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The USCIS N-400 form, also known as the Application for Naturalization, is a crucial document for non-U.S. citizens seeking to become American citizens. This form is the first step in the journey toward citizenship, requiring detailed personal information and a comprehensive understanding of one's background. Navigating through its complexities is key to successfully applying and achieving the desired status.

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For those seeking to make the United States their permanent home, the USCIS N-400 form stands as a critical step towards achieving that dream. Known also as the Application for Naturalization, this document is the gateway for eligible green card holders to become U.S. citizens, a journey marked with anticipation and hope. Completing the N-400 form is the culmination of a process that involves living in the U.S. for a specified period, demonstrating good moral character, and showing an understanding of U.S. history and government, among other requirements. With its detailed questions, the form not only serves to affirm the applicant's eligibility but also to ensure their commitment to the values and responsibilities of U.S. citizenship. As such, the accuracy and completeness of the information provided on the form are paramount, making it imperative for applicants to approach this task with the utmost care and diligence.

	Application for Naturalization	USCIS
	Department of Homeland Security	Form N-400
	Department of Homeland Security	OMB No. 1615-0052
	U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services	Expires 09/30/2022

Date Stamp

For

USCIS

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-

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:

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)

Family Name (Last Name)		Given Name (First Name)		Middle Name (if applicable)

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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)

Family Name (Last Name)	Given Name (First Name)	Middle 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.

Family Name (Last Name)

Given Name (First Name)

Middle Name (if applicable)

U.S. Social Security Number (if applicable)

6. USCIS Online Account Number (if any)

►

Gender

Date of Birth

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?

Yes

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?

Yes

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?

Yes

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.)

Yes

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?	Yes
	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:

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Part 3. Accommodations for Individuals With Disabilities and/or Impairments (continued)

A-

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

1.	Daytime Telephone Number	2.	Work Telephone Number (if any)
3.		4.
3.	Evening Telephone Number	4.	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
						-

(USPS ZIP Code Lookup)

B.Current Mailing Address (if different from the address above) In Care Of Name (if any)

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)

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Part 5. Information About Your Residence (continued)

A-

C.Physical Address 2

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

D.Physical Address 3

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

E.Physical Address 4

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

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?

Yes

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.

Yes

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Part 6. Information About Your Parents (continued)

A-

A.Current Legal Name of U.S. Citizen Mother

	Family Name (Last Name)		Given Name (First Name)		Middle Name (if applicable)

B.	Mother's Country of Birth			C. Mother's Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

D.	Date Mother Became a U.S. Citizen	E. Mother's A-Number
	(if known) (mm/dd/yyyy)	(if any)

► A-

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

	Family Name (Last Name)		Given Name (First Name)		Middle Name (if applicable)

B.	Father's Country of Birth			C. Father's Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

D.	Date Father Became a U.S. Citizen	E. Father's A-Number
	(if known) (mm/dd/yyyy)	(if any)

► A-

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
3.	Height Feet		Inches		4. Weight	Pounds
3.	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

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Part 8. Information About Your Employment and Schools You Attended

A-

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

Street Number and Name

Apt.

Ste. Flr. Number

City or Town

State

ZIP Code + 4

Province or Region

Postal Code

Country

(foreign address only)

Date From (mm/dd/yyyy)

Date To (mm/dd/yyyy)

Your Occupation

2.Employer or School Name

Street Number and Name

Apt.

Ste. Flr. Number

City or Town

State

ZIP Code + 4

Province or Region

Postal Code

Country

(foreign address only)

Date From (mm/dd/yyyy)

Date To (mm/dd/yyyy)

Your Occupation

3.Employer or School Name

Street Number and Name

Apt.

Ste. Flr. Number

City or Town

State

ZIP Code + 4

Province or Region

Postal Code

Country

(foreign address only)

Date From (mm/dd/yyyy)

Date To (mm/dd/yyyy)

Your Occupation

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Part 9. Time Outside the United States

A-

1.How many total days (24 hours or longer) did you spend outside the United States during the last 5 years?

days

2.	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
(mm/dd/yyyy)	(mm/dd/yyyy)	More?		Traveled	United States
		Yes	No

		Yes	No

		Yes	No

		Yes	No

		Yes	No

		Yes	No

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)?

Yes

4.If you are married now, provide the following information about your current spouse.

