[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently proposed changes to the naturalization fee, which would increase the cost of becoming a U.S. citizen. The proposed fee increase is the first in over a decade and would affect hundreds of thousands of legal permanent residents who are currently in the process of applying for U.S. citizenship.

The current naturalization fee is $725, which includes the cost of the application and the biometric fee. The proposed fee increase would raise the cost of naturalization to $760. This increase would make the cost of naturalization more than $35 higher than it is currently.

The proposed fee increase is a significant concern for many legal permanent residents, as it could make it more difficult for them to afford to become U.S. citizens. The naturalization process can already be a long and costly process, and the proposed fee increase would add an additional financial burden for many families.

The USCIS argues that the proposed fee increase is necessary to cover the costs of providing immigration services. However, many advocates argue that the proposed fee increase is excessive and would disproportionately affect low-income immigrants and families. They are also concerned that the proposed fee increase could deter many legal permanent residents from applying for U.S. citizenship, which would have a negative impact on the integration of immigrants into U.S. society.

The proposed fee increase is currently open for public comment and it is important that individuals and organizations that are concerned about the impact of the proposed fee increase make their voices heard. The comment period is open for 60 days and it is important that individuals and organizations take this opportunity to provide feedback on the proposed fee increase.

In conclusion, the proposed changes to the naturalization fee in the U.S. would greatly increase the cost of becoming a U.S. citizen, which could have a negative impact on low-income immigrants and families. Advocates argue that this increase is excessive and could deter many legal permanent residents from applying for U.S. citizenship, which would have a negative impact on the integration of immigrants into U.S. society. It is important that individuals and organizations take the opportunity to provide feedback on the proposed fee increase during the public comment period.

As the proposed changes are not yet implemented, it is important that individuals who are considering applying for U.S. citizenship should do it as soon as possible, before the proposed fee increase goes into effect. This can help to avoid the additional financial burden that the proposed fee increase would bring. So, if you are considering applying for U.S. citizenship, we strongly encourage you to do so as soon as possible.

For assistance in starting your citizenship process, visit https://dominicanosusa.org/citizenship-registration/ or give us a call M-F 10 am to 5 pm at (718) 665-0400!
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