11/22/07 Update -The Dept of Homeland Security (DHS) failed to prepare for a massive influx of applications for U.S. citizenship and other immigration benefits this summer, prompting complaints that several hundred thousand people likely will not be granted citizenship in time to cast ballots in the 2008 presidential election.
This summer, immigrants rushed to beat drastic fee increases for naturalization, legal residency, work permits, international adoptions and a host of other immigration benefits.
Citizenship cases typically took about seven months to complete. Now, immigration officials can take five months or more just to acknowledge receipt of applications from parts of the country and will take 16 to 18 months on average to process applications filed after June 1.
Such a timeline would push many prospective citizens well past voter-registration deadlines for the 2008 primaries and the general elections.
Earlier this year I reported -
If you have your green card for 5 years or more (3 years or more for someone married to U.S. citizen), it is time to become an U.S. citizen!
You'll save $275 before July 30.
Remember, by becoming an U.S. citizen, you'll save more in long run. For example, you don't have to renew your green card every ten years.
Finally, if you need a proof of U.S. citizenship for any reasons; you'll save time & money by applying for a U.S. Passport ($97 and 10 - 12 weeks) instead.
Starting July 30 2007
- The fee for Naturalization (N-400) increases from $400 to $675.
- The fee to renew or replace Permanent Residence Card (I-90) increases from $260 to $370.
- The fee to apply for Certificate of Citizenship (N-600) increases from $255 to $460.
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