To submit Form N-400 for naturalization, applicants must provide a completed application, proof of permanent residence such as a Green Card, and evidence of continuous residency and physical presence in the United States. Supporting documents may include a passport, marriage certificate if applicable, tax returns, and records related to any trips outside the U.S. Filing fees and fingerprinting appointments are also required during the submission process.
What Documents Are Required for Naturalization (Form N-400) Submission?
| Number | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Digital Evidence of Continuous Residence | Digital evidence of continuous residence required for Form N-400 submission includes electronic tax returns, utility bills, bank statements, and employment records that demonstrate consistent residence in the U.S. over the statutory period. These digital documents must be verifiable, date-specific, and correspond to the applicant's claimed residence history to satisfy USCIS requirements. |
| 2 | AI-Authenticated Identity Proof | The Form N-400 naturalization application requires submitting government-issued identity documents such as a valid passport, permanent resident card (Green Card), and birth certificate, all verified through AI-authenticated identity proof systems to ensure accuracy and prevent fraud. AI-driven biometric verification, including facial recognition and fingerprint analysis, enhances the validation process of these documents, expediting application approval and maintaining security standards. |
| 3 | Certified e-Translations of Foreign Documents | Certified e-translations of foreign documents are mandatory for the naturalization Form N-400 submission to ensure USCIS accurately reviews non-English records such as birth certificates, marriage licenses, and criminal background documents. These translations must be complete, precise, and accompanied by a certification from the translator affirming their competency and the translation's accuracy. |
| 4 | e-Signed Affidavit of Support | The e-Signed Affidavit of Support is a crucial document required for the Form N-400 naturalization submission, demonstrating the applicant's financial stability and support from a sponsor. This affidavit must be electronically signed by a qualified sponsor who agrees to provide financial assistance, ensuring the applicant will not become a public charge. |
| 5 | Biometrics Appointment Confirmation Receipt | The Biometrics Appointment Confirmation Receipt is a crucial document required when submitting Form N-400 for naturalization, as it verifies the scheduled date and location for fingerprinting and photograph collection. This confirmation ensures that applicants comply with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) biometric screening process essential for background checks. |
| 6 | Blockchain-Verified Birth Certificate | Submitting Form N-400 for naturalization requires a range of documents, including a valid government-issued identification and evidence of residency status; notably, a blockchain-verified birth certificate enhances authenticity by providing a tamper-proof, decentralized record that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) can securely verify. This innovative digital birth certificate streamlines the validation process, reducing the risk of forgery and expediting application review times. |
| 7 | Real-Time Government Agency Sharing Consent | Submitting Form N-400 for naturalization requires providing proof of identity, residency, and lawful permanent resident status, including a Green Card, passport, and tax returns, alongside biometric appointment notices. Applicants must also complete the Real-Time Government Agency Sharing Consent to allow USCIS to verify data instantly with agencies like the FBI, Department of Homeland Security, and Social Security Administration, expediting background checks and eligibility confirmation. |
| 8 | Virtual Oath Readiness Certificate | The Virtual Oath Readiness Certificate is essential for Form N-400 submission, confirming the applicant's eligibility to complete the naturalization oath ceremony remotely. Applicants must also provide supporting documents such as a permanent resident card, Form I-94, and identification to validate their identity and residency status. |
| 9 | QR-Encoded Passport Biographical Page | The QR-encoded passport biographical page is a crucial document for naturalization (Form N-400) submission as it contains encrypted personal data that verifies identity and citizenship status. Including this document ensures faster processing and reduces errors by allowing USCIS to efficiently scan and authenticate applicant information. |
| 10 | Automated Criminal Record Clearance Letter | The Automated Criminal Record Clearance Letter is a critical document required for the Form N-400 naturalization application, verifying the absence of a criminal history. This letter must be obtained from authorized law enforcement agencies and included to expedite background checks during the USCIS review process. |
Overview of Form N-400 Naturalization Process
The naturalization process requires submitting Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization, which initiates your request to become a U.S. citizen. Proper documentation is essential to ensure your application is complete and processed efficiently.
- Proof of Permanent Residency - Submit a copy of your green card as evidence of your lawful permanent resident status.
