N-400 · Citizenship & Status
N-400 – Application for Naturalization
Take the final step toward becoming a U.S. citizen after meeting residency, language, and civic knowledge requirements.
Our Fee
$99
USCIS Fee
$760
Est. Completion
20–30 min
Processing Time
8–24 months
⚠️ ImmigrationSmile.com is not a law firm. We prepare forms only. USCIS fees are paid separately.
About Form N-400
Form N-400 is the Application for Naturalization — the process by which a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) applies to become a U.S. citizen. Naturalization grants you the right to vote, obtain a U.S. passport, and access other benefits of citizenship. The process includes filing the N-400, biometrics, an interview, an English and civics test, and an Oath of Allegiance ceremony.
Eligibility Requirements
✓ 5-year rule: LPR for at least 5 years with continuous residence
✓ 3-year rule: LPR for at least 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen for those 3 years
✓ Physical presence: At least 30 months of the 5-year period (or 18 months of 3 years)
✓ No single trip abroad longer than 6 months during the qualifying period
✓ Ability to read, write, and speak basic English (exceptions apply)
✓ Knowledge of U.S. history and government (civics test)
✓ Good moral character during the statutory period
Documents Required
- ✓Current Permanent Resident Card (green card, front and back)
- ✓Proof of continuous residence — utility bills, lease agreements, tax returns covering the statutory period
- ✓Proof of physical presence — travel records, passport stamps, entry/exit records
- ✓Marriage certificate (if applying under the 3-year rule)
- ✓Divorce decrees if applicable
- ✓Records of any arrests, citations, or criminal charges (including those expunged)
- ✓Tax transcripts for all years during the statutory period
- ✓Selective Service registration documentation (if applicable — males 18–26)
The Naturalization Process
- 1
Confirm eligibility: verify continuous residence, physical presence, and meet the good moral character standard
- 2
Complete the N-400 questionnaire using our software
- 3
Gather and organize all supporting documents
- 4
Mail N-400 packet with the $760 filing fee (check or money order payable to USCIS)
- 5
Attend biometrics appointment at an Application Support Center
- 6
Attend N-400 interview at your local USCIS field office
- 7
Pass the English reading, writing, and speaking test
- 8
Pass the civics test (10 questions from 100; must answer 6 correctly)
- 9
Receive interview decision (approval, recommendation for approval, continuance, or denial)
- 10
Attend Oath of Allegiance ceremony and receive your Certificate of Naturalization
FAQs – N-400
Q: Can I file early?
A: You may file up to 90 days before you meet the 5-year (or 3-year) residence requirement. This allows processing time so your interview may happen right around your eligibility date.
Q: What if I failed a trip abroad?
A: Trips of 6+ months may disrupt continuous residence. Trips of 1+ year generally break it entirely. USCIS may consider whether you maintained a home, job, and filed taxes in the U.S. during that trip.
Q: Are there English test exemptions?
A: Yes. You may be exempt if you are age 50+ with 20 years as an LPR (50/20 exception), age 55+ with 15 years as an LPR (55/15 exception), or have a qualifying disability (file Form N-648).
Q: Can a criminal record disqualify me?
A: Certain criminal convictions are bars to naturalization or indicators of lack of good moral character. Consult an immigration attorney if you have any criminal history before filing.
Ready to Start?
Complete the continuous questionnaire to generate your print-ready packet.