The naturalization (N-400) application requires essential documents such as a copy of your permanent resident card (Green Card), evidence of marital status, and proof of residence and physical presence in the United States. Supporting documents may also include tax returns, Selective Service registration (if applicable), and any criminal records or court dispositions. Properly gathering and submitting these documents ensures a smoother review process by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
What Documents Are Needed for Naturalization (N-400) Application?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Conditional Permanent Resident Evidence | Conditional permanent residents must submit Form I-551, the conditional green card, as evidence when applying for naturalization with Form N-400 to prove lawful permanent resident status. Supporting documents may include a copy of the marriage certificate if the status was granted through marriage, and evidence of the removal of conditions, such as Form I-751 approval notice. |
| 2 | Certified Court Disposition | A Certified Court Disposition is a required document for the N-400 Naturalization application, providing an official record of any criminal history, including charges, adjudications, and final outcomes. This document ensures USCIS accurately evaluates an applicant's eligibility by verifying the resolution of any offenses in the applicant's legal background. |
| 3 | Selective Service Registration Proof | Applicants for naturalization (Form N-400) must provide proof of Selective Service registration if they are male and aged 18 to 26, as required by U.S. law. This documentation includes a Selective Service registration card, a status information letter from the Selective Service System, or evidence of exemption for those who did not register when required. |
| 4 | Continuous Residence Documentation | Continuous residence documentation for the N-400 application includes tax returns, lease agreements, employment records, and utility bills demonstrating uninterrupted physical presence in the United States for the required period. Providing evidence such as travel records, including boarding passes and passports with entry and exit stamps, further supports the applicant's continuous residence claim. |
| 5 | Physical Presence Evidence | Evidence of physical presence for the N-400 application includes employment records, tax returns, school transcripts, medical records, and rental or lease agreements that demonstrate continuous residence in the United States. Additionally, utility bills, affidavits from acquaintances, or travel records showing re-entry dates further support the applicant's physical presence during the required period. |
| 6 | Good Moral Character Support Letters | Good Moral Character support letters for the N-400 naturalization application should come from individuals who can attest to the applicant's character, such as employers, community leaders, or clergy, providing detailed examples of honesty, integrity, and lawfulness. These letters must be signed, dated, and include full contact information to serve as credible evidence supporting the applicant's eligibility for citizenship. |
| 7 | Travel History Records | Travel history records, including detailed lists of all international trips taken in the past five years with dates of departure and return, are essential for completing the N-400 naturalization application. Accurate travel documentation helps USCIS verify continuous residence and physical presence requirements critical to naturalization eligibility. |
| 8 | Certified IRS Tax Transcripts | Certified IRS Tax Transcripts are essential documents for the Naturalization (N-400) application, providing proof of income and tax compliance over the required period. Applicants must submit these transcripts to demonstrate their ability to meet continuous residence and good moral character requirements. |
| 9 | Dependent Support Compliance Proof | Proof of dependent support compliance for the N-400 naturalization application must include court orders, divorce decrees, or legal agreements demonstrating child support or spousal support payments. Providing official payment records or statements from relevant government agencies further substantiates compliance with financial obligations. |
| 10 | Medical Disability Waiver Form (N-648) | The Medical Disability Waiver Form (N-648) is a critical document required for certain applicants filing the Naturalization (N-400) application who are unable to meet English and civics requirements due to a medically determinable physical or developmental disability or mental impairment. This form, completed by a licensed medical professional, must detail the nature of the disability and its impact on the applicant's ability to learn or demonstrate English language proficiency and U.S. civics knowledge. |
Introduction to N-400 Naturalization Documentation
The N-400 application is the official form used to apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization. Proper documentation is essential to support your eligibility and complete the application process accurately.
- Proof of Permanent Residency - Include a copy of your Green Card (Form I-551) as evidence of lawful permanent resident status.
