It’s important to understand Form N-400 because this is the document that will determine if you’re eligible for U.S. citizenship through naturalization. Knowing the ins and outs of the Application for Naturalization allows you to make informed decisions about your application, like when to apply.
By understanding form N-400 and its requirements, you can decide whether you meet the necessary criteria before you invest time and money in the application process and not after – when it’s too late!
What Is Form N-400?
Form N-400, also known as the Application for Naturalization, is the official document that permanent residents (green card holders) must complete and submit to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) when they are ready to apply for U.S. citizenship through the naturalization process.
When you complete Form N-400, you will be required to provide detailed information about your background before you can be considered for naturalization, including:
- Your personal information, like your name, address, date of birth, etc.
- Information about your residency and physical presence in the United States
- Information about your travel history outside the United States
- Your marital history and information about your children
- Employment and education history
- Information about any memberships in organizations
- Information about your criminal history and moral character
- Agreeing to take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States
You should also be prepared to demonstrate your ability to read, write, and speak in English as well as your knowledge of U.S. history and civics. This will be assessed through the naturalization test, which will be administered as part of your citizenship interview.
Form N-400: The First Step in the Naturalization Process
After submitting Form N-400 along with your supporting documents and any applicable fees, you’ll need to attend a biometrics appointment, which will be followed by the citizenship interview. If you’re approved, you will take the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony and receive your Certificate of Naturalization, officially becoming U.S. citizens.
Be sure to fill out Form N-400 accurately and completely, as any mistakes or omissions can delay the naturalization process or even lead to a denial of the application.
Who Is Eligible to Complete Form N-400?
To be eligible to complete Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, you will need to be a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) and meet the eligibility requirements. These include:
- Being at least 18 years old at the time of filing Form N-400.
- Have held lawful permanent resident status for at least five years (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen).
- Demonstrate continuous residence in the United States for at least five years (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen) before filing the application.
- Show physical presence in the United States for at least 30 months out of the five years (or 18 months out of the three years if married to a U.S. citizen) before filing the application.
- Have lived for at least three months in the state or USCIS district where they apply.
- Be able to read, write, and speak basic English.
- Have knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government (civics).
- Be a person of good moral character
- Demonstrate your attachment to the principles and ideals of the U.S. Constitution.
If you have qualifying military service, you’re the spouse or child of a U.S. citizen, or you meet certain other criteria, you might qualify for an exception or special considerations. Don’t forget to carefully review the eligibility requirements and gather the necessary supporting documents before completing and submitting Form N-400 to USCIS.
How Do You Complete Form N-400?
To complete Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization, follow these steps:
- Gather necessary information: Collect personal details, such as your full legal name, date of birth, Social Security number, A-number (if applicable), current address, and information about your immigration history, employment, and residence.
- Download the form: Visit the USCIS website and download the latest version of the N-400 form. Read the instructions carefully before starting.
- Fill out personal information: Complete the sections on your personal information, including name, date of birth, country of birth, and contact details.
- Provide immigration history: Accurately fill in your immigration history, including your A-number, Green Card details, and any prior applications or petitions.
- Disclose family details: Provide information about your marital history, children, and parents, including their names, dates of birth, and addresses.
- List your residences and employment: Provide a complete list of your residences and employment for the past five years, including dates and addresses.
- Answer eligibility questions: Carefully read and answer the eligibility questions regarding your moral character, criminal history, and commitment to the U.S. Constitution. Be honest and disclose any relevant information.
- Demonstrate English proficiency and civics knowledge: Indicate your readiness to take the English and civics tests, or if you qualify for an exemption based on age, disability, or length of residence.
- Sign and date the form: Review the completed form for accuracy, then sign and date it. If you used an interpreter or preparer, they must also sign in the appropriate sections.
- Include supporting documents: Gather the required supporting documents, such as a copy of your Green Card, passport-style photos, and any applicable fees.
- Submit the application: Mail your completed N-400 form, supporting documents, and fees to the appropriate USCIS address, or submit it online if you’re eligible for e-filing.
When you’re completing Form N-400, don’t forget to be as accurate, honest, and thorough as possible. It’ll help you avoid mistakes, misunderstandings, and requests for further evidence that can cost you time and money.
How Long Does it Take to Become a Citizen After Filing N-400?
After you file Form N-400, the process of becoming a U.S. citizen will typically take several months to a year. Here’s a general timeline:
- Once you file your N-400, the USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) will send you a receipt notice confirming they have received your application.
- Within a few weeks to a few months, you’ll receive a notice for a biometrics appointment, where your fingerprints, photo, and signature will be taken.