A.Current Spouse's Legal Name

Family Name (Last Name)		Given Name (First Name)		Middle Name (if applicable)

B.Current Spouse's Previous Legal Name

Family Name (Last Name)		Given Name (First Name)		Middle Name (if applicable)

C.Other Names Used by Current Spouse (include nicknames, aliases, and maiden name, if applicable)

Family Name (Last Name)		Given Name (First Name)		Middle 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)

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Part 10. Information About Your Marital History (continued)

F.Current Spouse's Present Home Address Street Number and Name

A-

Apt. Ste. Flr. Number

City or Town

County

State

ZIP Code + 4

Province or Region

Postal Code

Country

(foreign address only)

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)

Yes

►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

Family Name (Last Name)		Given Name (First Name)		Middle Name (if applicable)

B.Immigration Status of My Current Spouse's Prior Spouse (if known)

U.S. Citizen

Lawful Permanent Resident

Other (Explain):

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

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Part 10. Information About Your Marital History (continued)

F.My Current Spouse's Date of Marriage G. Date My Current Spouse's Marriage Ended

with Prior Spouse (mm/dd/yyyy)		with Prior Spouse (mm/dd/yyyy)

A-

H.How My Current Spouse's Marriage Ended with Prior Spouse

Annulled

Divorced

Spouse Deceased

Other (Explain):

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

Family Name (Last Name)		Given Name (First Name)		Middle Name (if applicable)

B.My Prior Spouse's Immigration Status When My Marriage Ended (if known)

U.S. Citizen

Lawful Permanent Resident

Other (Explain):

C.	My Prior Spouse's Date of Birth	D. My Prior Spouse's Country
	(mm/dd/yyyy)		of Birth

E.	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

Annulled

Divorced

Spouse Deceased

Other (Explain):

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
Family Name (Last Name)		Given Name (First Name)	Middle Name (if applicable)

A-Number (if any)	Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy) Country of Birth

► A-

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Part 11. Information About Your Children (continued)

Current Address

Street Number and Name

A-

Apt. Ste. Flr. Number

City or Town

County

State

ZIP Code + 4

Province or Region

Postal Code

Country

(foreign address only)

What is your child's relationship to you? (for example, biological child, stepchild, legally adopted child)

B. Child 2

Current Legal Name

Family Name (Last Name)

Given Name (First Name)

Middle Name (if applicable)

A-Number (if any)

Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy)

Country of Birth

► A-

Current 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)

What is your child's relationship to you? (for example, biological child, stepchild, legally adopted child)

► A-

Form N-400 Edition 09/17/19

Page 10 of 20

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Fact Name	Description
Form Purpose	The N-400 form is used for applying for U.S. citizenship through the naturalization process.
Form Issuer	This form is issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Eligibility Criteria	Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen), and meet all other eligibility requirements outlined by USCIS.
Filing Fee	As of the last update, the filing fee for the N-400 form is subject to change. Applicants are encouraged to check the USCIS website for the most current fee information.
Processing Time	The processing time varies by location and other factors. Applicants can expect the process to take several months.
Governing Law(s)	The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) governs the naturalization process and the requirements for the N-400 form.

After deciding to apply for U.S. citizenship, the next step is filling out the USCIS N-400 form, also known as the Application for Naturalization. This form is your first step towards becoming a U.S. citizen, through which your eligibility and personal information will be assessed by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Completing this form accurately is crucial as any mistake could delay the process or affect your application negatively. Following a clear set of instructions can help to ensure that your application is submitted correctly.

Gather all necessary documents and information, such as your Green Card, travel history, and employment history, before starting the form. This will make the process smoother and prevent unnecessary delays.
Access the N-400 form online at the official USCIS website. Ensure that you have the latest version of the form.
Read each question carefully and fill out the form with accurate and current information. Use black ink if you are filling out a paper form, and type your answers if you are filling it online.
Provide your personal information, including your legal name, any other names you have used, and your current address. Do not leave any questions unanswered unless instructed.
Include your employment and school history for the last five years. Be as precise as possible with dates and addresses.
Answer questions about your time outside of the United States. You will need to give details on trips that lasted 24 hours or more in the past five years. Ensure this information matches your travel documents.
Be honest when answering questions related to your moral character and criminal history. This includes questions about arrests, detentions, or indictments. Make sure to provide complete information.
Review your application thoroughly. Double-check all the details and ensure that there are no errors or missing information.
If required, sign and date your application. An electronic signature is accepted for online submissions, while a handwritten signature is necessary for paper forms.
Pay the application fee, if applicable. This can usually be done online through the USCIS website or by arranging the payment as instructed for paper submissions.
Submit the completed N-400 form along with all required supporting documents. If you are submitting online, you can upload the documents and submit them with your application. For paper submissions, mail them to the address provided by USCIS.

