Even if you were born outside the United States, you can become a citizen through the naturalization process. And the first step of this complex path is Form N-400 . So today we will answer some of the most common Form N-400 questions so that you can start your naturalization application well-informed.
At Zava Immigration Law Group we know that the immigration process is difficult for any immigrant. Therefore, our lawyers put all their efforts and knowledge to help each of our clients. Don’t risk your future by dealing with the system on your own. Tell us about your case and take the first step towards a new life in the United States.
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Table of Contents
What is Form N-400?
Form N-400 is the naturalization application used by permanent residents to apply for U.S. citizenship. However, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and provide detailed information about their personal and immigration history.
Who is eligible to complete Form N-400?
To complete Form N-400 and continue with the naturalization process, the applicant must meet the following requirements:
- Be a permanent resident of the U.S. for at least 5 years, or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen.
- Be at least 18 years of age at the time of application.
- Comply with the requirements of continuous and physical residence in the United States.
- Comply with the requirements of good moral conduct.
- Demonstrate basic knowledge of English language and civics.
- Pay the filing fee ($640) and, if applicable, the biometric services fee ($85).
How to fill out Form N-400 correctly?
1: Download Form N-400 or request a copy by mail.
Access the USCIS website and search for Form N-400. You can download it in PDF format to fill it out on your computer or print it and fill it out by hand. If you do not have Internet access, you may call the USCIS Contact Center to request a copy be mailed to you.
2: Read the instructions and gather the necessary evidence
Take the time to read the instructions provided by USCIS instructions provided by USCIS and gather the required supporting documents (copies of your Green Card, marriage certificates, etc.) along with any other evidence of residency and good moral character.
3: Complete Form N-400
Once you have read the instructions and gathered the supporting documentation, proceed to complete Form N-400. Be sure to write clearly and, if completing the form by hand, use black ink to avoid legibility problems. Answer all questions completely and accurately. Remember that this document consists of 18 parts, which are:
– Eligibility information
– Information about you (naturalization applicant)
– Accommodations for people with disabilities and/or handicaps
– Contact information
– Information about your residence
– Information about your parents
– Biographical information
– Information about your employment and schools attended
– Time outside the United States
– Information about your marital history
– Information about your children
– Additional information about you (naturalization applicant)
– Applicant’s declaration, certification and signature
– Interpreter information, certification and signature
– Contact information, statement and signature of the person who prepared the application, if other than the applicant
– Signature in the interview
– Waiver of foreign titles
– Pledge of Allegiance
4: Attach the fee payment and submit the form
Form N-400 generally requires payment of a $640 filing fee, so be sure to include the appropriate amount with your application. Once you have completed all sections and attached the required evidence, send the form to the appropriate address.
5: Keep a copy of the documents sent and follow up on any additional information.
It is important to keep a copy of all documents submitted (including the completed form) for your records. Also, be sure to follow any additional instructions provided by USCIS, such as scheduling and attending biometrics appointments or interviews, if required.
An immigration attorney can analyze your case and accompany you every step of the way. Don’t risk your future by dealing with the immigration system on your own. At Zava Immigration Law Group we can help you. Contact our professionals today and ensure the success of your naturalization application.
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Necessary supporting documents for Form N-400
As mentioned above, you will need to submit certain supporting documentation for your naturalization application. Some of these essential documents are:
- Copy of your Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- Copy of your marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Form N-426Application for Certification of Military or Naval Service (if you are applying for naturalization based on your military service)
- DD Form 214, NGB Form 22 or discharge orders (if you are applying for naturalization based on your military service and have separated from military service)
- Copy of your official military orders (if you are applying for naturalization based on military service and are currently on active duty)
- Evidence of foreign employment of your citizen spouse (if applying under section 319(b))
- Two passport photographs (if residing outside the U.S.)
Gathering supporting documentation is essential to any immigration process, but it can be overwhelming. Therefore, it is essential to have the help of an immigration attorney to assist you in this critical task. At Zava Immigration Law Group we can help you. Talk to a lawyer and let’s get your documents in order.
