US immigration and nationalization is a subject Americans has become increasingly active in discussing. A recent survey by the Public Religion Research Institute revealed that more Americans support the creation of a pathway that facilitates the naturalization of immigrants.

1. Non-Monetary Barriers
Deter Low-Income
Immigrants from
Applying for
Naturalization
Buhler Thomas Law, P.C.

2. US immigration and nationalization is a subject Americans has become increasingly active in
discussing. A recent survey by the Public Religion Research Institute revealed that more Americans
support the creation of a pathway that facilitates the naturalization of immigrants.
Although 44 percent of senior citizens feel that immigrants threaten American customs and values,
another 58 percent of them said the immigration system ought to allow them to become naturalized
citizens — provided they meet certain requirements. The younger population (respondents ages 18
to 29) had a more welcoming attitude toward immigrants with 68 percent of the age group saying
immigrants strengthen American society.
Despite the positive sentiment among American citizens, however, low-income immigrants are still
hesitant to apply for naturalization.
Non-Monetary Factors Influencing Low-Income Immigrants' Response
The persisting theory among immigration experts is that the increasing cost of applying for
naturalization is the main deterrent for applying for naturalization (the naturalization fee has gone
up from $680 in 2016 to $725 in 2018). A recent study led by Stanford University’s Immigration
Policy Lab supports this theory.

3. After offering fee vouchers covering the cost of naturalization application, the researchers found
that immigrants were 41 percent more likely to proceed and apply for citizenship. A closer look at
the results reveals that immigrants are not just dealing with financial barriers but also other
concerns. Examples are the lack of information and resources, insufficient guidance in answering
application forms, and the worry that legal issues may emerge from their application.
Assistance from Immigration Experts Needed
The office of the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is already addressing the concern
about nationalization being too expensive for immigrants. From 2009, the USCIS has awarded $73
million to various organizations and states to help Green Card holders (immigrants with permanent
residency status) achieve naturalization. This Citizenship and Assimilation Grant Program will
continue until September 30, 2018.
To address the non-financial barriers, permanent residents can seek help from organizations or
immigration law offices. The latter can offer legal advice, help in preparing documentary
requirements, and navigate the complexities of US immigration law.

4. Sources:
https://www.buhlerlawoffice.com/
https://www.prri.org/research/poll-immigration-reform-views-on-
immigrants/#.VvqbfRIrJPU
https://www.us-immigration.com/blog/how-much-does-it-cost-to-apply-for-us-
citizenship/
https://psmag.com/economics/application-fee-naturalization
http://www.pnas.org/content/early/2018/01/09/1714254115
https://www.uscis.gov/about-us/citizenship-and-assimilation-grant-program