Submitting the correct supporting documents with your Form N-400 is critical for the success of your U.S. citizenship application. USCIS uses these documents to verify your eligibility for naturalization, so it's important to be thorough and organized.
Here’s a guide to help you gather all the necessary documents for your naturalization application.
Step 1: General Required Documents for All Applicants
1. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card):
- Submit a copy of the front and back of your Green Card (Form I-551).
- If you’ve lost or damaged your Green Card, you may need to apply for a replacement using Form I-90 before filing Form N-400.
2. State-Issued ID:
- A copy of your driver’s license, state ID card, or other government-issued photo identification.
- This is required to prove residency in the state where you’re applying.
3. Travel Records:
- Provide a list of all trips outside the U.S. over the past 5 years (or 3 years if applying based on marriage to a U.S. citizen).
- Include:
- Dates you left and returned to the U.S.
- Destinations and purpose of each trip.
- Keep airline tickets, itineraries, or passport stamps as proof of travel.
4. Marriage Certificate (if applicable):
- If you’re married, provide a copy of your marriage certificate.
5. Divorce or Death Certificates (if applicable):
- If you or your current spouse were previously married, include copies of:
- Divorce decrees.
- Annulment documents.
- Death certificates for any deceased former spouse.
6. Proof of Name Change (if applicable):
- If you’ve legally changed your name, include documentation such as:
- Court order.
- Marriage certificate.
Step 2: Additional Documents Based on Eligibility Category
Depending on how you qualify for naturalization, you may need extra documents.
1. If Applying Based on Marriage to a U.S. Citizen:
- Proof that your spouse is a U.S. citizen, such as:
- Birth certificate (if spouse was born in the U.S.).
- Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship.
- U.S. passport (copy of photo and signature pages).
- Proof of your marital relationship for the past 3 years:
- Joint lease or mortgage.
- Joint bank statements.
- Utility bills with both names.
- Tax returns showing “married filing jointly.”
2. If You’ve Had Arrests or Criminal Convictions:
- If you’ve ever been arrested or convicted, include:
- Police reports.
- Court records.
- Evidence the case was dismissed or charges were dropped.
- Probation records or documentation showing completion of sentencing.
Pro Tip: Being honest about your criminal history is critical. Minor offenses may not affect your application, but failure to disclose them could result in denial.
3. If You Have Dependent Children:
- For any dependent children (including those living outside the U.S.), provide:
- Birth certificates or adoption decrees.
- Proof of child support payments (if required by court order).
4. If You Are a Male and Lived in the U.S. Between Ages 18–26:
- Proof of Selective Service registration (required for males born between 1940–2002).
- Register or get a status letter: Selective Service System.
- If you didn’t register, include a written explanation and proof of why you didn’t (e.g., you weren’t in the U.S. during that time).
5. If You Are Claiming a Disability Waiver:
- Submit Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions.
- Completed by a licensed medical professional.
6. If You Served in the U.S. Military:
- Submit proof of military service, such as:
- Form DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty).
- Military service records.
- Evidence of honorable discharge (if applicable).
Step 3: Documents to Support Continuous Residence and Physical Presence
You need to prove that you’ve lived in the U.S. continuously and meet the physical presence requirement.
Examples of Supporting Documents:
- Lease or Mortgage Statements:
- Show proof of residence in the U.S. over the past 5 years (or 3 years if applying through marriage).
- Utility Bills:
- Include electric, water, or phone bills with your name and address.
- Tax Returns:
- Submit copies of federal and state tax returns for the past 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
- Employment Records:
- Pay stubs, W-2 forms, or employer letters confirming your work history.
Step 4: Translate Foreign Documents
Any documents not in English must be translated.
Translation Requirements:
- Provide a certified English translation for all foreign-language documents.
- The translator must include a signed certification stating:
- They are fluent in both the foreign language and English.
- The translation is accurate and complete.
