The USCIS N-400 form, officially known as the Application for Naturalization, is a critical document for individuals seeking to become U.S. citizens through the naturalization process. This form is the first step in a journey towards citizenship, requiring detailed information about the applicant's background, residence, and character. For those ready to pursue the American dream of citizenship, completing this form accurately is essential. Click the button below to begin filling out your form today.
The journey to becoming a U.S. citizen is a path filled with steps that signify commitment, resilience, and a longing for new beginnings. At the heart of this pivotal journey lies the USCIS N-400 form, a key component in the naturalization process. This form is not merely paperwork but a gateway to opportunities, rights, and responsibilities that come with American citizenship. Applicants find themselves embarking on a meticulous process that demands thoroughness in completion and accuracy in personal history and documentation. Covering everything from basic bio-data to extensive questions about background, character, and allegiance, the N-400 form is designed to assess eligibility for citizenship in a comprehensive manner. Ensuring correct completion and timely submission of this form, accompanied by all necessary documents, is crucial for applicants, as it paves the way towards the coveted citizenship interview and, ultimately, naturalization. As daunting as it may seem, understanding and navigating the intricacies of the USCIS N-400 form is a crucial step in achieving the American Dream.
Application for Naturalization
USCIS
Department of Homeland Security
Form N-400
OMB No. 1615-0052
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Expires 09/30/2022
Date Stamp
For
Use
Only
Remarks
Receipt
Action Block
►START HERE - Type or print in black ink. Type or print "N/A" if an item is not applicable or the answer is none, unless otherwise indicated. Failure to answer all of the questions may delay U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) processing your Form N-400. NOTE: You must complete Parts 1. - 15.
If your biological or legal adoptive mother or father is a U.S. citizen by birth, or was naturalized before you reached your 18th birthday, you may already be a U.S. citizen. Before you consider filing this application, please visit the USCIS Website at www.uscis.gov for more information on this topic and to review the instructions for Form N-600, Application for Certificate of Citizenship, and Form N-600K, Application for Citizenship and Issuance of Certificate Under Section 322.
NOTE: Are either of your parents a United States citizen? If you answer “Yes,” then complete Part 6. Information About Your Parents as part of this application. If you answer “No,” then skip Part 6. and go to Part 7. Biographic Information.
Part 1. Information About Your Eligibility (Select only one box or your
Form N-400 may be delayed)
1.You are at least 18 years of age and:
Enter Your 9 Digit A-Number:
► A-
A.
B.
C.
Have been a lawful permanent resident of the United States for at least 5 years.
Have been a lawful permanent resident of the United States for at least 3 years. In addition, you have been married to and living with the same U.S. citizen spouse for the last 3 years, and your spouse has been a U.S. citizen for the last 3 years at the time you filed your Form N-400.
Are a lawful permanent resident of the United States and you are the spouse of a U.S. citizen and your U.S. citizen spouse is regularly engaged in specified employment abroad. (See the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) section 319(b).) If your residential address is outside the United States and you are filing under Section 319(b), select the USCIS Field Office from the list below where you would like to have your naturalization interview:
D.
E.
Are applying on the basis of qualifying military service. Other (Explain):
Part 2. Information About You (Person applying for naturalization)
1.Your Current Legal Name (do not provide a nickname)
Family Name (Last Name)
Given Name (First Name)
Middle Name (if applicable)
2.Your Name Exactly As It Appears on Your Permanent Resident Card (if applicable)
Form N-400 Edition 09/17/19
Page 1 of 20
Part 2. Information About You (Person applying for naturalization) (continued)
A-
3.Other Names You Have Used Since Birth (include nicknames, aliases, and maiden name, if applicable)
4.Name Change (Optional)
Read the Form N-400 Instructions before you decide whether or not you would like to legally change your name.
Would you like to legally change your name?
Yes
If you answered ''Yes," type or print the new name you would like to use in the spaces provided below.
No
5.