After submitting your N-400 form, USCIS will send you a receipt notice. Following this, you will be notified about your biometrics appointment where your fingerprints will be taken. Then, you will be scheduled for an interview where a USCIS officer will review your application and test your knowledge of English and U.S. history and government. Successfully completing these steps will bring you closer to obtaining U.S. citizenship.

What is the USCIS N-400 form?

The USCIS N-400 form, officially known as the Application for Naturalization, is a critical document used by individuals who wish to become naturalized citizens of the United States. It initiates the legal process of granting U.S. citizenship to foreign nationals, provided they meet certain eligibility criteria set forth by U.S. immigration law. Completing and submitting this form is the first step in the journey toward becoming a full-fledged U.S. citizen.
Who is eligible to file the N-400 form?

Eligibility to file the N-400 form is determined by several criteria, including but not limited to: having a green card (permanent residency) for at least 5 years, or for at least 3 years if filing as the spouse of a U.S. citizen; being at least 18 years old; having lived within the state or USCIS district with jurisdiction over the applicant's place of residence for at least 3 months prior to filing; demonstrating continuous residence and physical presence in the United States; being able to read, write, and speak basic English; having knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government; and being of good moral character.
How do I submit my N-400 form?

The N-400 form can be submitted either online or by mail. To submit online, applicants must create an account through the USCIS website and follow the instructions for electronic submission. For those preferring to mail their application, the form must be sent to the appropriate address provided by USCIS, which varies depending on the applicant's location and whether they are filing from within the United States or abroad. Regardless of the submission method, it's critical to ensure that all required documentation is included and that the form is fully completed to avoid delays.
What are the fees for filing the N-400 form?

The fee for filing the N-400 form is subject to change; therefore, applicants should verify the current cost on the USCIS website. As of the last update, the fee includes a base charge for processing the application and an additional fee for biometric services (fingerprinting, photographing, and sometimes, an interview). Fee waivers and reductions may be available for those who meet certain criteria, such as financial hardship. Detailed information regarding payment methods and who qualifies for fee waivers or reductions can also be found on the USCIS website.

Filling out the USCIS N-400 form, which is used for applying for U.S. citizenship, is a crucial step towards achieving the American dream. However, many applicants stumble over common pitfalls during this process. It's important to proceed with care to avoid delays, rejections, or even denials of your application. Here are ten common mistakes people make while filling out the N-400 form:

Not following instructions carefully: Every question and instruction on the N-400 form has a purpose. Overlooking details or not providing information as exactly requested can lead to processing delays or requests for additional information.
Using incorrect version of the form: USCIS updates forms periodically. Applicants must ensure they are filling out the most current version of the form available on the USCIS website.
Leaving sections blank: If a question does not apply, write “N/A” (not applicable) instead of leaving it blank. Blank answers might be interpreted as incomplete information.
Providing incomplete travel history: Applicants must accurately report all trips outside the United States in the last five years. Forgetting trips or not having exact dates can raise questions about your application's accuracy.
Not disclosing all affiliations: Failing to disclose membership in all organizations, especially those outside of the United States, can be viewed negatively.
Incorrect fee payment: Ensure the submission includes the correct fee amount and is paid with an accepted payment method. Incorrect fees can cause delays.
Failing to sign the form: An unsigned form is like an unsigned check – it won't be processed. Make sure to sign and date the form where required.
Mismatched information: The information provided should match that on other official documents unless there has been a legal change of name or similar circumstance.
Forgetting to include required evidence: Documentation proving residency, moral character, and other requirements must accompany the form. Missing documents may lead to application rejection.
Inaccurate criminal history disclosure: All interactions with law enforcement must be disclosed, even if they did not result in charges or convictions. Concealing this information can have serious consequences.

In summary, applicants must approach the N-400 form with attention to detail and thoroughness. Avoiding these common errors can greatly enhance the prospects of a successful application. Remember, the path to U.S. citizenship is a journey that requires patience, accuracy, and honesty.

Applying for U.S. citizenship is a significant step that involves thorough preparation and submission of the right documentation. The USCIS N-400, Application for Naturalization, is the primary form used for this purpose. However, several other documents and forms often accompany it to support the application process. These additional documents are essential for providing evidence of eligibility and for the smooth processing of the application. Let's take a closer look at some of these critical documents and forms.

