US Citizenship, Green Card Paths Face Heavier Costs, Longer Delays

The journey to American citizenship and permanent residency is becoming significantly more challenging and expensive in 2026, with new policies and mounting backlogs creating substantial hurdles for immigrants.

Mounting Backlogs and Enhanced Scrutiny

If you have an immigration application pending with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), you're likely experiencing longer waits. The agency is currently grappling with a staggering backlog of over 11.6 million pending cases across various application types, including green cards, work permits, and citizenship. This isn't just an administrative headache; it means real people are living in legal limbo, facing uncertainty about their future.

This growing backlog stems from several factors, including staffing reductions at USCIS, expanded security checks, and an increase in Requests for Evidence (RFEs) that add months to processing times. For instance, Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) now often have a reduced validity period of just 18 months, forcing more frequent and costly renewals. New mandatory security reviews, which can include deep-dive audits of social media history and private financial records, are also contributing to delays, even for applicants with clean records.

The Rising Price of Belonging

Beyond the delays, the financial cost of securing your place in the U.S. is also set to climb. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed one of the largest citizenship fee increases in recent history. The filing fee for Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization, could jump from $760 to approximately $1,330 for paper filings, and from $710 to about $1,280 for online submissions. This proposal also aims to eliminate most reduced-fee options and fee waivers, making citizenship less accessible for lower-income families.

Adding to the complexity, USCIS recently issued a policy memorandum reiterating that 'adjustment of status'—the process of applying for a green card from within the U.S.—is considered an 'extraordinary relief.' This means that, except in extraordinary circumstances, applicants seeking a green card while in the U.S. may be required to return to their home country for consular processing. USCIS Spokesman Zach Kahler stated, "We're returning to the original intent of the law to ensure aliens navigate our nation's immigration system properly. From now on, an alien who is in the U.S. temporarily and wants a Green Card must return to their home country to apply, except in extraordinary circumstances." This shift could add significant travel costs and logistical challenges for many.

Impact on Egyptian American Families

These changes directly affect Egyptian American families and other Arabic-speaking immigrants who are navigating the complex U.S. immigration system. The increased fees for naturalization mean a greater financial burden for those seeking to become full citizens, impacting family budgets and long-term planning. For many, "Citizenship represents something more than a legal status. It represents belonging. It represents security. It represents the moment when the country they chose finally chooses them in return," as highlighted by a recent report on the proposed fee hikes. The longer processing times and stricter adjustment of status policies can also prolong family separations and create immense stress.

Practical Next Steps for Applicants

Given these evolving challenges, being proactive is more critical than ever. If you have a pending application or plan to file soon, consider submitting your forms as early as possible, especially for renewals like EADs, to account for potential delays. Always keep all your documents meticulously organized and respond promptly to any USCIS requests for information. It's also wise to consult with an immigration attorney to understand how these specific policy changes might impact your individual case and to explore all available legal strategies. Staying informed and prepared can help you navigate these new hurdles effectively.

The landscape of U.S. immigration is clearly shifting towards more stringent processes and higher costs. Staying vigilant and seeking expert guidance will be key for anyone on the path to a green card or citizenship in the coming months.