U.S. Social Security Number (if applicable)
6. USCIS Online Account Number (if any)
►
7.
Gender
8.
Date of Birth
9.
Date You Became a Lawful
Male
Female
(mm/dd/yyyy)
Permanent Resident (mm/dd/yyyy)
10.
Country of Birth
11. Country of Citizenship or Nationality
12.Do you have a physical or developmental disability or mental impairment that prevents you from demonstrating your knowledge and understanding of the English language and/or civics requirements for naturalization?
If you answered "Yes," submit a completed Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions, when you file your Form N-400.
13.Exemptions from the English Language Test
A.Are you 50 years of age or older and have you lived in the United States as a lawful permanent resident for periods totaling at least 20 years at the time you file your Form N-400?
B.Are you 55 years of age or older and have you lived in the United States as a lawful permanent resident for periods totaling at least 15 years at the time you file your Form N-400?
C.Are you 65 years of age or older and have you lived in the United States as a lawful permanent resident for periods totaling at least 20 years at the time you file your Form N-400? (If you meet this requirement, you will also be given a simplified version of the civics test.)
Part 3. Accommodations for Individuals With Disabilities and/or Impairments
NOTE: Read the information in the Form N-400 Instructions before completing this part.
1.
Are you requesting an accommodation because of your disabilities and/or impairments?
If you answered "Yes," select any applicable box.
I am deaf or hard of hearing and request the following accommodation. (If you are requesting a sign-language interpreter, indicate for which language (for example, American Sign Language).)
I am blind or have low vision and request the following accommodation:
Page 2 of 20
Part 3. Accommodations for Individuals With Disabilities and/or Impairments (continued)
I have another type of disability and/or impairment (for example, use a wheelchair). (Describe the nature of your disability and/or impairment and the accommodation you are requesting.)
Part 4. Information to Contact You
Daytime Telephone Number
2.
Work Telephone Number (if any)
3.
4.
Evening Telephone Number
Mobile Telephone Number (if any)
5.Email Address (if any)
Part 5. Information About Your Residence
1.Where have you lived during the last five years? Provide your most recent residence and then list every location where you have lived during the last five years. If you need extra space, use additional sheets of paper.
A.Current Physical Address
Street Number and Name
Apt.
Ste. Flr. Number
City or Town
County
State
ZIP Code + 4
-
Province or Region
Postal Code
Country
(foreign address only)
Dates of
From (mm/dd/yyyy)
To (mm/dd/yyyy)
Residence
(USPS ZIP Code Lookup)
B.Current Mailing Address (if different from the address above) In Care Of Name (if any)
Page 3 of 20
Part 5. Information About Your Residence (continued)
C.Physical Address 2
D.Physical Address 3
E.Physical Address 4
Part 6. Information About Your Parents
If neither one of your parents is a United States citizen, then skip this part and go to Part 7.
Were your parents married before your 18th birthday?
Information About Your Mother
2.Is your mother a U.S. citizen?
If you answered "Yes," complete the following information. If you answered "No," go to Item Number 3.
Page 4 of 20
Part 6. Information About Your Parents (continued)
A.Current Legal Name of U.S. Citizen Mother
Mother's Country of Birth
C. Mother's Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
Date Mother Became a U.S. Citizen
E. Mother's A-Number
(if known) (mm/dd/yyyy)
(if any)
Information About Your Father
3.Is your father a U.S. citizen?
If you answered ''Yes," complete the information below. If you answered "No," go to Part 7.
Yes No
A.Current Legal Name of U.S. Citizen Father
Father's Country of Birth
C. Father's Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
Date Father Became a U.S. Citizen
E. Father's A-Number
Part 7. Biographic Information
NOTE: USCIS requires you to complete the categories below to conduct background checks. (See the Form N-400 Instructions for more information.)
