If you lost, damaged, or never received your original certificate, you can request a certificate of citizenship replacement by filing Form N-565, Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Many people need to replace a certificate of citizenship when applying for a U.S. passport, updating Social Security records, or proving citizenship for employment or family matters. The process is straightforward. However, small mistakes can delay approval for months. Below, you’ll learn valid reasons to request a replacement, how much it costs, and how long it takes.
What You'll Learn
Who Needs a Certificate of Citizenship Replacement?
USCIS issues a Certificate of Citizenship to certain individuals who acquired or derived citizenship through their parents. If that document is no longer usable, USCIS instructs applicants to file Form N-565 to request a replacement.
You may need a certificate of citizenship replacement if:
- Your original certificate was lost or stolen
- Your certificate was damaged or destroyed
- USCIS printed incorrect information on the document
- You legally changed your name after issuance
USCIS explains in the Form N-565 instructions that applicants must select the correct reason for replacement. Choosing the wrong category can cause delays.
Important: If you became a citizen but never received a Certificate of Citizenship, do not file Form N-565. USCIS requires you to file Form N-600, Application for Certificate of Citizenship, to request your first certificate. Form N-565 is only for replacing an already issued document.
How to Get a Replacement Certificate of Citizenship
USCIS requires applicants to file Form N-565 either online or by mail, depending on eligibility and filing preference. The agency reviews your application, verifies your original citizenship record, and issues a new certificate if approved.
Complete Form N-565 Accurately
USCIS states that Form N-565 must include your:
- Full legal name
- Date and place of birth
- Certificate number (if available)
- A-Number (if applicable)
- Explanation for replacement request
You must choose the correct replacement category. USCIS may deny the application if the reason does not match your evidence.
If you want help preparing Form N-565 correctly, CitizenPath provides an affordable preparation service to ensure accuracy and avoid delays. Learn more about the easy-to-use Citizenship Document Replacement Package →
Gather Required Supporting Documents
USCIS requires documentation that supports your replacement request. The specific evidence depends on your situation.
For example:
- If your certificate was stolen, USCIS recommends including a police report if available.
- For name changes, USCIS requires a court order, marriage certificate, or other legal document.
- If your certificate was damaged, you must submit the original damaged document when possible.
USCIS will reject incomplete applications. Therefore, review the official Form N-565 instructions carefully before submitting your request.
Pay the USCIS Filing Fee
Most applicants must be the full N-565 filing fee. When filing by paper, you'll pay the fee by credit card (Form G-1450) or ACH debit (G-1650). You'll have similar options when paying for certificate of citizenship replacement online.
Some applicants may qualify for a fee waiver based on income or receipt of certain public benefits. If approved, USCIS will waive the filing fee for the replacement certificate. To learn whether you qualify, see our guide to Form I-912 →
How Long Does Certificate of Citizenship Replacement Take?
Processing times vary by USCIS service center and workload. For perspective, USCIS publishes historical processing times.
Most applicants wait several months for a decision. After filing, you can expect:
| Stage | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Receipt Notice | USCIS confirms it received your application. |
| Biometrics (if required) | Fingerprinting may be scheduled. |
| Decision | USCIS mails a new certificate if approved. |
For a closer look at what happens after filing the application for a replacement citizenship certificate, see our Form N-565 processing time →
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many certificate of citizenship replacement delays happen because of avoidable errors. USCIS reviews each Form N-565 carefully. These are the most common issues.
- Choosing the wrong filing reason.USCIS requires the replacement category to match your supporting documents. If you select the wrong reason, your case may be delayed or denied.
- Confusing Form N-565 with Form N-600.Form N-600 is a request for an initial certificate. If you already became a citizen and only need a replacement certificate, you must file Form N-565.
- Failing to include legal name change documents.USCIS requires certified court orders, marriage certificates, or divorce decrees when correcting a name.
- Submitting the wrong filing fee. USCIS rejects applications with incorrect payment amounts or improper payment methods.
Careful preparation helps prevent unnecessary delays.
Apply with confidence using CitizenPath. Our affordable, easy-to-use service helps you prepare Form N-565 correctly and includes a personalized checklist of required documents. Learn more about our Citizenship Document Replacement Package →
FAQs About Certificate of Citizenship Replacement
How CitizenPath Makes Certificate Replacement Easier
Certificate of citizenship replacement requires Form N-565, proper documentation, and the correct filing fee. Filing accurately helps prevent delays.
If you want extra confidence before submitting your application, CitizenPath can help you prepare Form N-565 correctly.
CitizenPath provides simple, affordable, step-by-step guidance through several USCIS immigration forms. Individuals, attorneys and non-profits use the service on desktop or mobile device to prepare immigration forms accurately, avoiding costly delays. CitizenPath allows users to try the service for free and provides a 100% money-back guarantee that USCIS will approve the application or petition. Get your application completedly quickly and accurately with the Citizenship Document Replacement Package (Form N-565).
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