Breaking Down the N-400
[Note: This article has been updated to reflect the USCIS fee changes as of April 1, 2024.]
Setting understandable expectations and finding the right support to have a successful outcome can give you the best chance at getting your citizenship. One Percent for America (OPA) can be your ally to help pay for your USCIS application fee. With our community lending 1% interest immigration loan you can complete and pay for your USCIS application at once and pay back the loan with manageable monthly payments.
Knowing how to fill the citizenship application and what to do after you submit is part of what a local nonprofit can help you with. To get you started, we break down everything about the most common citizenship application form: the N-400. After reading this article, head to our organizations resources to find a nonprofit near you to fill or revise your N-400 and make sure everything is correct to submit your application.
What is the N-400 Form?
Form N-400, or Application for Naturalization, is a government form used by green card holders who are ready to apply for U.S. citizenship after meeting the necessary requirements. To make sure you are eligible for U.S. citizenship, use the USCIS’ Naturalization Eligibility Tool: Naturalization Eligibility Tool | USCIS. Filing this form with USCIS is the first step to becoming an American citizen and going through "naturalization."
How Long is the N-400 Processing Time?
Currently, the processing time for N-400 applications is between six to 24 months. Depending on the USCIS office that receives your application, these waiting times may change. To avoid any delays in your citizenship application process, your application must be complete, filled accurately, and including any supporting documents requested as the application explains. If any of your documents is in another language, they must be translated to English by a certified translator.
If you make any mistakes in your application or miss sending any documents, your application process may be extended, or your citizenship application may be rejected. You can check field office processing times on the USCIS website and anticipate what your N-400 processing wait period may be: www.egov.uscis.gov/processing-times
How Much Does the N-400 Cost?
The filing fee for an N-400 application is $760 if filed by mail and $710 if filed online. There is no longer a separate biometric services fee. This fee is non-refundable, so if your application is approved or denied you will not receive your money back. If you make mistakes in your application and it is returned, you may also need to apply and pay the fee again. For this reason, making sure your application is filled correctly is extremely important. Some applicants are eligible for a reduction or waiver of the fee. If you are approved for a fee waiver your fee would be $0, if you are approved for a fee reduction your fee would be $380.
Who is eligible for the N-400 Form?
Immigrants who already have a green card and fulfill the USCIS requirements can use this form. You must also:
- Be of the minimum required age, 18-years old
- Continuously and physically live in the United States as a green card holder for five years. If you are married you must have had a green card for three years
- Establish residency in the state or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) district where they intend to apply
- Have “good moral character”
- Be proficient in basic spoken and written English and demonstrate knowledge of U.S. history and government
- Swear allegiance to the United States
What are the N-400 Documents?
It is important to include all required documents in your application. These include:
- A copy of both sides of your green card
- Application fee payment
- Some applicants must submit additional supporting documents based on their case. These include:
- Proof of your current marital status, if you’re married or were previously married (marriage certificate, divorce papers, annulment certificate(s), and/or death certificate(s) for former spouses)
- Two 2-inch-by-2-inch passport-style photos, if you live and are applying from abroad
- Form N-426, officially called the “Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service,” if you’re applying for citizenship based on your military service
- Form N-648, officially called the “Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions,” if you’re applying for an exemption to the U.S. citizenship test based on a qualifying medical condition
What Happens After Filing the N-400?
Once you submitted your application and fee to USCIS you will wait to hear back from USCIS about the status of your application. You will receive letters with your biometrics appointment, interview and exam appointment, then a decision letter. During this waiting period you can focus on practicing or improving your English language skills and study the civics and history information needed to pass your exams.
Every day counts while you’re waiting to hear back from USCIS, so there is no time wasted even if your processing period takes 12 months or more. Being prepared and using community resources, like OPA, is the best way to make sure you become a citizen.
N-400 FAQ’s
What is the N-400 form and how do I know if I am eligible to apply?
The N-400 form is the application for naturalization used by green card holders seeking U.S. citizenship. To determine if you are eligible to apply, you can use the USCIS' Naturalization Eligibility Tool. Generally, you must be at least 18 years old, have continuously and physically lived in the United States as a green card holder for five years (three years if married), establish residency in the state or USCIS district where you intend to apply, have good moral character, be proficient in basic spoken and written English, demonstrate knowledge of U.S. history and government, and swear allegiance to the United States.
How long does it take to process the N-400 form?
Currently, the processing time for N-400 applications is between six to 24 months, depending on the USCIS office that receives your application. To avoid any delays, your application must be complete, filled accurately, and include any supporting documents requested as the application explains.
How much does the N-400 form cost?
The filing fee for an N-400 application is $760 if filed by mail or $710 if filed online. This fee is non-refundable, so if your application is approved or denied, you will not receive your money back. Some applicants are eligible for a reduction or waiver of the fee, and it is important to learn about your payment options and have a plan to pay your application and pay a second application fee if needed.
Note: This article has been updated to reflect the USCIS fee changes as of April 1st, 2024.
The information provided on www.onepercentforamerica.org is intended for general informational purposes only. It should not be considered as professional advice or a substitute for seeking professional guidance.
