Naturalization Fee Waiver in El Cajon: Free Citizenship Application for Low-Income Applicants
How Iraqi and Syrian refugees in El Cajon can apply for citizenship without paying USCIS fees
Quick Answer
For many Iraqi and Syrian refugee families in El Cajon, the $760 USCIS naturalization fee can be a significant barrier to citizenship. SoCal Immigration Services helps low-income residents of San Diego County's largest refugee community understand and apply for fee waivers that can eliminate or reduce citizenship application costs.
Reviewed for accuracy by
Maria Santos
DOJ Accredited Representative • 15+ years experience
For many Iraqi and Syrian refugee families in El Cajon, the $760 USCIS naturalization fee can be a significant barrier to citizenship. SoCal Immigration Services helps low-income residents of San Diego County's largest refugee community understand and apply for fee waivers that can eliminate or reduce citizenship application costs.
What is the N-400 Fee Waiver?
For families struggling financially, USCIS offers fee waivers using Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver. If approved, you can apply for citizenship at no cost to you.
Who Qualifies for a Fee Waiver in El Cajon?
- •You receive a means-tested government benefit (Medicaid, SNAP/food stamps, SSI, TANF)
- •Your household income is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines
- •You're experiencing financial hardship that prevents you from paying
- •You're the head of household receiving CalFresh or Medi-Cal in California
Income Guidelines for 2026
| Household Size | Annual Income Limit | Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $22,590 | $1,883 |
| 2 people | $30,660 | $2,555 |
| 3 people | $38,730 | $3,228 |
| 4 people | $46,800 | $3,900 |
| 5 people | $54,870 | $4,573 |
| 6 people | $62,940 | $5,245 |
| 7 people | $71,010 | $5,918 |
| 8 people | $79,080 | $6,590 |
Required Documents for Fee Waiver
- •Proof of means-tested benefits (award letter, benefits statement)
- •Tax returns from the most recent year
- •Pay stubs from the last 3 months
- •Bank statements showing account balances
- •Proof of unemployment or disability if applicable
- •Bills showing monthly expenses (rent, utilities, medical)
- •Any documentation of financial hardship
Three Ways to Qualify for Fee Waiver
- 1Means-Tested Benefit
If you receive Medicaid/Medi-Cal, SNAP/CalFresh, SSI, or TANF/CalWORKs, you automatically qualify. Just provide your benefits letter.
- 2Income at or Below 150% Poverty
If your household income is below the guidelines, provide tax returns, pay stubs, and other income proof.
- 3Financial Hardship
Even if income is above 150%, you can qualify by showing extraordinary expenses like medical bills, disability, or job loss.
Special Considerations for Iraqi Refugees in El Cajon
• You may have received Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) or Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA) - these can support your fee waiver request
• Employment challenges due to language barriers or credential recognition issues can be documented as financial hardship
• Large family sizes common in Iraqi families often mean lower per-person income, improving fee waiver eligibility
• We help document these circumstances in culturally appropriate ways
Reduced Fee Option
• Income must be greater than 150% but at or below 200% of poverty guidelines
• The filing fee is reduced to $380 (a $330 savings)
• Use Form I-942, Request for Reduced Fee
• Still requires documentation of income
Why Choose SoCal Immigration Services?
- •Arabic-speaking staff who understand refugee family situations
- •Help gathering and organizing fee waiver documentation
- •Experience with both fee waiver and citizenship applications
- •Complete N-400 preparation included with fee waiver assistance
- •Free consultation to determine your eligibility
- •Culturally sensitive service for Iraqi and Syrian communities
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Submitting incomplete Form I-912 without required documentation
- •Not including income from all household members
- •Failing to document all expenses for hardship claims
- •Submitting outdated benefits verification letters
- •Not checking if biometrics fee is also waived
- •Giving up after an initial denial without requesting review
FAQFrequently Asked Questions
Q:Can refugees apply for citizenship fee waivers?
A: Yes! Former refugees who have become permanent residents (green card holders) can absolutely request fee waivers when applying for citizenship. Many refugees qualify due to income levels or receipt of government benefits.
Q:Will using a fee waiver affect my citizenship application?
A: No, requesting a fee waiver will not negatively impact your citizenship application. USCIS specifically provides this option for those who cannot afford the fee, and using it is not held against you.
Q:How long does fee waiver approval take?
A: USCIS typically processes the fee waiver as part of your N-400 application. If approved, your application proceeds normally. If denied, you'll receive notice and can either pay the fee, provide additional evidence, or request review.
Q:What if my fee waiver is denied?
A: You can submit additional documentation supporting your request, pay the regular fee to continue your application, or wait and reapply when circumstances change. We help you respond to denials effectively.
Q:Do I need to apply for the fee waiver separately?
A: No, you submit Form I-912 (fee waiver request) together with your N-400 (citizenship application). They are processed together.
Q:Can I get help with the civics test too?
A: Yes! Our services include citizenship interview preparation, civics test study help in Arabic and English, and guidance on the English language requirement and any exemptions you may qualify for.
Don't Let Fees Stop Your Citizenship Dream
Our Arabic-speaking team in Garden Grove helps El Cajon families apply for citizenship with fee waivers. Schedule a free consultation to see if you qualify.
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