N-400 Naturalization
US citizenship
N-400 Naturalization
Permanent residents – also known as green card holders – who wish to become U.S. citizens use Form N-400 to apply for naturalization. This step is critical for anyone who wishes to obtain the full rights and privileges of U.S. citizenship. Learn more about the application process, the required documents and the criteria you must meet to be recognized as a U.S. citizen.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
The path to U.S. citizenship through naturalization is a significant step that raises many specific questions. To help you better understand this process, we have compiled a collection of the most frequently asked questions. Here you will find answers that will assist you in preparing your N-400 application and throughout the naturalization process. If you have further questions, our experts are ready to advise and assist you.
How can I apply for US citizenship?
To apply for U.S. citizenship, you must file an N-400 Application for Naturalization with the USCIS. As part of the application, you must submit the N-400 form as well as supplemental documents proving your continuous permanent residence in the United States.
When can I apply for US citizenship?
If you are a permanent resident and have been married to a U.S. citizen for at least three years, you can apply for U.S. citizenship after three years.
If you are a permanent resident who is NOT married to a U.S. citizen, you can apply for U.S. citizenship after five years.
What steps does the naturalization process involve? The naturalization process comprises several steps:
- Filing Form N-400 Application for Naturalization with the USCIS
- Attendance at your biometrics appointment (you will usually be invited a few weeks after submitting your N-400 application)
- Conclusion of your naturalization interview
- Receive a decision from USCIS on your Form N-400 Application for Naturalization
- Receipt of a notification to take the oath of allegiance
- Taking the oath of allegiance to the United States
What entitles you to US citizenship?
You are eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship if you have been a permanent resident for five years or more, OR if you have been married to a U.S. citizen for at least three years.
During this time, you must not have been outside the United States for a total of 30 months OR have traveled outside the United States for one year or more.
How long will it take to become a US citizen in 2024?
This depends on your region. To check the most current USCIS N-400 application processing times in your region, click here https://egov.uscis.gov/processing-times/. In general, N-400 applications are processed relatively quickly (in about 9 months or less), although processing is usually expedited in election years.
What fees are involved in becoming a US citizen?
The application fee for Form N-400 is $760 if you submit the application in paper form by mail or $710 if you submit the application online through the USCIS portal.
What documents do I need to apply for citizenship?
If you are applying for naturalization based on your marriage to a US citizen, you must submit the following documents, among others:
- Proof that your spouse has been a US citizen for the last three years
- Marriage certificate
- Proof of termination of all previous marriages (either by divorce decree, annulment or death certificate)
- Financial documents from you and your spouse, such as tax returns, bank statements, etc.
- Birth certificates of your children, if applicable
- Criminal record, if applicable
All non-English documents must be submitted together with a certified English translation.
How long do I have to wait after receiving a green card to apply for citizenship?
Generally, green card holders must wait five years after obtaining permanent residency to apply for citizenship. Permanent residents who are married to U.S. citizens may apply for citizenship after three years.
You can file your N-400 application for naturalization 90 days before you complete your five or three years as a permanent resident. You can use this Early Filing Calculator from the USCIS https://www.uscis.gov/forms/uscis-early-filing-calculator to determine the earliest date you can file your application.