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Where to file my Form N-400
You can file your Form N-400 online through the USCIS website or mail it to the appropriate address depending on the state in which you reside. In the following table you will find the necessary information:
| If you reside in… | You must send your form to… |
| Connecticut Delaware District of Columbia Florida Georgia Maine Maryland Massachusetts New Hampshire New Jersey New York North Carolina Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina Vermont Virginia West Virginia | USCIS Secure Location in Elgin (Lockbox) |
| Deliveries by United States Postal Service (USPS): USCIS Attn: N-400 P.O. Box 4060 Carol Stream, IL 60197-4060 | |
| Courier deliveries by FedEx, UPS or DHL: USCIS Attn: N-400 (Box 4060) 2500 Westfield Drive Elgin, IL 60124-7836 | |
| Alabama Alaska American Samoa Arizona Armed Forces America Armed Forces Europe Armed Forces Pacific California Colorado Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Guam Hawaii Idaho Kansas Kentucky Marshall Islands Micronesia Minnesota Mississippi Montana Nebraska Nevada New Mexico North Dakota Oregon Palau Puerto Rico South Dakota Tennessee U.S. Virgin Islands Utah Washington Wyoming | USCIS Secure Location in Phoenix (Lockbox) |
| Deliveries by United States Postal Service (USPS): USCIS Attn: N-400 P.O. Box 21251 Phoenix, AZ 85036-1251 | |
| Courier deliveries by FedEx, UPS or DHL: USCIS Attn: N-400 (Box 21251) 2108 E. Elliot Rd. Tempe, AZ 85284-1806 | |
| Arkansas Louisiana Oklahoma Texas | USCIS Secure Location in Dallas (Lockbox) |
| Deliveries by United States Postal Service (USPS): USCIS Attn: N-400 P.O. Box 660060 Dallas, TX 75266-0060 | |
| Courier deliveries by FedEx, UPS or DHL: USCIS Attn: N-400 (Box 660060) 2501 S State Hwy 121 Business Suite 400 Lewisville, TX 75067-8003 | |
| Illinois Indiana Iowa Michigan Missouri Ohio Wisconsin | USCIS Secure Location in Chicago (Lockbox) |
| Deliveries by United States Postal Service (USPS): USCIS Attn: N-400 P.O. Box 4380 Chicago, IL 60680-4380 | |
| Courier deliveries by FedEx, UPS or DHL: USCIS Attn: N-400 (Box 4380) 131 S. Dearborn, 3rd Floor Chicago, IL 60603-5517 |
What is the certificate of naturalization in the U.S.?
The certificate of naturalization is a document issued to lawful permanent residents who become U.S. citizens. It serves as proof of your citizenship in the United States.
How long does the naturalization process take?
On average, the naturalization process usually takes between 7 and 12 months. However, several factors can affect the length of the USCIS process. Therefore, it is extremely important to seek professional help and avoid any mistakes that may hinder your application.
Can I obtain U.S. citizenship and keep my nationality of origin?
Yes, the United States allows multiple citizenship. However, some countries do not allow dual citizenship, so you may have to renounce or lose your home nationality if you apply for U.S. citizenship. Therefore, it is best to seek the assistance of an immigration attorney.
Can I apply for adjustment of status while outside the U.S.?
No, only persons who are physically present in the U.S. can begin the adjustment of status process. However, there are other immigration processes for residents abroad, such as consular processing.
Can I work and travel while my adjustment of status application is being processed?
Yes, you may apply for a work permit (Form I-765) and a travel document (Form I-131) while your application for Adjustment of Status is being processed. However, it is important to note that there may be restrictions and the application process may require additional time.
Adjust your status and obtain citizenship with professional help.
As we have seen, Form N-400 is the first step in the process of obtaining U.S. citizenship. While this is not particularly complex in itself, factors can affect the length of the process and any errors in your application could hinder or truncate the process.
For this reason, having an immigration attorney to advise and assist you every step of the way is essential. Don’t risk your future by dealing with the immigration system on your own. At Zava Immigration Law Group we can help you get the permanent status you need. Tell us your case today and take the first step towards U.S. citizenship.
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Sources
USCIS – N-400, Application for Naturalization
USCIS – Naturalization through Military Service
USCIS – Apply for Citizenship Online
USCIS – Addresses for Direct Filing of Form N-400
Other Resources
How to Apply for Permanent Residency for a Family Member, Step by Step
I-130 Family Petition: What You Should Know
Exploring the Different Categories of Family Residency in the U.S.
Sibling-To-Sibling Petition: Requirements, Steps And More
Approved Juvenile Status: How to Start on the Road to Permanent Residency
Consular Processing: A Step-By-Step Detailed Guide
Consular Interview For Residency: Everything You Need To Know
