Becoming a U.S. citizen offers numerous advantages to those who hold it. Despite the challenges of the process, many individuals embark on this journey daily, aspiring to live legally as American citizens. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the agency responsible for overseeing the naturalization process, which allows individuals to acquire U.S. citizenship.
Periodically, USCIS updates the fees associated with the forms required for obtaining this important document. However, some individuals may qualify for an exemption from these fees.Foreign members of the U.S. Armed Forces have the opportunity to apply for this process without incurring any fees. The government, through USCIS, offers a fee waiver for certain applicants, ensuring that they can pursue citizenship without financial burden.
Eligibility Criteria for This Policy
By taking advantage of these exemptions, eligible individuals can work toward becoming U.S. citizens without the worry of additional costs.The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Seal is displayed on a mobile phone screen for an illustrative photograph. Captured in Krakow, Poland, on February 2, 2023. Photo by Beata Zawrzel / NurPhoto via Getty Images.
If you’re interested in obtaining this benefit, you must meet the following criteria:
- The applicant, spouse, child, and parent (if under 21 years old or disabled), or sibling (under 21 years old living with the applicant) must currently receive benefits based on verified economic resources.
- The household income is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines at the time of filing the petition.
- The applicant is experiencing extreme financial hardship that prevents them from paying the filing fee, including unexpected medical expenses or emergencies.
How to Apply for Naturalization Without Paying a Fee?
Taking the first step towards your immigration journey involves completing the most recent version of the Form I-912. Alternatively, you can submit a detailed letter, providing all necessary information and supporting evidence to demonstrate your eligibility under one of the three specified criteria.
You can easily download the I-912 form online from the official USCIS website. It’s crucial to send this form along with your naturalization application (N-400), which is also available on the same site.
Essential Supporting Evidence
In addition to the forms, you’ll need to include several pieces of supporting evidence for both formats. This includes:
- Proof of income
- Verification of assets
- Documentation of expenses
- An explanation of any mitigating circumstances
- A photocopy of both sides of your permanent resident card
Once you’ve gathered all the necessary documentation, it’s time to mail everything to the address specified by USCIS. The exact address will depend on your place of residence, so be sure to verify it before sending your application. Once the information has been reviewed, the agency will notify you if there is a need to collect biometric data.
Next Steps in the Naturalization Process
The following step is to wait for a scheduled interview to complete the naturalization process. Finally, the agency will send a notification of decision. If your application is approved, the process will conclude with a ceremony where you will take the Oath of Allegiance. During this ceremony, you will recite a pledge that commits you to being a responsible U.S. citizen.
The documents are submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
USCIS Supports Your Path to Citizenship
Since this is a process that requires time and careful attention to ensure a positive outcome, USCIS offers a variety of resources to assist you with your naturalization application:
- Guidance on completing forms accurately
- Information on necessary documents
- Support for preparing for the interview and the Oath of Allegiance