- Identity Documents - Submit valid government-issued identification such as a passport or birth certificate to verify your identity.
- Supporting Evidence - Provide additional documents like marriage certificates, tax returns, or selective service registration to confirm eligibility criteria.
Gathering all required documents carefully ensures a smoother review and increases the likelihood of application approval.
Core Identification Documents Needed
What core identification documents are needed for the Naturalization (N-400) application? A completed Form N-400 requires proof of identity and residency status. Essential documents include a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), passport, and State-issued identification.
Proof of Permanent Residency (Green Card)
Proof of permanent residency is a crucial document for the Naturalization (N-400) application. The primary evidence of this status is the Permanent Resident Card, commonly known as the Green Card.
The Green Card must be valid and unexpired at the time of filing the N-400 form. Applicants should submit a clear photocopy of the front and back of this card to demonstrate their lawful permanent resident status.
Evidence of Marital Status and Changes
| Document Type | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Marriage Certificate | Official government-issued certificate showing date and place of marriage. | Proves current marital status when filing for naturalization under a marriage-based category. |
| Divorce Decree | Legal document signed by a court finalizing the dissolution of a marriage. | Confirms termination of previous marriages affecting eligibility or marital status. |
| Death Certificate of Former Spouse | Certified document showing the death of a previous spouse. | Provides evidence that any prior marriage ended due to spouse's death. |
| Separation Agreement | Legal agreement outlining terms between spouses living apart. | Supports claims regarding changes in marital status or living arrangements. |
| Name Change Documentation | Certified court order or marriage certificate reflecting legal name changes. | Validates legal identity matching throughout application process. |
| Evidence of Cohabitation | Joint lease agreements, utility bills, or affidavits from third parties. | Demonstrates bona fide marital relationship status. |
Supporting Documents for Military Service Applicants
The naturalization application (N-400) requires specific supporting documents for military service applicants. These documents verify service history and eligibility for expedited processing.
- Form N-426, Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service - This form must be submitted to confirm honorable service in the U.S. Armed Forces.
- Discharge or Separation Papers (DD-214) - Military personnel must include these documents to prove their service record and discharge status.
- Military Identification Card - Providing this helps establish active duty or reserve military status during the application process.
Documentation for Physical Presence and Residence
Proving physical presence and continuous residence is critical for the N-400 naturalization application. Documentation must clearly demonstrate your time spent and living arrangements in the United States.
- Travel Records - Provide copies of passports with entry and exit stamps to verify dates of physical presence in the U.S.
- Lease or Mortgage Agreements - Submit rental contracts or property ownership documents showing residence during the required period.
- Utility Bills or Official Mail - Include recent bills or government correspondence that confirm your actual address within the country.
Employment and Tax Filing Records
When applying for naturalization using Form N-400, employment and tax filing records play a crucial role in proving continuous residence and good moral character. Gather your recent pay stubs, W-2 forms, and tax returns for the past five years or three years if married to a U.S. citizen.
IRS tax transcripts or copies of filed tax returns may be required to confirm compliance with tax obligations. These documents demonstrate financial responsibility and support the application process for naturalization.
Criminal History and Court Records Requirements
The Naturalization (N-400) application requires applicants to disclose any criminal history and provide relevant court records. Accurate documentation is crucial to avoid delays or denials in the naturalization process.
Applicants must submit certified copies of court dispositions, police reports, and arrest records related to any criminal charges. These documents help USCIS verify the applicant's eligibility and assess their moral character. Failure to provide complete criminal history can result in application rejection or further investigation.
Handling Name Changes in the Application
The N-400 application for naturalization requires submitting documents that verify your identity and immigration status, such as a permanent resident card and passport. When handling name changes, include legal documents like a marriage certificate, court order, or divorce decree that prove the name change. Providing accurate documentation ensures the USCIS updates your records correctly and helps avoid delays in the naturalization process.
What Documents Are Needed for Naturalization (N-400) Application? Infographic
