Preparing for the naturalization process can feel overwhelming, but having the right documents ready will make it much smoother. Use this N-400 document checklist to ensure you have everything you need. By following these guidelines and using CitizenPath’s resources, you can confidently navigate the journey to U.S. citizenship.
What should I know before starting my application?
What information do I need to prepare the N-400 application?
Which supporting documents do I submit with Form N-400?
Are there additional documents if applying based on marriage to a citizen?
What else should I know before getting started?
How can CitizenPath help with my path to citizenship?
Understanding the N-400 Form
The citizenship application, officially known as Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, is used by lawful permanent residents to apply for U.S. citizenship. Completing this form accurately and providing all necessary documents is vital to avoid delays or rejections. It's important to note that the list of supporting documents for your N-400 document checklist will vary depending on the basis of your application. For the purposes of this article, we are focused on applicants naturalizing based on the standard requirements (5 years of continuous residence) and the marriage provision (3 years of continuous residence while married to a U.S. citizen). Let's walk through the essential documents you need to gather before preparing and submitting your application.
Gather Information to Prepare Form N-400
Preparing to fill out the N-400 application involves gathering several documents and information to ensure a smooth application process. Taking the time to collect all necessary information in advance can significantly ease the preparation of your application. These documents verify your eligibility and provide essential details to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Being well-organized and having everything ready beforehand can streamline the process, making it more efficient and less stressful.
Permanent Resident Card (green card)
You need your Alien Registration Number and date that you become a permanent resident. You can find both of these on your green card. If your green card is expired, you may prepare Form N-400. However, if your green card has been lost, stolen, or destroyed, you’ll need to file Form I-90 to replace your card before applying for citizenship.
Travel Dates
If you made any trips outside the U.S. during the five years that precede the application, you’ll need to document the dates of each trip (of 24 hours or more). It can be difficult to remember specific travel dates. Check credit card statements, frequent flyer records and other receipts to estimate dates to the best of your ability. This requirement is reduced to three years if applying on the basis of marriage to a U.S. citizen.
Selective Service Registration Information
U.S. law requires that every U.S. male between the ages of 18 and 26 register for the Selective Service. This requirement applies to citizens, permanent residents, refugees, asylees, and even undocumented aliens. It does not apply to women or any foreign nationals in the U.S. with nonimmigrant visas (e.g. tourists, students, business, etc.). Online verification provides a quick way to access your Selective Service registration number and date of registration. If you failed to register for Selective Service as required, understand how this affects you before file N-400.
5 Years of Address Information
You’ll need to list your address(es) where you lived for the past five years (or three years if you have been married to a U.S. citizen during that time).
5 Years of Employment/Education Information
You’ll need to list your job and/or school information (organization name, location, time period) for the past five years (or three years if you have been married to a U.S. citizen during that time). Employment and education are not requirements. The information will be used for a background check.
Information about Your Current and Former Spouses
If applicable, you’ll need to list information about your current spouse and any former spouses. Information includes: name, address, birth date, marriage date, immigration status, country of citizenship and A-number if applicable.
Information about Your Children
If applicable, you’ll need to list information about your sons and daughters (even if they are deceased or not living with you). Information includes: name, birth date, country of birth and A-number if applicable.
N-400 Document Checklist for Supporting Evidence
Collecting the correct supporting documents for your N-400, Application for Naturalization, is crucial for a successful application. These documents provide USCIS with the necessary proof to verify your eligibility and ensure all information is accurate. Missing or incorrect documents can lead to delays, requests for additional information, or even denial of your application. By thoroughly gathering and organizing your documents, you demonstrate your preparedness and attention to detail, which can significantly enhance the likelihood of a smooth and timely approval process. Typical supporting documents on your N-400 document checklist include:
Permanent Resident Card (green card)
Submit a photocopy of the front and back of your green card.
Two Passport-Style Photos
Include two identical color photos taken within the last 30 days. The photos should be 2"x2" and conform to the State Department passport photo standards.
Marriage Status Document
Submit a photocopy of your current legal marital status document. Examples of acceptable documents include a marriage certificate or divorce decree.
