Form N-400

Application for Naturalization

Filed by lawful permanent residents to apply for United States citizenship through the naturalization process.

Filing Fee

$725 (includes biometrics fee)

Processing Time

8 to 14 months (varies by USCIS field office)

Who Files

Lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) who meet the eligibility requirements for naturalization.

What is Form N-400?

Form N-400 is the application for U.S. citizenship filed by eligible lawful permanent residents. The naturalization process includes demonstrating continuous residence, physical presence, good moral character, knowledge of U.S. civics and history, and the ability to read, write, and speak English. Successful applicants take the Oath of Allegiance and become U.S. citizens.

Key Points

Generally requires 5 years of permanent residency (3 years if married to a U.S. citizen)

Must demonstrate continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S.

English language test and U.S. civics test are part of the interview

Good moral character required for the statutory period

Can file up to 90 days before meeting the residency requirement

Frequently Asked Questions

QWhen can I apply for naturalization?

You can apply for naturalization after 5 years as a lawful permanent resident, or 3 years if you obtained your Green Card through marriage to a U.S. citizen and are still married and living together. You can file up to 90 days before meeting the residency requirement.

QWhat is the civics test?

The civics test consists of up to 10 questions from a list of 100 possible questions about U.S. government and history. You must answer at least 6 out of 10 correctly to pass. Study materials are available for free on the USCIS website. Certain applicants over age 65 with 20+ years of permanent residency qualify for a simplified test.

QCan I keep my original citizenship after naturalizing?

The United States allows dual citizenship, and the naturalization oath does not require you to formally renounce your original citizenship with your home country. However, some countries do not allow dual citizenship, so check your home country's laws. The U.S. will treat you solely as a U.S. citizen regardless.

Practical Tips

Begin studying for the civics and English tests early using the free materials at uscis.gov/citizenship

Gather 5 years of tax returns, travel records, and address history before filing

Do not travel outside the U.S. for extended periods during the application process, as it may affect continuous residence

Related Forms

Form I-485

Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status

Filed by individuals already in the U.S. to adjust their status to permanent resident (Green Card).

Form I-90

Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card

Used to renew or replace an expiring, expired, or damaged Green Card.

Form I-551

Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)

The official document issued to lawful permanent residents as proof of their authorization to live and work permanently in the United States.

Related Visa Types

Green Card

U.S. Permanent Resident Card

Permanent residency in the United States, granting the right to live and work permanently.

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