Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization, is your official application to become a U.S. citizen. Errors or inconsistencies can delay your case or create problems at your interview. This guide walks through every section.
Check Your Eligibility First
Before filling out the N-400, confirm you are at least 18 years old, have been a lawful permanent resident for at least 5 years (3 years if married to and living with a U.S. citizen), have maintained continuous residence in the United States during that period, have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months of the past 5 years, demonstrate good moral character, and have basic English ability and civics knowledge.
Online vs. Paper Filing
File online at uscis.gov or mail a paper form. Online filing is generally faster, lets you track your case in real time, and reduces the risk of missing pages. Both methods cost $725 as of 2024 β $640 filing fee plus $85 biometrics.
Part 1: Your Name
Enter your legal name exactly as it appears on your Permanent Resident Card. If you want to change your name through naturalization, request that on the form β the new name will appear on your naturalization certificate and is legally final.
Part 8: Trips Outside the United States
List ALL trips lasting 24 hours or more since becoming a permanent resident. USCIS cross-checks this against passport records. Omitting trips β even short ones β can be treated as misrepresentation, which is a serious offense. Trips of 6 months or longer can potentially disrupt your continuous residence; consult an immigration attorney if this applies to you.
Part 11: Moral Character Questions
Answer every question honestly. USCIS runs comprehensive background checks and will discover discrepancies. Truthful disclosure of a past issue is almost always treated far less seriously than concealment of that same issue.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Leaving questions blank β write N/A if something does not apply
- Using nicknames instead of your full legal name
- Forgetting to sign and date β unsigned forms are automatically rejected
- Not listing all trips outside the U.S.
- Sending the wrong fee or forgetting the check
- Not including all required supporting documents