Example Certification Statement:
"I certify that I am fluent in both English and [language], and that the translation of [document name] is accurate to the best of my knowledge."
Step 5: Organize Your Documents
How to Organize Your Submission:
- Use copies of documents (not originals, unless requested).
- Place documents in the same order as they are referenced in Form N-400.
- Label documents with sticky notes or a cover sheet for easy reference.
Step 6: What to Bring to Your Biometrics Appointment?
After submitting Form N-400, you’ll receive a notice for a biometrics appointment. Bring:
- Appointment notice (Form I-797C).
- Green Card.
- Passport or driver’s license.
Step 7: What to Bring to the Citizenship Interview
At your naturalization interview, you’ll need to bring all original documents used to support your application.
Checklist for the Interview:
- Green Card (original).
- State ID or driver’s license.
- Passport(s):
- Current passport and any expired passports covering the last 5 years.
- Tax returns:
- Copies of your most recent federal and state tax returns.
- Marriage and divorce certificates (if applicable).
- Proof of child support payments (if applicable).
- Any additional documents requested in your interview notice.
Step 8: Track Your Application Status
After submitting your application, you can monitor your case status online:
USCIS Case Status.
Pro Tips for Success
- Start Early: Gathering documents can take time, especially if you need to request records from foreign countries or employers.
- Double-Check: Ensure all documents match the information provided on Form N-400.
- Stay Organized: Keep all documents in a folder for easy access during the application process.
- Consult an Attorney: If your case is complex (e.g., criminal history or long absences from the U.S.), consider consulting an immigration attorney for guidance.
Things to Remember
- Prepare and organize all required documents based on your eligibility category (e.g., marriage-based, employment-based).
- Submit copies of documents unless USCIS requests originals.
- Translate any foreign-language documents into certified English translations.
- Bring all originals to your biometrics appointment and citizenship interview.
.
How to Prepare for the U.S. Citizenship Civics Test??
The civics test is an important part of the U.S. citizenship process. It assesses your knowledge of U.S. history, government, and foundational principles. With the right preparation, you can feel confident and ready to pass this step of the naturalization process.
Here’s a detailed guide to help you prepare for the U.S. citizenship civics test effectively.
Step 1: Understand the Civics Test Format
1. Two Versions of the Civics Test:
- 2020 Version:
- You’ll be asked 20 questions, and you must answer at least 12 correctly to pass.
-
This version is only for applicants who filed Form N-400 between December 1, 2020, and March 1, 2021, and opted to take it.
-
2008 Version (Most Common):
- You’ll be asked 10 questions, and you must answer at least 6 correctly to pass.
Key Points:
- The questions are asked orally by a USCIS officer during your naturalization interview.
- The officer will stop asking questions as soon as you’ve answered the required number correctly.
- The questions are selected from a pool of 100 questions (2008 version).
Step 2: Review the Official List of Questions
Where to Find the Questions:
USCIS provides a list of 100 potential civics test questions and answers for the 2008 version.
What Topics Are Covered?
- American Government:
- Principles of American democracy.
- System of government (legislative, executive, judicial).
-
Rights and responsibilities of citizens.
-
American History:
- Colonial period and independence.
- 1800s history.
-
Recent American history and important events.
-
Integrated Civics:
- Geography.
- Symbols (e.g., U.S. flag, national anthem).
- Holidays (e.g., Independence Day, Veterans Day).
Step 3: Study in Small, Manageable Sections?
How to Organize Your Study Plan:
- Break the 100 questions into smaller sections and study a few topics at a time.
- For example:
- Day 1: Principles of American Democracy (Questions 1–12).
- Day 2: U.S. History (Questions 56–75).
Repetition Is Key:
- Review the same set of questions multiple times until you’re confident in your answers.
Pro Tip: Focus on the questions most relevant to your location (e.g., names of U.S. senators, representatives, and state governors).
Step 4: Use Practice Tools and Resources
USCIS Study Materials:
Apps for Studying:
- USCIS Civics Test Study Tools (Official): Free app available on iOS and Android.
