Naturalization Proceedings
10 Steps to Naturalization
Understanding the Process of Becoming a U.S. Citizen
In this section, you will find a general description of the naturalization application process. Before you apply, be sure that you meet all eligibility requirements and check if you qualify for any exceptions and accommodations. USCIS has also developed responses to commonly asked questions about citizenship and the naturalization process.
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Step 1. Determine if you are already a U.S. citizen
Step 2. Determine if you are eligible to become a U.S. citizen
Step 3. Prepare your Form N-400, Application for Naturalization
Step 4. Submit your Form N-400 and pay your fees
Step 5. Go to your biometrics appointment, if applicable
Step 6. Complete the interview
Step 7. Receive a decision from USCIS on your Form N-400
Step 8. Receive a notice to take the Oath of Allegiance
Step 9. Take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States
Step 10. Understanding U.S. citizenship
Additional Resources
Application Denied
You will receive a notice from USCIS explaining the reason for your Form N-400 denial. If you believe that USCIS incorrectly denied your Form N-400, you may request a hearing to appeal this decision.
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WHAT TO DO: The denial notice you receive will have instructions on how to appeal the USCIS decision by filing Form N-336, Request for a Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings. Visit uscis.gov/n-336 for more information.
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You MUST file Form N-336 with the appropriate fee within 30 days of the Form N-400 decision date. If a request for hearing is not filed within the time allowed, the denial decision is final.
FORM N - 400
The N-400 form is used to apply for US citizenship through the naturalization process. It is specifically for lawful permanent residents of the United States who meet the eligibility requirements and wish to request citizenship. The form includes a series of questions about eligibility, personal information, marital history, children, criminal activities, and the oath of allegiance to the United States. The filing fee for the form is $640, along with an $85 biometric fee, making a total of $725 in applicable cases. The form can be filed online or by mail, and applicants are generally required to submit biometrics unless the requirement is waived.
FORM N - 336
The N-336 form is a request for a hearing on a decision in naturalization proceedings. It is used to appeal a denial of an application for naturalization. The form must be filled out completely and accurately for the request for an appeal hearing to be processed. It is seven pages long and requires basic information such as name, address, date of birth, place of birth, alien registration number (if applicable), and signature. The form is accompanied by evidence and/or a legal brief that supports the applicant's position, and it must be filed within 30 days of receiving the Notice of Denial. The filing fee for the form is $700.
FORM I 485
To obtain a green card in the United States, the primary form to use is the Form I-485, also known as the "Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status." This form is used to apply for lawful permanent resident status while in the United States. In addition to the Form I-485, most people who apply for a green card will also need to complete an immigrant petition, which is typically filed on their behalf by a sponsor. The specific form for the immigrant petition depends on the applicant's individual situation, such as whether they are being sponsored by a family member or an employer. The Form I-130, "Petition for Alien Relative," is one example of an immigrant petition form. Therefore, the combination of the Form I-485 and the appropriate immigrant petition form is typically used to apply for a green card in the United States.
Form I-589 is the Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal in the United States. It is used to apply for asylum and for withholding of removal (formerly called "withholding of deportation"). The form is used by individuals who are not U.S. citizens and are physically present in the United States to apply for protection in the form of asylum or withholding of removal. The application is submitted to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and is an important step in the process of seeking asylum in the United States. The form must be completed in English, and the applicant must provide specific information about their personal circumstances and the basis for their request for asylum or withholding of removal. The form is available on the USCIS website, and there are specific instructions for where to file the form based on the applicant's individual circumstances. The latest version of the form is dated 03/01/23, and it is important to use the most up-to-date edition of the form when applying. The form is submitted without a filing fee, and it is essential to ensure that the application is correctly submitted to avoid delays in the processing of the asylum claim.