Passport-Style Photographs: Applicants are required to submit two identical passport-style photographs that meet the U.S. Department of State's standards, unless they are applying from abroad or qualify for an exception.
Copy of Permanent Resident Card (Green Card): A copy of both sides of the applicant's Permanent Resident Card is necessary to prove current immigration status.
Application for Employment Authorization (Form I-765) (if applicable): This form is used by those who seek to obtain permission to work in the United States legally, typically filed by applicants with pending adjustment of status or certain other conditions.
Application for Travel Document (Form I-131) (if applicable): For applicants who need to leave the United States temporarily while their N-400 is pending, this form requests permission to travel without affecting the naturalization application.
Proof of Current Marital Status: This may include marriage certificates, divorce decrees, or death certificates of a spouse to verify current marital status and marital history.
Documents Relating to Tax Filings: Copies of tax returns, W-2s, or transcripts for the last five years (or three years for those married to U.S. citizens) are often required to demonstrate compliance with U.S. tax laws.
Evidence of Selective Service Registration (for male applicants): Males between 18 and 26 must provide proof of registration with the Selective Service System.
Copies of Previous Marriage Termination Documentation (if applicable): For applicants who have been previously married, it is necessary to include documentation that all prior marriages have been legally terminated.
Documents Showing Name Changes (if applicable): If the applicant has legally changed their name, they must provide court orders, marriage certificates, or other official documents as proof of the name change.
Certificate of Naturalization of Parent(s) (if applicable): For those claiming U.S. citizenship through parentage, it is necessary to provide the Certificate of Naturalization of their U.S. citizen parent(s).

The careful preparation and submission of these documents, along with the N-400 form, are crucial steps in the naturalization process. Each document plays a role in establishing the applicant's eligibility and readiness for U.S. citizenship. As such, applicants must ensure that all required documentation is complete, accurate, and properly submitted to avoid delays or issues in the processing of their application. With the right preparation and attention to detail, applicants can navigate the path to U.S. citizenship more smoothly and confidently.

USCIS Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status): Like the N-400, the I-485 is a critical step for individuals seeking to change their status within the United States. Whereas the N-400 is for naturalization, the I-485 focuses on adjusting an individual's status to permanent residency. Both involve complex documentation and evidence to demonstrate eligibility and both result in a significant change in the applicant's legal status in the U.S.
DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Electronic Application): Similar to the N-400's role in the naturalization process, the DS-260 serves as a primary document for those seeking an immigrant visa for permanent residency in the U.S. when applying from abroad. Both forms are detailed, requiring extensive personal information and both mark the beginning of a critical evaluation process by U.S. immigration authorities.
Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): This form is part of the family-based immigration process, used by U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to establish a relationship with an intending immigrant. Much like the N-400, it's a step toward altering one's immigration status, though the I-130 focuses on establishing eligibility for immigration benefits based on family relationships.
Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization): While the N-400 applies to naturalization, the I-765 is used by individuals seeking authorization to work legally in the U.S. without being a citizen. Both are essential for immigrants looking to build their lives in the U.S.—the former granting the right to vote and a U.S. passport, and the latter providing the ability to work legally.
Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card): Necessary for green card holders needing to renew or replace their card, the I-90 shares the N-400’s role in updating immigration statuses. Although catering to different needs—one for renewing a green card and the other for naturalization—both are critical in maintaining or altering one's legal resident status in the U.S.
Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker): Employed by U.S. employers seeking to hire foreign workers temporarily, the I-129, while distinct in purpose from the N-400, is another piece in the complex puzzle of U.S. immigration. It highlights the variety of pathways and processes available for changing or establishing one's legal status in the United States.

Filling out the USCIS N-400, the Application for Naturalization, is a critical step for individuals seeking to become U.S. citizens. The process requires attention to detail and an understanding of the requirements. Below are key dos and don'ts to consider when completing this form:

Do gather all necessary documents before starting the form. This includes your green card, travel records, and any other relevant information that supports your application.
Do review the entire form and instructions provided by USCIS carefully to understand the type of information required. This will help prevent mistakes and ensure that your application is complete.
Do use black ink if filling out the form by hand or ensure that typed text is clear and easy to read. This helps avoid processing delays caused by illegible handwriting or print.
Do be honest and accurate in all the information you provide. False statements can lead to serious consequences including denial of citizenship or legal action.
Don't leave any sections blank unless instructed. If a question does not apply to you, write “N/A” (not applicable) to indicate that you have seen and considered the question.
Don't guess on dates or facts. If you’re unsure, take the time to verify the information. Accuracy is essential to avoid processing delays or questions about your application.
Don't ignore the evidence requirement. Be sure to submit all requested supporting documents. Failing to provide necessary evidence may result in a delay or denial of your application.
Don't forget to sign and date your application. An unsigned application will be rejected by USCIS, leading to unnecessary delays in processing your application for naturalization.

