N-400, or Application for Naturalization

Form N-400 is used by lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to apply for U.S. citizenship. If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can file this form to begin the process of becoming a U.S. citizen.

Who Can File - Eligibility

1-Age:
You must be at least 18 years old.
2-Permanent Resident Status:
-You must be a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) for a certain number of years before you can apply:
--5 years if you are a permanent resident and have not been married to a U.S. citizen.
--3 years if you are a permanent resident and have been married to a U.S. citizen for at least 3 years.
3-Continuous Residence:
You must have lived in the U.S. as a permanent resident for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen). During this time, you must have not taken any trips abroad that lasted six months or more.
4-Physical Presence:
You must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least half of the required residence period (e.g., 30 months out of 60 months for general applicants, or 18 months out of 36 months for applicants married to U.S. citizens).
5-Good Moral Character:
You must demonstrate good moral character during the 5-year period (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen) before applying for naturalization. Criminal history, fraud, or other violations of U.S. laws may affect your eligibility.
6-English and Civics Knowledge:
-You must have knowledge of the English language, including the ability to read, write, and speak basic English.
-You must also have a basic understanding of U.S. history and government (civics).
7-Attachment to the U.S. Constitution:
You must demonstrate that you are willing to support and defend the U.S. Constitution.

Required Documentation

1-Completed Form N-400:
Ensure that the form is fully completed and signed. Be truthful in your responses, as providing false information can result in a denial of your application.
2-Proof of Legal Permanent Resident Status:
A copy of your green card (Form I-551), both front and back.
3-Photographs:
Two passport-style photos (if required—this is often required for applicants filing by mail, but not for online applications).
4-Proof of Marital Status (if applying based on marriage to a U.S. citizen):
-A copy of your marriage certificate.
-A copy of your spouse’s U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status (e.g., U.S. passport, certificate of naturalization).
5-Court and Police Records (if applicable):
If you have ever been arrested or convicted of a crime, you must provide court documents or police records related to the conviction, even if the case was dismissed or you were acquitted.
6-Evidence of Continuous Residence:
Provide evidence of your residence in the U.S. for the required period, such as tax returns, pay stubs, lease agreements, or school records.
7-Fee Payment:
$725 for most applicants (this includes the filing fee of $640 and the biometrics fee of $85). If you are 75 years of age or older, the fee may be reduced.
8-Exemptions:
Some applicants may qualify for a fee waiver by submitting Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, if they meet certain financial criteria.

Filing Fee

The filing fee for Form N-400 is:
-$725 for applicants under 75 years old, which includes a $640 filing fee and an $85 biometrics fee (for fingerprinting and background checks).
-If you are 75 years or older, the fee is reduced to $1,170 for applicants under 75 years of age. However, no biometrics fee is required for applicants 75 years or older.
Fee Waivers:
You may be eligible for a fee waiver if you can demonstrate financial hardship by submitting Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver. However, this is not available to everyone.

Delivery Type (Online, Physical)

1-File Online:

1-Create a USCIS Account:
-Go to the USCIS website and create an account.
2-Fill Out Form N-400 Online:
-Complete the online form, following the instructions.
3-Upload Required Documents:
Upload copies of your Green Card, photographs, marriage certificate, and any other supporting documents.
4-Pay the Fee:
Pay the filing fee online using a credit card, debit card, or bank account.
5-Submit:
-After completing the form and paying the fee, submit the application and keep track of your case status online.

2-File by Mail:

1-Complete Form N-400:
-Fill out and sign the form manually.
2-Prepare Supporting Documents:
Gather your Green Card, passport-style photos, and any other required documents.
3-Prepare Payment:
Include a check or money order for $725 (or $1,170 for applicants 75 and older), payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
4-Mail the Form:
-Mail the completed form to the appropriate USCIS address. You can find the mailing address on the USCIS website.

Filing Process

1-Complete Form N-400:
Make sure your form is fully filled out and all required supporting documents are included. Review your application carefully before submission.
2-Submit the Form:
You can file the form online through the USCIS website or by mailing it to the appropriate address.
3-Biometrics Appointment:
After USCIS receives your form, they will schedule a biometrics appointment where you will be fingerprinted, photographed, and have your background checked.
4-Request for Evidence (RFE):
If USCIS needs more information or documents, they will send a Request for Evidence. You must respond promptly.
5-Interview:
Most applicants will be scheduled for a naturalization interview. During the interview, a USCIS officer will review your application and test your knowledge of English and U.S. civics.
6-Decision:
After your interview, USCIS will either approve, deny, or continue your case. If approved, you will receive a Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony.
7-Oath of Allegiance:
If USCIS approves your application, you will be scheduled for an Oath of Allegiance Ceremony, where you will take the Oath of Allegiance and officially become a U.S. citizen.

The average processing time for Form N-400 can vary depending on the location and case complexity. On average, the processing time ranges from 8 to 12 months, but in some cases, it may take longer.

You can check the estimated processing times for your specific case on the USCIS processing times page.