1.Ethnicity (Select only one box)
Hispanic or Latino
Not Hispanic or Latino
2.Race (Select all applicable boxes)
White
Asian
Black or
American Indian
African American
or Alaska Native
Height Feet
Inches
4. Weight
Pounds
5.Eye color (Select only one box)
Black Blue Brown Gray Green Hazel
6.Hair color (Select only one box)
Bald
Black
Blond
Brown
Gray
Red
(No hair)
Native Hawaiian or
Other Pacific Islander
Maroon Pink Unknown/ Other
Sandy White Unknown/ Other
Page 5 of 20
Part 8. Information About Your Employment and Schools You Attended
List where you have worked or attended school full time or part time during the last five years. Provide information for the complete time period. Include all military, police, and/or intelligence service. Begin by providing information about your most recent or current employment, studies, or unemployment (if applicable). Provide the locations and dates where you worked, were self-employed, were unemployed, or have studied for the last five years. If you worked for yourself, type or print "self-employed." If you were unemployed, type or print "unemployed." If you need extra space, use additional sheets of paper.
1.Employer or School Name
Date From (mm/dd/yyyy)
Date To (mm/dd/yyyy)
Your Occupation
2.Employer or School Name
3.Employer or School Name
Page 6 of 20
Part 9. Time Outside the United States
1.How many total days (24 hours or longer) did you spend outside the United States during the last 5 years?
days
How many trips of 24 hours or longer have you taken outside the United States during the last 5 years?
trips
3.List below all the trips of 24 hours or longer that you have taken outside the United States during the last 5 years. Start with your most recent trip and work backwards. If you need extra space, use additional sheets of paper.
Date You Left the
Date You Returned
Did Trip Last
Countries to
Total Days
United States
to the United States
6 Months or
Which You
Outside the
More?
Traveled
Part 10. Information About Your Marital History
1.What is your current marital status?
Single, Never Married
Married
Divorced
Widowed
Separated
Marriage Annulled
If you are single and have never married, go to Part 11.
2.If you are married, is your spouse a current member of the U.S. armed forces?
3.How many times have you been married (including annulled marriages, marriages to other people, and marriages to the same person)?
4.If you are married now, provide the following information about your current spouse.
A.Current Spouse's Legal Name
B.Current Spouse's Previous Legal Name
C.Other Names Used by Current Spouse (include nicknames, aliases, and maiden name, if applicable)
D.Current Spouse's Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
E.Date You Entered into Marriage with Current Spouse (mm/dd/yyyy)
Page 7 of 20
Part 10. Information About Your Marital History (continued)
F.Current Spouse's Present Home Address Street Number and Name
Apt. Ste. Flr. Number
G.Current Spouse's Current Employer or Company
5.Is your current spouse a U.S. citizen?
If you answered ''Yes," answer Item Number 6. If you answered ''No," go to Item Number 7.
6.If your current spouse is a U.S. citizen, complete the following information.
A.When did your current spouse become a U.S. citizen?
At Birth - Go to Item Number 8.
Other - Complete the following information.
B.Date Your Current Spouse Became a U.S. Citizen (mm/dd/yyyy)
7.If your current spouse is not a U.S. citizen, complete the following information.
A. Current Spouse's Country of Citizenship or Nationality B. Current Spouse's A-Number (if any)
►A-
C.Current Spouse's Immigration Status
Lawful Permanent Resident
Other (Explain):
8.How many times has your current spouse been married (including annulled marriages, marriages to other people, and marriages to the same person)? If your current spouse has been married before, provide the following information about your current spouse's prior spouse.
If your current spouse has had more than one previous marriage, provide that information on additional sheets of paper.
A.Legal Name of My Current Spouse's Prior Spouse
B.Immigration Status of My Current Spouse's Prior Spouse (if known)
U.S. Citizen
C.Date of Birth of My Current Spouse's D. Country of Birth of My Current Spouse's
Prior Spouse (mm/dd/yyyy)
Prior Spouse
E.Country of Citizenship or Nationality of My Current Spouse's Prior Spouse
Page 8 of 20
F.My Current Spouse's Date of Marriage G. Date My Current Spouse's Marriage Ended
with Prior Spouse (mm/dd/yyyy)
H.How My Current Spouse's Marriage Ended with Prior Spouse
Annulled
Spouse Deceased
9.If you were married before, provide the following information about your prior spouse. If you have more than one previous marriage, provide that information on additional sheets of paper.
