How to Apply for US Citizenship
This article explains the step by step overview of how to apply for US Citizenship, also known as, Naturalization. Have questions? I’m happy to help! Please reach out or schedule a consultation.
1. File form N-400 with USCIS
The first step in applying for citizenship is to file form N-400 with USCIS along with supporting documentation. You are able to file N-400 online through the USCIS website.
2. Biometrics Appointment
About one month after USCIS receives your N-400, you should receive Form I-797C, Notice of Action, letting you know when and where your biometrics appointment will be. At this appointment, your fingerprints, photos, and signature will be collected to verify your identity and conduct a background check.
Make sure to bring your Notice of Action, Green Card, and second form of ID (such as a drivers license, passport or state ID) to your biometrics appointment.
During this stage of the process, you may receive a Request for Evidence from USCIS requesting additional information or materials.
3. Attending your Citizenship Interview and Exam
Your interview will usually take place about 14.5 months after USCIS receives your N-400. They will send you a letter with the date and location of your interview, along with a list of documents that you must bring with you.
If you can't attend on the date that USCIS has scheduled, you may request to reschedule the appointment by writing to the office where your interview is going to take place. The will then send you a new letter with a revised date and time, but it will likely be several months later.
Typically, your citizenship exam will be on the same date as your interview. The exam will consist of a civics test and language skills test.
If you don't pass the test, you will be asked to return about 60-90 days later to retake the appropriate portion of the exam.
4. Receiving a Decision
Your application will either be approved, continued, or denied.
If continued, USCIS will place a hold on your application, either because you did not pass the exam or did not provide the appropriate documentation. If you didn't provide the appropriate documentation, you must wait to receive Form N-14, which will explain what, where, and how to send this information to USCIS. You will have 30 days to respond to their request.
If your application is denied, you will receive a letter from USCIS stating this decision and your options. Depending on your situation, you may be able to file an appeal within 30 days of receiving the denial letter.
If your application is approved, you will get to take the oath of allegiance and receive your Certificate of Naturalization
5. Oath of Allegiance & Certificate of Naturalization
Often, this ceremony will take place on the same day as your interview and exam, otherwise, it will be scheduled about 2-6 weeks later. If it's scheduled later, you will receive a letter (Form N-445) with the date, time, and location of the next available ceremony.
You are not a citizen until you take the Oath of Allegiance, so it's important to show up for the ceremony. If you can't make it to the scheduled time, you must return the notice to your local USCIS office with a letter requesting a new date and explaining why you can't make it to the original date. Failing to appear more than once to your naturalization ceremony may lead to a denial of your application.
Once you become a citizen, you will want to update your social security record and apply for a US Passport.
Have questions or want to speak with an attorney about your application? Head over to the contact page to get started.