- Civics Flash Cards: Apps with 100 official civics questions and answers.
Audio Resources:
- USCIS offers audio versions of the questions to help you practice pronunciation and listening comprehension.
Step 5: Memorize State-Specific Answers?
Some civics test questions require state-specific answers, so it’s important to learn details about your state:
Examples of State-Specific Questions:
- Who is one of your state’s U.S. Senators now?
-
Look up your state’s current senators: Senators by State.
-
Name your U.S. Representative.
-
Find your representative by entering your ZIP code: Find Your Representative.
-
Who is the Governor of your state now?
- Check your state’s governor here: U.S. Governors List.
Step 6: Practice English Skills (If Needed)?
Since the test is conducted in English, you’ll need to practice:
1. Listening and Speaking: Practice answering questions aloud to get comfortable with pronunciation.
2. Reading Test:
- You’ll be asked to read one sentence in English (chosen from a standard list of vocabulary).
3. Writing Test:
- You’ll write one dictated sentence in English.
Pro Tip: Study the official USCIS vocabulary lists for reading and writing. These include simple sentences like:
- Reading: “Who was the first president?”
- Writing: “George Washington was the first president.”
Step 7: Take Practice Interviews
Simulating the test and interview helps reduce anxiety and builds confidence.
How to Practice:
- Role-Play: Have a friend or family member ask you random civics questions from the 100-question list.
- Answer Out Loud: Focus on speaking clearly and confidently.
- Use Timed Sessions: Practice answering questions quickly and accurately, just like in the actual interview.
Step 8: Prepare Your Supporting Documents
On the day of your naturalization interview and test, bring all required documents, including:
1. Green Card (Permanent Resident Card).
2. State ID (e.g., driver’s license).
3. Appointment notice (Form I-797C).
4. Travel Records: If you traveled outside the U.S. during the past 5 years.
5. Marriage or Divorce Records: If applicable.
Step 9: Stay Calm During the Interview
What to Expect During the Interview:
- The USCIS officer will review your Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization).
- You’ll answer civics test questions verbally.
- You’ll take the English reading and writing tests (if required).
Pro Tip: If you don’t understand a question, it’s okay to politely ask the officer to repeat or clarify it.
Step 10: Key Civics Questions and Answers (Examples)
Sample Questions from the 2008 Version:
Principles of American Democracy:
- What is the supreme law of the land?
-
Answer: The Constitution.
-
What are the first ten amendments to the Constitution called?
- Answer: The Bill of Rights.
System of Government:
- Name one branch or part of the government.
-
Answer: Congress, President, or the Courts.
-
What does the President’s Cabinet do?
- Answer: Advises the President.
American History:
- Who was President during the Great Depression and World War II?
-
Answer: Franklin D. Roosevelt.
-
What did Martin Luther King, Jr. do?
- Answer: Fought for civil rights.
Step 11: Use a Study Schedule?
Break down your preparation into manageable steps. Here’s an example study plan:
| Day | Topic to Study | Questions to Cover |
|-------------|-----------------------------------------|-----------------------------|
| Day 1 | Principles of American Democracy | Questions 1–12 |
| Day 2 | System of Government | Questions 13–47 |
| Day 3 | U.S. History (Colonial to 1800s) | Questions 48–65 |
| Day 4 | U.S. History (1900s to Today) | Questions 66–85 |
| Day 5 | Integrated Civics (Symbols, Holidays) | Questions 86–100 |
| Day 6 | Review State-Specific Answers | State-specific questions |
| Day 7 | Practice Full Interview | Simulate the interview/test |
Things to Remember
- The civics test includes 10 oral questions (you must answer 6 correctly to pass for the 2008 version).
- Study all 100 potential questions provided by USCIS and focus on key topics.
- Use USCIS resources, flashcards, apps, and interactive practice tests to prepare effectively.
- Practice speaking English confidently to ensure success during the test and interview.