A.My Prior Spouse's Legal Name
B.My Prior Spouse's Immigration Status When My Marriage Ended (if known)
My Prior Spouse's Date of Birth
D. My Prior Spouse's Country
of Birth
My Prior Spouse's Country of
F. Date of Marriage with My Prior
Citizenship or Nationality
Spouse (mm/dd/yyyy)
G.Date Marriage Ended with My Prior Spouse (mm/dd/yyyy)
H.How Marriage Ended with My Prior Spouse
Part 11. Information About Your Children
1.Indicate your total number of children. (You must indicate ALL children, including: children who are alive, missing, or deceased; children born in the United States or in other countries; children under 18 years of age or older; children who are currently married or unmarried; children living with you or elsewhere; current stepchildren; legally adopted children; and children born when you were not married.)
2.Provide the following information about all your children (sons and daughters) listed in Item Number 1., regardless of age. To list any additional children, use additional sheets of paper.
A. Child 1
Current Legal Name
A-Number (if any)
Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy) Country of Birth
Page 9 of 20
Part 11. Information About Your Children (continued)
Current Address
What is your child's relationship to you? (for example, biological child, stepchild, legally adopted child)
B. Child 2
Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)
C. Child 3
Page 10 of 20
Once an individual decides to apply for United States citizenship, the next significant step involves filling out the USCIS N-400 form, known as the Application for Naturalization. This document is crucial in the citizenship process as it collects detailed information about the applicant's background, residency, and moral character. Completing the N-400 form accurately is essential to avoid delays or denials. The following steps offer a guide to navigate through this form, emphasizing the necessity to proceed carefully and verify all provided information against personal records to ensure its accuracy.
After submitting the form, applicants will receive a receipt notice from USCIS and will later be scheduled for an interview and citizenship test. Preparing thoroughly for the interview and test is crucial for a successful application. Notably, all interactions with USCIS should be approached with honesty and integrity, as misleading information or omissions can result in severe penalties, including denial of citizenship.
The USCIS N-400 form, officially known as the Application for Naturalization, is a document that legal permanent residents (green card holders) in the United States submit when they are ready to apply for U.S. citizenship through the process known as naturalization. This form is a critical part of demonstrating one's eligibility and readiness to become a fully integrated citizen of the United States, embracing the rights and responsibilities that come with citizenship.
Eligibility to file the N-400 form is primarily reserved for individuals who have been legal permanent residents in the United States for at least 5 years, or for 3 years if they're filing as the spouse of a U.S. citizen. Additional requirements include being at least 18 years old, having continuous residence in the U.S., demonstrating good moral character, passing tests on English and U.S. history and government, and being committed to the principles of the U.S. Constitution.
Filing the N-400 form requires a payment that covers both the application processing and biometrics (fingerprinting and photo) services. As fees are subject to change, it is advised to consult the official U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website for the most current fee structure. Fee waivers may be available for those who qualify based on their financial situation.
The N-400 form can be submitted either online through the official USCIS website or by mail. The online submission process includes creating an account on the USCIS website, filling out the form electronically, uploading necessary documents, and paying the filing fee online. If mailing, it's imperative to ensure that the form and all required documents are sent to the correct address as specified by USCIS for your particular resident location and application scenario.
The time frame for the naturalization process can vary widely based on the applicant's location, the current USCIS workload, and other factors. Generally, applicants might expect the process to take between 6 to 12 months from submission of the N-400 form to taking the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony. Applicants can check the status of their application online through the USCIS website.
Should an N-400 application be denied, the applicant is notified in writing of the reasons for the decision. The applicant may choose to appeal the decision within 30 days of receiving the denial notice. This involves filing a Form N-336, Request for a Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings, along with the appropriate fee. Alternatively, the applicant may reapply for naturalization by submitting a new N-400 form, addressing the reasons for the initial denial in the subsequent application.
