Cost of Citizenship

Some open-borders advocates have suggested that current fees associated with becoming a U.S. citizen are exorbitant and place too high a burden on applicants. However, when compared to typical daily expenses incurred by Americans, it becomes clear that the price of U.S. citizenship is quite low.

To file Declaration of Intent to apply for U.S. Citizenship
$235

Request hearing on decision on naturalization application
$605

Naturalization (to become a U.S. citizen) through service in the U.S. armed forces
No fee

Naturalization for all others, including filing and biotmetric fees
$675

Preserve residence for naturalization purposes
$305

Replace Naturalization/Citizenship Certificate
$380

Recognition of U.S. citizenship for biological child
$460

Recognition of U.S. citizenship for adopted child
$420

SOURCE: USCIS Fee Schedule; U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services* Effective July 30, 2007


In contrast, what does it cost the average American household to live?

Typical Annual Expense Items
2004*

Number of households (in thousands)
116,282

Income before taxes
$54,453

Averages:

Age of referrence person
48.5

Average annual expenditures
$43,395

FOOD
$5,781

Food at home
$3,347

- Cereals and bakery products
$461

- Meats, poultry, fish and eggs
$880

- Dairy products
$371

- Fruits and vegetables
$561

- Other food at home
$1,075

Food away from home
$2,434

Alcoholic beverages
$459

HOUSING
$13,918

- Shelter
$7,998

- Utilities, fuels, and public services
$2,927

- Household operations
$753

- Housekeeping supplies
$594

- Household furnishings and equipment
$1,646

Apparel and services
$1,816

TRANSPORTATION
$7,801

- Vehicle purchases (net outlay)
$3,397

- Gasoline and motor oil
$1,598

- Other vehicle expenses
$2,365

- Public transportation
$441

Healthcare
$2,574

Entertainment
$2,218

Personal care products and services
$581

Reading
$130

Education
$905

Tobacco products and smoking supplies
$288

Miscellaneous
$690

Cash contributions
$1,408

PERSONAL INSURANCE AND PENSIONS
$4,823

- Life and other personal insurance
$390

- Pensions and Social Security
$4,433

*SOURCE: Consumer Expenditures in 2004; U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, April 2006