The N-400 form, officially known as the "Application for Naturalization," is used by eligible green card holders (lawful permanent residents) who want to apply for U.S. citizenship through the naturalization process. Here’s an overview of the key aspects of the N-400 and the naturalization process:

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for naturalization using Form N-400, an applicant must meet the following criteria:

 

• Age: Must be at least 18 years old.

• Permanent Residency: Must be a lawful permanent resident (green card holder).

• Residency and Physical Presence: Must have lived in the U.S. for at least 5 years as a permanent resident (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen). Additionally, the applicant must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months within those 5 years (or 18 months within those 3 years for spouses of U.S. citizens).

• Continuous Residence: Must have lived continuously in the U.S. from the time of application until naturalization.

• Good Moral Character: Must demonstrate good moral character, typically covering the 5 years prior to application (or 3 years for spouses of U.S. citizens).

• English and Civics: Must demonstrate an ability to read, write, and speak basic English and have knowledge of U.S. history and government (civics).

• Attachment to the Constitution: Must be willing to support and defend the United States and its Constitution.

 

Application Process

 

1. Complete and File Form N-400: Applicants must accurately complete the N-400 form and submit it to USCIS, along with the required documentation and filing fee.

2. Biometrics Appointment: After submission, the applicant will receive an appointment notice to have their biometrics (fingerprints) taken. This is used for a background check.

3. Interview: Once the biometrics and preliminary processing are completed, the applicant will be scheduled for an interview with a USCIS officer. During the interview, the officer will test the applicant's English and civics knowledge and review the N-400 application to confirm eligibility.

4. Decision: After the interview, USCIS will make a decision on the naturalization application. The decision can be a grant, a continuation (usually due to a need for additional evidence or a failure to pass the tests), or a denial of citizenship.

5. Oath of Allegiance: If approved, the final step is taking the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony. After taking the oath, the individual is issued a Certificate of Naturalization and becomes a U.S. citizen.

 

Key Considerations

 

• Documentation: Applicants need to gather various documents related to their time in the U.S., status, and moral character.

• Preparation for Tests: It’s advisable to prepare for the English and civics tests using resources available from USCIS and other educational entities.

• Legal Assistance: Given the complexities of the naturalization process, many applicants choose to seek legal assistance to ensure that their application is complete and to handle any legal issues that might arise.

 

Completing the N-400 application accurately and following through with the USCIS process carefully can lead to a successful naturalization, granting all the rights and responsibilities that come with U.S. citizenship.