Immigration Direct helps individuals handle their own everyday legal immigration matters and learn about applying for U.S. citizenship, regardless of whether they are applying themselves or working with a lawyer. Immigration Direct provides updated information about changes in immigration law in an easy-to-use, plain English online service.

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced its plans to impose a significant increase in the fee to file the application for U.S. citizenship (Form N-400) to take effect on July 30, 2007. Currently, the fee is $400, but it will increase to $675, an increase of 69%.

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced its plans to impose a significant increase in the fee to file the application for U.S. citizenship (Form N-400). Currently, the fee is $400, and estimates for the proposed increase range from a hike to $600 or even $1,000. The agency anticipates that the new fee could go into effect as early as April 2007.

The United States requires all new citizens to take an oath of allegiance to the United States. Part of that oath includes a renunciation of all prior nationality. Some countries, such as Germany, Japan, and Singapore, treat this as an effective renunciation of citizenship and citizens of those countries lose their former citizenship when they become U.S. citizens. Other countries, such as the U.K., France, and Canada, do not recognize the U.S. oath as a renunciation and citizens of those countries may retain their dual citizenship. If you have any questions concerning this issue, you should contact the embassy (in Washington, D.C.) of your native country and request an advisory opinion on the effect of U.S. naturalization on your native citizenship.