Yes, passing the English and civics (U.S. history and government) tests is a mandatory requirement for most naturalization applicants. However, exceptions and accommodations are available for certain applicants due to age, long-term residency, or health conditions. For instance, individuals who are over a certain age and have lived in the U.S. as a permanent resident for periods totaling at least 20 years are exempt from the English test but must still take the civics test, possibly in their native language.
Changes in marital status can indeed affect the N-400 naturalization process, especially for applicants who are applying based on their marriage to a U.S. citizen. For example, if an applicant gets divorced after submitting the N-400 based on a 3-year marriage to a U.S. citizen, this may potentially impact their eligibility. It's critical to inform USCIS of any changes in marital status during the application process to ensure accurate evaluation of eligibility.
When seeking to become a U.S. citizen through naturalization, applicants must complete the USCIS N-400 form. This form is your ticket to the interview process and plays a pivotal role in the overall application. However, several common mistakes can delay or even derail this important journey. Let's carefully explore the most frequent slip-ups to ensure your path to citizenship is as smooth as possible.
Not Fully Completing the Form: One might leave sections blank because they think they don't apply, but every question needs an answer. If a question doesn't apply, use 'N/A' or 'None' to indicate so, showing that you didn't simply overlook it.
Providing Inaccurate Information: The temptation to omit or alter information can be strong, especially if you think it might hinder your application. However, honesty is imperative. Inaccuracies can lead to denials or future legal trouble.
Forgetting to Sign: It sounds simple, but in the hustle and bustle of gathering documentation and filling out the form, many applicants forget to sign it, rendering the application invalid.
Using the Wrong Form Version: USCIS updates forms occasionally. Using an outdated form can mean automatic rejection. Always check the USCIS website for the most current version.
Mismatched Information: The details on your N-400 form should match those on other official documents and previous application forms. Inconsistencies can raise flags about your credibility.
Not Including Required Documentation: Failing to attach necessary documents or official copies can delay processing. Ensure every required piece of documentation is included with your form.
Incorrect Fee or Payment Method: USCIS has strict rules about how fees should be paid and how much. An incorrect fee or form of payment can lead to the rejection of your application.
Not Updating Changes in Circumstances: If there are significant changes in your personal circumstances after submitting your N-400 but before finalizing your naturalization (like marriage, divorce, or a new job), you must inform USCIS. These changes could affect your eligibility or processing times.
Failure to Prepare for the English and Civics Tests: Though not directly related to the N-400 form itself, underestimating these tests can result in having to reapply and pay the filing fee again. Adequate preparation is key.
Embarking on the path to U.S. citizenship is a journey filled with anticipation and hope. Avoiding these common pitfalls can significantly streamline your application process. Take your time, review everything carefully, and remember, attention to detail can make all the difference in achieving your dream of becoming a U.S. citizen.
When applying for U.S. citizenship, individuals must complete the USCIS N-400 form, also known as the Application for Naturalization. This form serves as the primary document to apply for citizenship. However, several other forms and documents are commonly required to support the application. These additional materials help to ensure the applicant meets all eligibility requirements and provide a comprehensive overview of the applicant's background and current status.
In addition to the N-400 form, the preparation of these supporting documents is crucial for a successful citizenship application. Each document serves a specific purpose and supports the application in its own unique way. Applicants should ensure all forms are correctly filled out and all required documents are included to avoid delays in the naturalization process.
DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application: Similar to the N-400, the DS-160 is used by those seeking a nonimmigrant visa to enter the United States. Both forms collect detailed personal information, employment history, and background questions to assess eligibility, though the DS-160 focuses on temporary visits.
DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application: This form is for individuals applying for an immigrant visa. Like the N-400, it requires comprehensive personal data, education, and work history. However, the DS-260 is for obtaining a visa to enter the U.S., while the N-400 is for becoming a naturalized citizen.
