Naturalization Fees and Kids

Kids 8–12 · Explainer · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What Is the Naturalization Fee for Kids?

Naturalization is the official process where someone becomes a U.S. citizen, and the government charges a fee to cover the costs involved with processing applications. When it comes to kids, especially those under 18 years old, the naturalization fee often works differently than for adults. Many children applying with their parents can have reduced fees or sometimes no fee at all. This is because the government recognizes that citizenship for children is often connected to their parents’ applications.

For example, if a 10-year-old child is applying for citizenship at the same time as their parents, the child might not have to pay the full fee or any fee depending on current rules. The naturalization fee covers services like reviewing paperwork, conducting background checks, scheduling interviews, and holding citizenship tests if needed.

All naturalization fees are paid to USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services), the federal agency handling citizenship. Parents and educators should know that these fees are part of the overall citizenship process and can change over time. It’s important to check the latest USCIS fee information before applying to avoid surprises.

How Does the Naturalization Fee Work for Kids? (With a Hypothetical Example)

To understand how naturalization fees work for kids, imagine a family where both parents want to become U.S. citizens, and they want their 12-year-old child to become a citizen too. The parents fill out Form N-400 and pay the full fee, which currently is about $725 per adult (this includes the $640 application fee plus a $85 biometric fee for fingerprints and photos).

For the 12-year-old, the rules are different. Since the child is under 18 and applying together with the parents, the child might not have to pay the $725 fee. Instead, the child may only pay a smaller fee or no fee at all, depending on the family’s situation and current USCIS policies. For example, USCIS may waive the fee for children applying for citizenship automatically when their parents naturalize.

If the child applies for naturalization separately later on—say as a young adult—the child would have to pay the full adult fee. This example shows why families should carefully review when and how children apply for citizenship and what fees apply at each stage.

Why Does the Naturalization Fee Matter for Kids and Their Families?

Naturalization fees are important because they represent a real cost families must prepare for when seeking citizenship. For many families, the fee amount can affect when and how they apply for citizenship for their children. Understanding this helps parents plan finances and timelines better.

For kids, becoming a citizen opens many doors, including the right to vote (once they turn 18), eligibility for certain scholarships, and easier travel with a U.S. passport. Knowing that there is a fee involved also helps kids understand that citizenship is a serious and valuable status that requires effort and money—just like paying for other important things, such as school supplies or sports activities.

Parents and teachers can explain to kids that the fee pays for government workers who process applications and help families become citizens. This shared understanding helps kids feel involved and invested in the citizenship journey. It also encourages families to seek fee waivers or financial help if they need it, so no one misses out due to cost.

What Other Terms Are Often Confused with Naturalization Fees for Kids?

Many people confuse the naturalization fee with other fees related to immigration or citizenship, which can cause confusion or mistakes when applying:

• Green Card Fees: These fees are for applying to become a permanent resident (a green card holder), which is different from becoming a citizen. Green card fees can be separate and sometimes more expensive.
• Petition Fees: Some parents file “petitions” to help their children or relatives immigrate, which involve different forms and fees.
• Application Fees for Other Visas: Work, student, or travel visas have their own fees unrelated to naturalization.
• Biometric Fees: This is a smaller part of the total naturalization fee covering fingerprinting and photographs.
• Fee Waivers: Some families qualify to pay less or no fee if their income is low or they meet other criteria.

Knowing these differences helps parents avoid paying the wrong fee and helps them understand the complete citizenship process better.

How Can Parents and Teachers Help Kids Understand Naturalization Fees?

Parents and teachers play a key role in helping kids understand citizenship costs in simple, relatable terms:

• Compare the naturalization fee to familiar expenses, like buying a school field trip ticket or paying for a library card.
• Explain that the fee pays for helpers who check paperwork and make sure the family can become citizens.
• Use clear examples: "If it costs this much for Mommy and Daddy, sometimes kids don’t have to pay as much or anything at all."
• Encourage kids to ask questions and share feelings about the process.
• Explore if the family can apply for a fee waiver, and explain that this means the government might not ask for money if the family needs help.

Teachers can also use classroom discussions or civics lessons to explain naturalization and fees, using Explaining Naturalization to Kids materials or creating role-plays to make the process real and understandable.

What Should Families Do Next to Learn About Naturalization Fees for Kids?

Families ready to apply for citizenship for kids should take these concrete steps:

1. Check the current naturalization fees on the official USCIS website, focusing on sections about children and fee waivers.
2. Download and carefully read Form N-400 instructions, which explain fees and exceptions.
3. Gather all required documents for the child’s application, such as birth certificates, green cards, and parents’ citizenship papers.
4. Determine if the family qualifies for a fee waiver by reviewing income guidelines and completing Form I-912 if needed.
5. Contact a trusted adult, immigration counselor, or legal aid organization for help with complicated questions.
6. Submit the application with the correct fee or fee waiver request to avoid delays.
7. Prepare the child for the naturalization interview and, if applicable, the citizenship test.

By following these steps, families can prepare thoroughly, save money if eligible, and make the citizenship process smoother for their children.

How Does Naturalization for Kids Differ From Young Adults or Adults?

Naturalization rules for kids differ from those for adults in several important ways:

• Children under 18 often become citizens automatically when their parents naturalize, meaning they don’t always need to apply separately or pay fees.
• Kids applying on their own (for example, after turning 18) must pay the full adult fee and complete the entire application process, including tests and interviews.
• Young adults between 18 and 20 may face different rules, sometimes qualifying for simpler procedures or reduced fees, but usually pay the same naturalization fee as adults.
• Parents should understand these differences to time applications well and save money.

Explaining these distinctions to kids helps them understand why some siblings might become citizens earlier or with less hassle and prepares them for their own citizenship journey when they’re older. Resources like Naturalization for Young Adults in the USA and Naturalization Tips for Parents to Support Their Children can provide helpful guidance.

Frequently asked questions

Are there any naturalization fee discounts or waivers for kids?

Yes, some children can get a fee waiver or pay a reduced fee if the family’s income is low or if they apply with parents who are naturalizing. Checking USCIS rules and filling out a fee waiver form can help.

Do all kids have to pay the naturalization fee?

No, children under 18 applying with their parents usually pay no fee or a smaller fee. Kids applying on their own as adults must pay the full fee.

Can schools help kids understand naturalization fees?

Yes, teachers can use simple examples and discussions to explain fees, making the citizenship process easier for kids to understand.

What is the difference between a green card fee and a naturalization fee?

A green card fee is for applying to become a permanent resident, while a naturalization fee is for becoming a U.S. citizen. They are separate steps with different costs.

Where can families find the most up-to-date naturalization fee information?

The official USCIS website always has the latest fee information, forms, and instructions for naturalization, including for children and fee waivers.

What should families do if they cannot afford the naturalization fee?

Families can apply for a fee waiver by submitting Form I-912 with proof of income or hardship. USCIS reviews requests and may reduce or waive the fee to help ensure everyone can apply.