Proof of Name Change
If your name is different than your name at birth, provide copies of legal name change documents (such as marriage certificates or court orders) to evidence the connection between your identities.
Evidence of Spousal and/or Child Support
If you have children who don't live with you or you have an ex-spouse who you pay alimony, provide proof that you are meeting these obligations. Examples of acceptable documents include cancled checks, notarized letters or wage garnishments.
Selective Service Verfication Letter
If the Selective Service requirement applies to you, print an official letter of verification from the Selective Service website.
N-400 Filing Fee
Include your payment for the N-400 filing fee. Certain individuals with a lower income pay only half the normal filing fee. If you qualify for the reduced fee, you'll need to include proof of your income. When using CitizenPath's Naturalization Application Package, we'll help you determine if you qualify for the reduced fee.
Any document containing a foreign language submitted to USCIS must be accompanied by a full certified transation in English.
Remember, this is not a complete list, and it may be different for your situation. Make sure you review the official USCIS instructions or use a service like CitizenPath that gives you a customized N-400 document checklist based on your answers on the application. We'll make it easy.
For applicants that are applying on the basis of marriage to a U.S. citizen, their N-400 document checklist includes some additional items
Certain permanent residents are eligible for naturalization after just three years if they were married to a U.S. citizen for this entire time. The accelerated citizenship requirements do have some additional supporting document requirements to qualify.
Proof of Spouse’s U.S. Citizenship
Provide evidence that your spouse has been a U.S. citizen for at least three years at the time you file Form N-400. Examples of acceptable documents include: birth certificate, U.S. Passport (if valid and unexpired), Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of Citizenship, or Form FS-240 Consular Report of Birth Abroad.
Proof of Valid Marriage
Provide evidence of a legal marriage. The applicant must establish validity of their marriage. In general, the legal validity of a marriage is determined by the law of the place where the marriage was celebrated. Examples of acceptable documents include: marriage certificate or other official civil record to establish that the marriage is legal and valid.
Proof That Prior Marriages Were Terminated
If either spouse had a prior marriage, submit evidence that proves all prior marriages were terminated prior to the current marriage. Examples of acceptable documents include: divorce decree, annulment and death certificate.
Proof of Living in Marital Union
Provide evidence that you and your spouse have lived in marital union for at least three years at the time you file your Form N-400. Examples of acceptable documents that have both spouses’ names include: joint bank and credit card statements, leases or mortgages, birth certificates of children, insurance policies, IRS-certified copies of the income tax forms that you and your spouse filed for the past three years (or an IRS tax return transcript for the last three years).
Beyond the N-400 Document Checklist
This N-400 document checklist covers the items required in typical applications for naturalization. Please refer to your personalized filing instructions from CitizenPath or the USCIS filing instructions for directions on your specific situation. For example, additional documentation may be required if you have overdue taxes, have a past arrest or citation, or have traveled extensively (such as trips over 6 months) abroad.
You may submit photocopies of all of documents mentioned above when filing Form N-400 (unless otherwise indicated). We always recommend that our customers take an original to their naturalization interview. Rarely are original documents requested. But if the USCIS officer needs confirmation, you’ll be prepared to address the situation. Otherwise, your case may be delayed.
How CitizenPath Can Help
CitizenPath provides simple, affordable, step-by-step guidance through USCIS immigration applications like the N-400, Application for Naturalization. Individuals, attorneys and non-profits use the service on desktop or mobile device to prepare immigration forms accurately, avoiding costly delays, and optimizing approvals.
At CitizenPath, we are committed to making the naturalization process easier for you. Here’s how we can assist:
Simple Guided Support
Our step-by-step software makes the N-400 application easy. It ensures you understand every part of the application. Upon completion, you get a custom N-400 document checklist to ensure you submit the correct supporting documents for your situation. Get started for free >
Expert Error Checking
The service provides instant alerts if there's a problem, minimizing your chance of making an error. We provide a 100% money-back guarantee that USCIS will approve the application when using our system.
5-Star Customer Support
Finally, knowledgable customer support is available to applicants using our service. See our reviews. You get peace of mind, knowing that help is available if you encounter any issues.
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