Attention to these details can significantly impact the success of your application. Ensuring that your N-400 form is correctly filled out and accompanied by the appropriate documents can help streamline the naturalization process. For further guidance, consider consulting with a legal expert who specializes in immigration law to assist you throughout the process.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, is a crucial step for non-U.S. citizens who wish to become naturalized citizens of the United States. However, there are several common misconceptions about this form and the naturalization process that can lead to confusion and delays. Below are seven such misconceptions, explained and clarified.

Language proficiency is not assessed. Contrary to what some might believe, the USCIS N-400 application process does assess an applicant's ability to read, write, and speak in English. This is a key requirement for naturalization, reflecting the need for citizens to engage with civic life, including voting and jury duty.
Legal representation is not allowed during the process. In fact, applicants have the right to be represented by an attorney at their naturalization interview and during other stages of the application process. Legal representation can be crucial for navigating complex cases or if issues arise during the application process.
The form is the only requirement for naturalization. Submitting a completed N-400 form is just one step in the naturalization process. Applicants must also pass a U.S. history and government (civics) test, complete an interview, prove continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S., and demonstrate good moral character, among other requirements.
Military service automatically grants U.S. citizenship. While serving in the U.S. armed forces can expedite the naturalization process, eligible service members must still file Form N-400 and fulfill all other requirements for naturalization. Military service can qualify one for certain exemptions and accommodations, but it does not eliminate the need for the form or process.
There is no fee waiver available for the N-400 application. The USCIS does offer fee waivers for applicants who meet certain conditions, such as financial hardship. Understanding the availability of fee waivers can make the naturalization process more accessible to eligible applicants who might otherwise be deterred by the cost.
Children automatically become citizens when their parents do. Although children under 18 may automatically acquire U.S. citizenship when their parents naturalize, this is not guaranteed by simply filing Form N-400. The process depends on specific conditions being met, including the child's permanent resident status and living in the legal and physical custody of the naturalizing parent.
Submitting forms online is not an option. The USCIS has made significant efforts to modernize its services. Applicants can submit Form N-400 and many other forms online, offering a more convenient and faster way to apply for naturalization. This also allows for easier status tracking and communication with the USCIS.

Understanding these misconceptions about the N-400 form and the naturalization process can help applicants avoid unnecessary mistakes and delays. It's important for potential applicants to conduct thorough research or consult with legal experts to ensure they meet all the requirements and understand the steps involved in becoming a U.S. citizen.

Filling out the USCIS N-400 form, which is the Application for Naturalization, is an essential step toward becoming a U.S. citizen. This process might seem overwhelming, but understanding a few key points can make it smoother and more manageable. Here are four important takeaways to guide you through this crucial process:

Accuracy is crucial: Make sure all the information you provide is accurate and complete. Mistakes or misrepresentations can lead to delays or even the denial of your application. Double-check dates, personal information, and answers to all questions before submitting.
Prepare your supporting documents: Alongside the N-400 form, you'll need to gather and submit various supporting documents. These typically include proof of your current legal status, evidence of continuous residence, and any name change documents, among others. The specific documents required can vary based on individual circumstances, so review the instructions carefully.
Understand the fee structure: Filing your N-400 form comes with a fee, which covers processing and biometric services. However, fee waivers or reductions might be available for those who qualify based on their financial situation. Ensure you understand the current fee requirements and waiver options available to you.
Prepare for the citizenship test and interview: After submitting your form, the next steps include a citizenship test and an interview. The test covers U.S. history, government, and English language skills. Start preparing early by using official study guides and resources to increase your chances of passing. During the interview, you'll also answer questions about your application and background, so familiarity with your N-400 application details is crucial.

By keeping these key points in mind, you'll be better prepared to navigate the application process for U.S. citizenship. Remember, patience and careful preparation are your best tools for success.

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