturalize and want to become a US Citizen, the time is now!
If you are a US Resident and have been debating when to apply for Citizenship, the time is now! Contrary to popular belief, a Green Card holders may be inadmissible under certain circumstances. If you have strong ties to the US (e.g. children born in the US), the best way to secure your immigration status is to become a US Citizen.
If you would like to apply for Citizenship, but are not sure if you are eligible, contact us today! Sweta Khandelwal is an award winning immigration attorney. She will review your immigration history and will help you realize your dream of becoming a US Citizen if you are eligible. Apply before the fee increases.
