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Apply for a Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-600)

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If you were born outside the U.S. and acquired citizenship through a parent, Form N-600 is how you request official proof of your status from USCIS.

Ready to Claim Your Citizenship?

Navigating the path to your Certificate of Citizenship doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right guidance and a clear understanding of the process, you can set yourself up for success.

We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the most commonly used form in this journey — the N-600 — so you can move forward with confidence.

What Is Form N-600?

Form N-600, the Application for Certificate of Citizenship, is used by individuals who acquired or derived U.S. citizenship through their parents. It allows you to request a Certificate of Citizenship from USCIS as proof of your status. Check your eligibility on USCIS.gov

What is the processing time for N-600 U.S. Citizenship application?

Processing times for Form N-600 range from 6 to 16 months, depending on the USCIS office. To avoid delays:

Submit a complete and accurate application
Include all required documents
Translate any non-English documents with a certified translator

How Much Does it Cost to apply for a N-600 Certification of Citizenship?

Filing fee: $1,385 for paper filing or $1,335 for online filing
Confirm the current filing fee on the USCIS Fee Schedule
Fee waivers: Available using Form I-912
Important Note: This fee is non-refundable—even if your application is denied or returned due to errors.

Who Can File Form N-600, Application for Certificate of Citizenship?

You may be eligible if:

You were born outside the U.S. and acquired citizenship through a U.S. citizen parent, or
You automatically became a U.S. citizen before age 18 and meet all legal requirements.
Important Note: This form is not for naturalized citizens or those born in the U.S.. If you do not have at least one biological or adopted parent who is a U.S. citizen, or if you already have a U.S. passport, the N-600 application for Certificate of Citizenship may not be for you.

What Documents Do You Need?

Include the following with your application:

Your birth certificate
Your parent’s proof of U.S. citizenship
Your green card or proof of lawful permanent residence
Marriage certificate of your parents (if applicable)
Proof of legal and physical custody (if applicable)
Adoption decree (if applicable)
Application fee payment
If applying from outside the U.S., you must submit two passport-style photos.
All foreign-language documents must include a certified English translation.

What Happens After You File?

After submitting your application:

USCIS may schedule a biometrics appointment (common)
You may be called for an interview (usually with special cases)
If approved, you’ll receive your Certificate of Citizenship
If over 14, you may need to take the Oath of Allegiance

N-600 FAQs

What is Form N-600?

It’s the application to request a Certificate of Citizenship for those who acquired or derived U.S. citizenship through their parents.

How long does it take?

6–16 months, depending on your USCIS field office. Processing times vary by USCIS field office. Check the USCIS Processing Times tool for the most up-to-date estimate.

How much does it cost?

$1,385 for paper filing or $1,335 for online filing. Fee waivers may be available.

The information provided on www.onepercentforamerica.org is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional legal advice.