How to Fill Out a US Citizenship Form
To become a U.S. citizen, you must be at least 18 years old, have lawful permanent residence in the United States and must live in the country for five continuous years before applying. Applicants must also be able to speak, write and read English, have basic knowledge about the U.S. government and history, and have a good moral character. After all of these requirements are fulfilled, foreign nationals are eligible to file an application form for U.S. citizenship.
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Instructions
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Print the form N-400, Application for Naturalization from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, USCIS, website. Read the questions on the application form to be sure you have fulfilled all the requirements.
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Complete the form either by hand or by typing in the fillable PDF form. The submitted citizenship application form must be typed or handwritten in black ink.
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Answer all answers completely and honestly. If you need more room to answer a question, attach an extra sheet of paper to the back of the application, write the number of the question you are answering, and continue with your answer there. Type or write any additional information in black ink.
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Write your USCIS number on the top, right-hand corner of each page of your application. This is your visa number that is printed on the front of your permanent resident card, commonly known as green card.
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Provide requested information, including your name, your eligibility, information about your family members and their legal status, your criminal record, your history of employment and time you spent outside the United States. Do not sign parts 13 and 14 of the application, "Signature at Interview" and "Oath of Allegiance." You are asked to sign these two sections during your interview.
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Tips & Warnings
You can apply for naturalization up to 90 days before you meet the continuous residencey requirements. (See resource 2)
If you are unsure or confused about the process of applying for citizenship, hire a lawyer who has experience in the field.
Call the USCIS directly or refer to their website for up to date and detailed information about forms and eligibility requirements. The USCIS toll-free forms line is 1-800-870-3676 and the USCIS National Customer Service Center number is 1-800-767-1833.
There are several other documents that must be handed in along with the N-400 Application for Naturalization. Read all instructions carefully so as to not hand in an incomplete application and risk having it returned to you or denied.
