Form N-400

How to obtain a US citizenship

In this article you will find answers to the Naturalization process which gives to an applicant access to the variety of rights.

Once you have approved your eligibility to obtain a citizenship, you should complete and submit Form N-400. To file the form N-400, go to USCIS website. After the submission of the document USCIS will appoint you an interview. It is critically necessary to arrive to the interview on time. It is recommended to be present at the place 30 minutes before the set time. Keep all the documents and an appointment notices with you.

According to the results of N-400 completion and all the next steps, you will receive a response with a confirmation or rejection. You may get a granted USCIS approval or continued. A continued one means that you have a chance to provide additional documentation and information if needed. Also you may continue an application if incorrect documents were provided or you failed the English or history test.

If you get a positive response after finishing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, then read carefully the following advice.

  1. Wait for an email with a notice to take the Oath of Allegiance. The Oath of Allegiance is an official ceremony that must be taken by all foreigners who wish to obtain a United States citizenship. Usually it takes place the same day as interview. If not available, you will receive a note with another set date and time of the ceremony.
  2. To take the Oath of Allegiance you need to complete several steps:
  • fill out Form N-445, Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony. Answer all the provided questions.

  • report for the ceremony. Then check in with USCIS. Your responses form the N-445 Form will be checked by a USCIS officer.

  • hand over your Green Card.

  • take the Oath of Allegiance.

After you receive the Certificate of Naturalization, it is highly recommended to review it to avoid misunderstandings and notify USCIS of any errors if found.

After all these processes, an individual can already apply for U.S. passports. From this moment a citizen has rights to vote, ability to travel freely across US borders, obtain a citizenship for children, become officially employed, become an elected etc. In general, a person obtains the same rights and benefits that have natural born citizens.