DHS Proposes 75% Fee Hike for U.S. Citizenship Applications
Tyunews.com – The Trump administration has introduced a proposed rule that could raise the cost of becoming a U.S. citizen by 75%. Published in the Federal Register, the update would increase the general paper filing fee from $760 to $1,330, adding $570 to the total. Additionally, the fee for requesting reconsideration before an appeals board would climb from $830 to $1,475, a $645 jump or a 77.7% rise.
Waivers and Exemptions
Under the proposed changes, most fee waivers would be removed, though current and former military personnel would still be exempt. The rule emphasizes that existing fees do not fully cover the rising costs of processing naturalization applications, which include enhanced screening and vetting procedures aligned with presidential directives.
Impact on Applicants
The Department of Homeland Security claims the adjustments are necessary to fund the ongoing improvements in the citizenship process. These include thorough background checks, interviews, and civics tests, all part of the lengthy path to naturalization. The rule will take effect at least 60 days after the public comment period concludes.
“This policy aligns with the administration’s stance on making legal immigration more costly and restrictive,” said Rosanna Berardi, an immigration lawyer in Buffalo, New York. “By raising fees, removing waivers, and introducing new vetting layers, they’re not simplifying the system—they’re constructing barriers within it.”
For context, the rule builds on previous efforts to tighten immigration processes. The Trump administration has already expanded vetting for green card holders and citizenship applicants, incorporating social media reviews as part of the evaluation. These measures aim to ensure applicants meet stringent standards of “good moral character” and neighborhood checks.
Related Developments
Immigrant mothers with American-born children are awaiting a decision on birthright citizenship, highlighting ongoing debates about immigration policies. Meanwhile, recent headlines include updates on Iran’s readiness to respond to Trump’s threats, repairs to the Reflecting Pool, and the administration’s claim of a deal with Iran over the Strait of Hormuz.
