What You Should Know About the N400 Application for Naturalization
Many immigrants travel to the United States with the hope of becoming a citizen. However, the requirements for the N400 application for naturalization are not always clear.
Do you qualify to become a citizen of the US? What does the naturalization process involve? The following guide provides answers to these questions and other concerns related to citizenship and naturalization.
Keep reading to learn more or contact us at N400 Harbor Immigration Law to discuss your immigration status.
Table of Contents
What is the N400 Application for Naturalization?
The N400 application for naturalization is the application form that you must complete when applying for US citizenship. The form can be printed and submitted in the mail or completed online.
Who Qualifies for US Citizenship?
The following individuals may qualify for US citizenship:
- Children of US citizens
- Spouses of US citizens
- US military members
- Lawful permanent residents
Lawful permanent residents who have lived in the US for at least five years may qualify for the naturalization process.
Children and spouses of US citizens can also qualify for the application process. You can complete an online form to determine eligibility for US citizenship.
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website includes an online tool for reviewing eligibility for naturalization.
Naturalization vs. Acquisition
Naturalization and acquisition are separate paths toward US citizenship. Naturalization is the legal process used to grant US citizenship to permanent residents who meet specific requirements.
Acquisition is the legal process used to grant US citizenship to children of US citizens. This process applies to children at birth who are born to US citizens or older children under the age of 18.
How to Apply for Naturalization
Applying for naturalization involves multiple steps. The process may also vary depending on your current immigration status and eligibility criteria. However, the application process typically involves these steps:
- Deciding how to file – online vs mail
- Preparing the filing fee
- Gathering initial evidence
- Submitting your paperwork
Keep in mind that lawyers are available to help with these steps. Working with the immigration lawyers at N400 Harbor Immigration Law can save you the hassle of dealing with the naturalization process alone.
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1. Deciding How to File
(Online vs Mail)
Filing online offers the convenience of submitting documents electronically. You may submit your information faster and decrease the risk of delays.
However, submitting a paper application makes it easier to review every detail and double-check your supporting documents before sending everything.
2. Preparing the filing fee
You also need to submit a filing fee. The base filing fee for the N400 application for naturalization is $640.
You may also need to pay an $85 biometric fee, which increases the total to $725.
Applicants above the age of 75 do not need to pay the biometric fee. Military applicants are exempt from all fees.
The filing fee can be paid with a money order, cashier’s check, personal check, or credit card.
3. Gathering Initial Evidence
The evidence needed to prove eligibility for US citizenship depends on your status. For example, the eligibility requirements vary for those married to US citizens compared to lawful permanent residents who have lived in the US for at least five years.
If you are obtaining US citizenship through marriage, you must provide proof of continuous residence in the US For at least the past three years instead of five.
Other general requirements include:
- Possessing the ability to write, read, and speak English
- Understanding the principles of the US government
- Understanding the basics of US history
- Being at least 18 years of age
Those applying for US citizenship must also be of good moral character, which means that a criminal record can hurt your eligibility for naturalization. You also need to take an oath of allegiance to the United States.
Understanding these requirements can be a challenge, which is why many immigrants choose to work with immigration attorneys. Contact us at N400 Harbor Immigration Law for assistance with your application.
Some of the supporting documents that you need include photographs and a photocopy of the document used to establish your immigration status.
For example, lawful permanent residents need to submit a copy of their permanent resident card. A US military member needs to submit evidence of military service.
An immigrant seeking citizenship through marriage needs to provide a photocopy of the document verifying their marital status.
4. Submitting Your Paperwork
You can fill out the form online or submit a paper application. The application includes close to 20 pages and multiple sections. You also need to include your supporting documents, such as a photocopy of your permanent resident card.
If you submit the application by mail, you need to include the filing fee with the application. If you submit the application online, you can pay the fee online.
When to Seek Help with Your Path to Naturalization
You may want to seek help if you have any concerns about your eligibility for naturalization or acquisition.
Here are a few of the reasons to consider working with immigration lawyers to become a US citizen:
- Appeal your denial of Form N-400 Application
- Receive help understanding Form N-400
- Review re-entry permit requirements
- Avoid the risk of mistakes
- Eliminate the stress of applying
If you have recently been denied after submitting the N400 application for naturalization, you may have the right to appeal the decision. We can help determine your next step.
Why Choose Us for Legal Assistance with Naturalization?
Working with a qualified law firm that specializes in immigration matters may decrease your risk of complications during the naturalization process. An experienced lawyer from N400 Harbor Immigration Law can walk you through every step.
Becoming a US citizen is a serious decision with a major commitment. You also need to meet stringent eligibility requirements. For help with any aspect of the N400 application for naturalization, contact the experts at N400 Harbor Immigration Law.