Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, is the official form you file with USCIS to become a U.S. citizen. It has 20 sections covering your background, residency, employment, family, and moral character. The current filing fee is $760 (as of 2026). Processing time is typically 6-12 months.
Key facts about Form N-400:
- 20 sections, ~20 pages long
- Filing fee: $760 (as of 2026, verify current fee at uscis.gov)
- File online at my.uscis.gov or by mail
- Processing time: 6-12 months (varies by USCIS field office)
- Required: copy of green card, passport-style photos, supporting documents
- Some applicants qualify for fee waivers or reduced fees
Are You Eligible?
To apply for naturalization, you generally must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a permanent resident (green card holder) for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen)
- Have lived in the U.S. for at least 30 months of the past 5 years
- Have lived in your current state for at least 3 months
- Be able to read, write, and speak basic English
- Have knowledge of U.S. history and government (the civics test)
- Be a person of good moral character
- Be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance
There are exceptions for military members and other special cases. Check uscis.gov for the most current eligibility requirements.
What the N-400 Asks
The application is detailed but straightforward. You will provide information about:
Personal Information
- Full legal name, any previous names
- Date of birth, country of birth
- Social Security Number
- Current address and contact information
Residence and Employment
- Addresses for the past 5 years
- Employment history for the past 5 years
- Time spent outside the United States (all trips)
Family
- Marital status and spouse information
- Number of children (including those outside the U.S.)
Good Moral Character
- Criminal history (arrests, charges, convictions — even if dismissed)
- Tax filing history
- Whether you have ever been deported or removed
- Whether you have ever claimed to be a U.S. citizen
Oath of Allegiance
- Willingness to support the Constitution
- Willingness to take the full Oath of Allegiance
- Willingness to bear arms or perform noncombatant service if required
Be completely honest. USCIS will verify your answers. Providing false information can result in denial and may affect your immigration status.
How to File
Online Filing
Most people can file the N-400 online at uscis.gov. Online filing allows you to:
- Complete the form at your own pace
- Upload supporting documents
- Pay the filing fee electronically
- Track your case status
Paper Filing
You can also mail a paper form to USCIS. Download Form N-400 from the USCIS website, complete it, and mail it with the required fee and documents.
Filing Fee
The current filing fee includes the application fee and biometrics. Check uscis.gov for the current amount. Fee waivers are available for applicants who qualify based on income.
After You File
1. Receipt Notice
USCIS sends a receipt confirming they received your application. Keep this for your records.
2. Biometrics Appointment
You will be scheduled to provide fingerprints, a photo, and a signature at a local USCIS Application Support Center. This is used for a background check.
3. Interview
You will be scheduled for an in-person interview at your local USCIS office. This includes the English and civics tests.
4. Decision
After your interview, USCIS will approve, continue (request more info), or deny your application.
5. Naturalization Ceremony
If approved, you attend a ceremony where you take the Oath of Allegiance and receive your Certificate of Naturalization. You are now a U.S. citizen.
Timeline
Processing times vary by location, but a typical timeline is:
| Step | Approximate Time |
|---|---|
| File N-400 | Day 0 |
| Receipt notice | 2-4 weeks |
| Biometrics appointment | 1-2 months |
| Interview | 6-18 months after filing |
| Ceremony | Days to weeks after interview |
Check egov.uscis.gov/processing-times for current wait times at your local office.
Tips
- Start studying early. Do not wait until your interview is scheduled. Use MyCitizenPrep to begin preparing the day you file.
- Keep copies of everything. Your application, receipt notices, and supporting documents.
- Report address changes. If you move after filing, notify USCIS immediately.
- Be honest. On the application and during the interview. Honesty is a requirement of "good moral character."
- Check your eligibility carefully. Apply too early and your application will be denied.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Form N-400?
Form N-400 is the official Application for Naturalization that you file with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to apply for U.S. citizenship. It is the first step in the naturalization process.
How much does it cost to file Form N-400?
The current filing fee for Form N-400 is $760 as of 2026 (verify the current fee at uscis.gov). This includes the application fee and biometrics fee. Some low-income applicants may qualify for a fee waiver.
How long does Form N-400 take to process?
Processing time typically ranges from 6 to 12 months, but it varies significantly by USCIS field office. Some offices process applications in 4-6 months; others take more than a year.
Can I file Form N-400 online?
Yes. You can file Form N-400 online at my.uscis.gov by creating a free account. Online filing is generally faster and reduces errors. You can also file by mail, but it takes longer.
What documents do I need to file Form N-400?
You need a copy of your green card, two passport-style photos (if filing by mail), and any documents related to your eligibility (marriage certificate, divorce decree, tax returns, military records, etc.). The full list is at uscis.gov/n-400.
Who is eligible to file Form N-400?
Most permanent residents are eligible after 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen), provided they meet residency, physical presence, good moral character, and English/civics requirements.
Key Takeaways
- The N-400 is the application to become a U.S. citizen
- Must be a green card holder for 5 years (3 if married to a citizen)
- Must be 18+, able to speak English, and pass the civics test
- File online at uscis.gov
- Process: File → Biometrics → Interview → Ceremony
- Typical timeline: 6-18 months from filing to ceremony
- Start studying for the civics test as soon as you file