What is Form N-400?

Form N-400, officially called the Application for Naturalization, is the official form used by lawful permanent residents (green card holders) who want to become U.S. citizens.

Naturalization is the process through which immigrants gain U.S. citizenship, allowing them to enjoy benefits like voting rights, holding a U.S. passport, and sponsoring family members.

This process begins with filing Form N-400 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Eligibility for Form N-400

To apply for U.S. citizenship, you must meet specific eligibility requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have lived as a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
• Demonstrate continuous residence and physical presence in the United States.
• Show good moral character.
• Pass the U.S. civics and English test.
• Take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States.

Who Cannot File USCIS Form N-400?

You cannot file Form N-400 if:

• You have not fulfilled the residency or other eligibility requirements.
• You acquired or derived citizenship through a U.S.-citizen parent.
• You are currently abroad and do not meet the physical presence requirement.

N-400 Timeline

The current median processing time for Form N-400 is approximately 5.5 months.

USCIS has significantly improved processing times, cutting delays in half since 2019.

However, the timeline can vary depending on your location and the USCIS field office handling your application.

Early Filing Rule:

If you meet the residency requirement (3 or 5 years), USCIS allows you to file Form N-400 90 days early. To calculate your early filing date:

• Find the date on your Permanent Resident Card (green card).
• Add 3 or 5 years, depending on your eligibility.
• Subtract 90 days.

For example, if your green card was issued on January 1, 2024, and you need to wait 5 years, you become eligible on January 1, 2029. Subtracting 90 days, the earliest filing date would be October 3, 2028.

N-400 Filing Cost

The filing fee for Form N-400 is $760. Additional costs include:

• Translation services for non-English documents.
• Photocopying and mailing expenses.

Fee waivers or reductions are available for certain applicants based on financial hardship or eligibility (e.g., military applicants).

Required Documents for USCIS Form N-400

When filing Form N-400, you need to provide documents that verify your eligibility and identity:

1. Proof of Permanent Residency:
   • A photocopy of both sides of your Permanent Resident Card (green card).
   • If your green card is lost, include your Form I-90 receipt (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card).
2. Payment for Filing Fees:
   • Submit a check, money order, or Form G-1450 (to pay via credit card).
   • Ensure your A-Number is included on any payment.
3. Photographs (if living outside the U.S.):
   • Two passport-style photos (2×2 inches).
   • Write your name and A-Number on the back in pencil.

Additional Supporting Documents (if applicable):

• Name Change Proof: Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
• Marriage to a U.S. Citizen:
  • Proof of spouse’s citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or Certificate of Naturalization).
  • Marriage certificate and proof of shared residence (tax returns, bank statements).
• Military Service: Include Form N-426.
• Absences Over 6 Months: Evidence of ties to the U.S., such as tax returns or mortgage records.
• Medical Exemption: Submit Form N-648 for applicants with qualifying disabilities.

How to File Form N-400
You can file Form N-400 online or by mail:

Online Filing:

1. Create a USCIS online account.
2. Complete the Form N-400 and upload supporting documents.
3. Pay the filing fee electronically.
4. Track your case status through your USCIS account.

Filing by Mail:

1. Download and print Form N-400 from the USCIS website.
2. Fill out the form neatly in black ink.
3. Include all required supporting documents.
4. Mail the completed application to the appropriate USCIS address based on your state and delivery method.

The Naturalization Process: Step by Step

1. Submit Form N-400: File your application with USCIS.
2. Attend Biometrics Appointment: USCIS will schedule a date for fingerprinting and photographs.
3. Interview and Civics Test: Attend an in-person interview where a USCIS officer will verify your application and administer the U.S. civics and English test.
4. Receive USCIS Decision: You will receive one of three outcomes: approval, continuation (for missing documents), or denial.
5. Oath of Allegiance Ceremony: If approved, you will be invited to take the Oath of Allegiance, officially becoming a U.S. citizen.

Tips for Filing Form N-400

• Double-check your application: Ensure all answers are correct and complete before submitting.
• Provide certified translations: If any documents are in a language other than English, include a certified English translation.
• Use black ink: If filing by hand, use only black ink and avoid white-out or cross-outs.
• Sign your form: A missing signature will result in rejection of your application.
• Keep copies: Make copies of your completed Form N-400 and all supporting documents.

Why File Form N-400?

Becoming a U.S. citizen offers numerous benefits:

• Voting rights: Participate in federal and state elections.
• U.S. passport: Travel freely and access consular protection abroad.
• Family sponsorship: Sponsor relatives for U.S. permanent residency.
• Government jobs: Access jobs requiring U.S. citizenship.
• Protection from deportation: U.S. citizens cannot be deported.

Conclusion

Form N-400 is the gateway to U.S. citizenship for lawful permanent residents.

Understanding the eligibility criteria, gathering the required documents, and carefully submitting your application can simplify the naturalization process.

Once approved, you gain the lifelong rights and privileges that come with U.S. citizenship.