Immigration Form Guide

Form N-400: Application for Naturalization

Form N-400 is the final step in your immigration journey - applying to become a United States citizen through naturalization.

Filing fee: $640 + $85
Processing: 8-14 months
Start Your Citizenship Application

Paths to Citizenship

There are different eligibility paths depending on your situation

5-Year Green Card Holder

  • Green card for 5+ years
  • 30 months physical presence
  • 3 months state residency
  • Good moral character

3-Year (Married to U.S. Citizen)

  • Green card for 3+ years
  • Married to same U.S. citizen for 3 years
  • 18 months physical presence
  • Living with spouse

Military Service

  • One year of military service
  • Still serving or honorably discharged
  • Good moral character
  • Different physical presence rules apply

Required Documents

Gather these documents before filing your N-400 application.

Form N-400

Completed and signed application

Green Card Copy

Front and back of your permanent resident card

Passport Photos

Two identical passport-style photos

Filing Fee

$640 + $85 biometrics (fee waivers available)

Travel Records

List of all trips outside the U.S. since becoming a resident

Tax Returns

Copies of tax returns for the last 5 years (or 3 if married to USC)

Interview Tips

  • 1
    Arrive early (30 minutes before appointment)
  • 2
    Bring original documents (green card, passport, etc.)
  • 3
    Answer questions truthfully and directly
  • 4
    Ask for clarification if you don't understand
  • 5
    Dress professionally and respectfully
  • 6
    Bring your receipt notice and interview appointment letter

Good Moral Character

Certain criminal convictions, immigration violations, or failure to pay taxes can affect your eligibility. Be honest on your application.

Citizenship Tests

English & Civics Tests

During your interview, you'll be tested on English and U.S. civics

English Test

Reading

Read 1 of 3 sentences correctly

Writing

Write 1 of 3 sentences correctly

Speaking

Evaluated during interview

Civics Test

100

possible questions

10

asked at interview

6

correct to pass

Applicants 65+ with 20+ years as permanent residents may take a simplified version with only 20 questions.

Sample Civics Questions

What is the supreme law of the land?

Answer: The Constitution

What does the Constitution do?

Answer: Sets up the government, defines the government, protects basic rights of Americans

How many amendments does the Constitution have?

Answer: 27

What are two rights in the Declaration of Independence?

Answer: Life, liberty, pursuit of happiness

View all 100 civics questions →

Ready to Become a U.S. Citizen?

SureCitizen helps you prepare your N-400 application, study for the civics test, and get ready for your interview.

Start Your N-400Citizenship Guide