- After your biometrics appointment, you’ll receive a notice for your naturalization interview. This may take several months, depending on the USCIS caseload and processing times in your area.
- You’ll attend the interview, where a USCIS officer will review your application and ask questions. You’ll also take the English and civics exams.
- If your application is approved, you’ll receive a notice to attend the Oath of Allegiance ceremony. This may take place on the same day as your interview or a few weeks to months later.
So how long does this process take? From filing to taking the Oath of Allegiance, expect it to take about 6-12 months, though this can vary. You can check the current processing times on the USCIS website for more specific information based on your location.
What Documents Do You Need for Form N-400?
When filing Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization, you’ll need to submit several supporting documents along with your application. The specific documents required may vary depending on your individual circumstances, but generally, you’ll need to include:
- A copy of your Permanent Resident Card (Green Card).
- Evidence of your current marital status, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or death certificate of your spouse.
- Evidence of your spouse’s U.S. citizenship, if applicable.
- Proof of your current legal name, such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or court order for a legal name change.
- Two identical color passport-style photographs taken within 30 days of filing your application.
- A copy of your tax returns or evidence of tax filing for the past five years or three years if married to a U.S. citizen.
- Evidence of your continuous residence in the U.S., such as rent or mortgage payments, utility bills, or employment records.
- If you have a criminal history, you’ll need to provide certified court dispositions, arrest records, and other relevant documents.
- If you’ve ever been in removal proceedings, you’ll need to submit related documents.
- If you’re applying for naturalization based on qualifying military service, you’ll need to provide additional military documents.
- If you’re applying for a fee waiver, you’ll need to submit Form I-912 or a written request along with supporting documentation.
Make sure to carefully read the instructions for Form N-400 and gather all necessary documents before submitting your application. Failing to include required documents may delay the processing of your application or even lead to a denial. If you have any questions about the specific documents you need to include, consult with an immigration attorney or accredited representative.
How Long Is Form N-400 Processing Time?
The processing time for Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization, varies depending on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) field office handling your case and their current workload. Processing times can range from a few months to over a year.
As of June 2023, the average processing time for Form N-400 was around 11-17 months. However, this is just an average, and actual processing times may be shorter or longer depending on the specific circumstances of your case and the field office processing your application.
Several factors can affect the processing time of your N-400 application:
- USCIS caseload: If the USCIS is experiencing a high volume of applications, processing times may be longer.
- Background checks: All applicants must undergo background and security checks, which can extend processing times.
- Requests for Evidence (RFE): If the USCIS requires additional documentation or information to process your application, it will issue an RFE, which can add to the overall processing time.
- Scheduling interviews: The availability of interview appointments at your local USCIS office can impact processing times.
To get a more accurate estimate of the current processing time for your specific case, you can check the USCIS website’s “Check Case Processing Times” tool and enter your form type and field office. Remember that these are estimates and not guarantees, as individual cases may vary.
Mistakes to Avoid When You’re Filling Out Form N-400
When filling out Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that could delay the processing of your application or even lead to a denial. Here are some key mistakes to avoid:
- Providing incomplete or inaccurate information: Make sure to fill out the form completely and accurately. Double-check all information, including spelling, dates, and addresses.
- Failing to meet eligibility requirements: Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements for naturalization, such as continuous residence, physical presence, and good moral character, before applying.
- Not signing the application: The N-400 must be signed by the applicant. Failing to sign the form can result in the application being returned.
- Submitting incorrect fees: Include the correct filing fee with your application. Fees can change, so check the USCIS website for the most up-to-date information.
- Not including required documents: Submit all necessary supporting documents, such as a copy of your Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), with your application.
- Not disclosing criminal history or immigration violations: Be honest about any criminal history or immigration violations. Failing to disclose this information can lead to a denial and potential legal consequences.
- Not updating your address: If you move after filing your N-400, inform the USCIS of your new address within 10 days to ensure you receive all important notices and documents.
- Sending the application to the wrong address: Mail your application to the correct USCIS address based on your eligibility category and the specific USCIS lockbox that serves your area.
- Not preparing for the interview and exams: Study for the English and civics exams and prepare for your naturalization interview to increase your chances of success.
By avoiding these mistakes and carefully reviewing your application before submission, you can help ensure a smoother naturalization process.
Another way to avoid mistakes when you’re filling out Form N-400 is to use FileRight’s do-it-yourself online application assistance. You’ll get an immigration lawyer review to make sure you avoid mistakes that can jeopardize your application’s approval.