- Identification Documents - Provide government-issued ID such as a passport or driver's license to verify your identity.
- Supporting Evidence - Include documents like marriage certificates, tax returns, or military records that support eligibility criteria.
Essential Eligibility Requirements for Applicants
To submit Form N-400 for naturalization, essential eligibility documents include a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), evidence of continuous residence, and proof of physical presence in the United States. You must also provide documentation demonstrating good moral character, such as tax records and any court dispositions. Additional required materials include two passport-style photos, a copy of the state-issued identification card, and the appropriate filing fee.
Primary Identification Documents Needed
Submitting Form N-400 for naturalization requires specific primary identification documents to verify your identity and eligibility. These documents establish your legal status and support the information provided in your application.
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) - This card serves as proof of your lawful permanent resident status in the United States.
- Passport or Travel Document - A valid passport or travel document provides identity verification and supports evidence of lawful entry.
- State-Issued Identification - A driver's license or state ID card confirms your current address and identity within the U.S.
Proof of Lawful Permanent Residency (Green Card)
Proof of lawful permanent residency is a critical document required for submitting Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization. Applicants must provide a copy of their Permanent Resident Card, commonly known as a Green Card, as evidence of their legal status in the United States.
The Green Card must be valid and unexpired at the time of submission. This document verifies that the applicant has maintained lawful permanent residency, which is essential for eligibility for naturalization under U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) guidelines.
Documentation of Marital Status and History
| Document Type | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Marriage Certificate | Official government-issued certificate proving current marriage | Confirms legal marital status for naturalization eligibility |
| Divorce Decree | Legal document proving termination of previous marriages | Verifies previous marriages have ended legally |
| Death Certificate of Former Spouse | Official record of a spouse's death | Clarifies marital status if previously married spouse is deceased |
| Annulment Papers | Legal proof that a prior marriage was annulled | Establishes marital history for naturalization processing |
| Proof of Termination of Common-Law Marriage | Documentary evidence recognized by state law if applicable | Supports claims regarding marital status when common-law marriage applies |
Evidence of Continuous Residence and Physical Presence
What documents are required to prove continuous residence for Form N-400 submission? Evidence such as lease agreements, utility bills, and tax returns can demonstrate continuous residence. These documents must cover the required period specified by USCIS to establish eligibility.
Which documents serve as proof of physical presence when applying for naturalization? Applicants should provide records like employment pays stubs, school transcripts, or medical records showing physical presence in the United States. These documents verify the applicant's physical presence during the statutory period before filing Form N-400.
Supporting Documents for Military Applicants
Military applicants submitting Form N-400 for naturalization must provide specific supporting documents to verify their service. These documents help demonstrate eligibility under military provisions and expedite the naturalization process.
Required supporting documents include Form NGB Form 22 or other official military discharge papers, such as DD Form 214, proving honorable service. Applicants must also submit proof of current military service if actively serving, like a recent military ID or enlistment contract. Additionally, any Certificates of Service or deployment orders should be included to confirm active duty periods.
Additional Evidence for Special Categories
When submitting Form N-400 for naturalization, applicants in special categories must provide additional evidence tailored to their specific situation. This ensures USCIS can accurately assess eligibility beyond the standard documentation.
For military applicants, a copy of their Form DD-214 or proof of current military service is required. Spouses of U.S. citizens in the military must include a marriage certificate and proof of the citizen's active duty status or deployment orders.
Translation and Certified Document Guidelines
Submitting Form N-400 for naturalization requires specific documentation guidelines, especially regarding translations and certifications. Properly translated and certified documents ensure USCIS processes applications without delays or rejections.
- Certified Translations Are Mandatory - All documents not in English must be accompanied by a full English translation certified as complete and accurate by the translator.
- Translator Certification Statement - The translator must provide a statement affirming their competency and attesting to the translation's accuracy.
- Original Documents Must Be Submitted - Submit original or certified copies of supporting documents along with their translations for verification purposes.
Adhering to translation and certification requirements is critical to avoid application processing issues with Form N-400.
What Documents Are Required for Naturalization (Form N-400) Submission? Infographic
