How to Apply for Citizenship in Minnesota

Minnesota residents can apply for citizenship based on naturalization or their parents' citizen status. Applying through naturalization requires that the applicant be at least 18 or older and meet requirements including being able to read, write and speak English and have a continuous residence and physical presence in the United States. Children using their parents to apply for citizenship must have lived in the United States for an extended period of time, and at least one parent has to be a U.S. citizen. All Minnesota applicants must submit applications to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office in Phoenix, Arizona.

Things You'll Need

• Two identical passport-type photos
• Proof of birth
• Proof of identity

Instructions

Citizenship Through Naturalization

1. Complete and submit form N-400 "Application for Naturalization" along with your payment to the USCIS Phoenix Lockbox; PO Box 21251; Phoenix, AZ 85036. The application must be submitted with two identical passport-type photos taken within 30 days prior to the completion of the application, a copy of your permanent resident card, and certified copies of any arrest records, court disposition and other related documents. The fee for the naturalization application is $595 as of 2010. You will receive an appointment letter from the USCIS office after your application has been received and reviewed.

2. Visit the fingerprinting location listed on your appointment letter and have your fingerprints taken. You will be responsible for payment of the service, and the cost will vary based on the location. After your fingerprints have been received, you will receive an interview letter from the USCIS.

3. Visit your local USCIS office for your interview appointment. Your appointment letter will arrive in the mail and list the appointment date, time and location. You must bring your state-issued identification, Permanent Resident Card and any other requested documents.

4. Complete an English and civics test provided during your interview appointment.

5. Complete the "Oath of Allegiance" after receiving your ceremony date. After completing the required questionnaire and documentation, you will receive a "Certificate of Naturalization."

Citizenship Based on Parents

1. Complete and submit form N-600 "Application for Certificate of Citizenship" along with your payment to the USCIS; Saint Paul Field Office; 2901 Metro Drive, Suite 1000; Bloomington, MN 55425. The cost to submit this form is $600 for birth children and $550 for adopted children as of 2010. The application must include the child's birth record, the parent's proof of citizenship, marriage certificate (if applicable), and passport-type photos of the child.

2. Visit the USCIS field office for your interview if necessary. You may not receive an interview letter.

3. Complete the "Oath of Allegiance" and receive your Certificate of Naturalization. If the child cannot complete the oath, then the parents can complete it in the child's place.

Tips & Warnings

• Birth and adopted children of natural or citizens of the United States automatically become citizens based on their parents. The form N-600 is only necessary if the parent or parents wish to obtain a certificate of citizenship.

References

• Department of Homeland Security: Instructions for application N-400, application for naturalization
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services: N-400, Application for naturalization.
• I am a permanent resident: How do I apply for US citizenship
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services: What should I expect from the naturalization process
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services: Check Filing Fees

Resources

• Department of Homeland Security: N-400 Application for Naturalization
• Department of Homeland Security: N-600, Application for Certificate of Citizenship