N-565: Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document

Form N-565 is used to request a replacement or renewal of your U.S. naturalization or citizenship certificate. This form is typically filed by individuals who have either lost, had their certificate stolen, or need to correct information on their certificate. It can also be used to request a new certificate after a legal name change.

Who Can File - Eligibility

1-Lost or Stolen Naturalization or Citizenship Certificate:
If your Naturalization Certificate or Certificate of Citizenship has been lost, stolen, or destroyed, you can file Form N-565 to get a replacement.
2-Name Change:
If you legally changed your name after becoming a U.S. citizen, you can request a name change on your Naturalization Certificate or Certificate of Citizenship.
3-Requesting a New Certificate of Citizenship:
If you are a U.S. citizen who has lost your Certificate of Citizenship, you can file for a replacement.
4-Correcting Errors:
If there was an error on your Naturalization Certificate or Certificate of Citizenship that was made by USCIS (e.g., a misspelling of your name), you can file Form N-565 to correct that error.

Requirements

1-You Must Be a U.S. Citizen:
You must be a U.S. citizen and have previously been issued a Naturalization Certificate or Certificate of Citizenship by USCIS.
2-The Document Was Issued to You:
You can only apply for a replacement or correction for documents that were issued to you. If you are applying on behalf of a minor or someone else, you must demonstrate that you have authority to do so.

Required Documentation

1-Completed Form N-565:
Fill out Form N-565 completely and sign it.
2-Proof of U.S. Citizenship:
Provide a copy of your U.S. passport, birth certificate, or any other government-issued ID that verifies your identity, if necessary.
3-Evidence of Legal Name Change (if applicable):
If you changed your name legally, provide a court order, marriage certificate, or any other legal document that shows the change.
4-Copy of the Lost/Stolen/Destroyed Document (if applicable):
If the document was lost or stolen, you may be asked to provide a police report or other evidence that the document is missing.
5-Biometrics Fee (if applicable):
If USCIS requires biometrics for your case, they will notify you to attend a biometrics appointment.

Filing Fee

The filing fee for Form N-565 is $555. This fee covers the cost of processing the application and issuing a new certificate.

Fee Waiver:
You may request a fee waiver for Form N-565 by filing Form I-912 (Request for Fee Waiver) if you meet certain financial criteria.

Delivery Type (Online, Physical)

1-File Online:

1-Create a USCIS Account:
-Go to the USCIS website and create an account if you do not already have one.
2-Complete Form N-565 Online:
Fill out the form online, answer all questions, and upload any required documents.
3-Pay the Fee:
You can pay the filing fee online using a credit card, debit card, or bank account.
4-Submit the Form:
Review your information and submit the form online. USCIS will send you a confirmation receipt.

2-File by Mail:

1-Complete Form N-565:
Fill out the form manually and sign it.
2-Prepare the Required Documents:
Gather the necessary documents (e.g., proof of citizenship, name change documents, etc.).
3-Prepare the Filing Fee:
Include a check or money order for the $555 filing fee made payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
4-Mail the Form:
Mail the completed form and supporting documents to the correct USCIS address, which can be found on the USCIS website.

Filing Process

1-Complete Form N-565:
Make sure all sections of the form are filled out correctly, including your personal details and reason for applying.
2-Submit the Application:
You can submit Form N-565 online or by mail, depending on your preference.
3-Receipt Notice:
After USCIS receives your form, they will send you a receipt notice (Form I-797) acknowledging that they are processing your application.
4-Biometrics Appointment (if applicable):
If biometrics are required, you will be scheduled for a biometrics appointment to have your fingerprints and photos taken for background checks.
5-Request for Evidence (RFE):
If USCIS needs additional information or documents, they will issue a Request for Evidence (RFE). Make sure to respond to the RFE promptly.
6-Decision:
After processing, USCIS will send you a decision. If approved, you will receive your new certificate (Naturalization Certificate or Certificate of Citizenship) in the mail.

The processing time for Form N-565 typically ranges from 3 to 6 months. You can check the processing time on the USCIS Processing Times page.