I-130, Petition for Alien Relative: Used by U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to establish a relationship with an alien relative who intends to immigrate to the U.S. Both the I-130 and N-400 require proof of identity and relationship to U.S. entities, albeit for different ultimate purposes.
I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status: This application is for individuals seeking to become permanent U.S. residents. Similar to the N-400, it gathers extensive personal information, but focuses on adjusting the applicant's status from nonimmigrant to immigrant, rather than granting citizenship.
I-765, Application for Employment Authorization: Though its primary purpose is to request permission to work in the U.S., it overlaps with the N-400 in terms of collecting personal and eligibility information. However, the I-765 is focused on employment, whereas the N-400's goal is citizenship.
I-601, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility: Applicants complete this form to waive certain grounds that might prevent them from being admitted to the U.S. or adjusting their status. It shares the feature of requiring detailed personal and background information with the N-400, albeit for the purpose of overcoming eligibility obstacles.
G-325A, Biographic Information: Used for various immigration processes, this form collects biographic details about an individual. It complements the N-400 by providing a detailed personal history, although the N-400 is more comprehensive and specifically aimed at naturalization.
I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card: This application is for Green Card renewals or replacements. While its primary focus is different, it requires current personal details and previous immigration history, paralleling the level of detail sought in the N-400 for citizenship purposes.
I-751, Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence: Filed by conditional residents to remove conditions on their status, this form collects personal data and evidence of marital union (if applicable). Like the N-400, it dives into personal background but serves to alter immigration status rather than confer citizenship.
I-864, Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA: This form demonstrates that an immigrant has adequate means of financial support and is not likely to rely on U.S. government welfare. Required detailed financial information and sponsorship undertakings echo the N-400’s thorough approach to gathering personal data, albeit from a financial perspective.
The USCIS N-400 form, also known as the Application for Naturalization, is a critical step in the journey to becoming a U.S. citizen. It is important to approach this document with attention to detail and an understanding of the dos and don'ts to avoid unnecessary delays or complications in the naturalization process. Below are nine essential points to consider when filling out the form:
Following these guidelines will help ensure that the process of completing and submitting the USCIS N-400 form goes smoothly. It is also advisable to consult with or hire an immigration attorney if there are any uncertainties or complications with your application. An attorney can provide legal advice tailored to your individual circumstance, which is especially helpful in complex or unique situations.
Applying for U.S. citizenship involves several steps, one of which includes completing the USCIS Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. However, there are common misconceptions about this form that can lead to confusion. Let's clarify some of these misunderstandings:
This is not always necessary. Many applicants successfully complete and submit the N-400 form without legal assistance. However, if your case is complex, consulting with a legal professional could be beneficial.
While it's true that the form itself is in English, applicants who are over a certain age and have lived in the United States as a permanent resident for a specific period are allowed to take their citizenship test in their native language. Nonetheless, the form's responses must be in English, unless an exemption is met.
The fee for filing the N-400 form is set by the USCIS and is non-negotiable. In some cases, fee waivers or reductions may be available for those who meet certain requirements.
Submitting the form is an important step, but it's just part of the naturalization process. Applicants must also pass a citizenship test, complete an interview, and meet other requirements before being granted citizenship.
Having an arrest record does not automatically disqualify you from citizenship. The nature of the arrest, the outcome, and other factors are considered. It's important to disclose all relevant information in your application and seek legal advice if needed.
Children may become citizens through their parents, but the process is not automatic upon the parent's naturalization. Separate applications may be necessary for children, depending on various factors including their age and residency status.
The USCIS N-400 form is an application for naturalization, a significant step for immigrants seeking to become U.S. citizens. Here are nine key takeaways to remember when filling out and using this form:
Properly filling out and understanding the use of the USCIS N-400 form is a critical step towards achieving U.S. citizenship. Applicants should approach the process with care and attention to detail, ensuring a smoother path towards naturalization.
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