The Citizenship Application - The First Step in the Naturalization

The Citizenship Application is the first step in the process of becoming a U.S. citizen. It contains a lot of questions that you must answer truthfully. If you lie or misrepresent information, you could lose your ability to become a citizen and may even be deported. You also must list any past criminal charges that you have ever been arrested for or convicted of. This information will be used by USCIS for a background check.

Identifying Documents

For a citizenship application, applicants need two pieces of valid identification documents. One of these documents must show a photograph of the applicant.

Applicants must provide an identification document with their date of birth. They may use a birth certificate, a social security card or a driver’s license.

They may also present an affidavit of identity. This document must be signed under penalty of perjury by the applicant.

Children ages 16 and 17 who do not have a school ID with their photograph or a driver’s license can submit an affidavit of identity to establish their age and U.S. citizenship status.

The affidavit must include the name and date of birth of the child. If the child was adopted, it must also indicate the adopting parent’s name and date of birth. If the child was born abroad, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) or Form FS-240 must be provided. This document must be obtained by the embassy or consulate of the country in which the child was born.

Supporting Documents

Besides Form N-400, citizenship applicants also need to provide certain supporting documents. These documents will help USCIS decide whether you have good moral character and meet the requirements to become a citizen.

The list of required documents for a naturalization application may vary depending on your situation. For instance, green card holders based on marriage must submit additional documentation such as a marriage certificate and the spouse’s U.S. passport.

Answering the questions on the form carefully is important to avoid being denied. Some questions can be difficult to understand, such as Question 9.

If you are unsure how to answer this question or other questions on Form N-400, it is best to speak with a lawyer.

In addition, it is a bad idea to lie about yourself on the citizenship application. This can lead to serious consequences, including revocation of your citizenship.

Fees

The fee for a citizenship application can be a barrier for some applicants. However, there are several ways to cover the cost.

Many government-funded organizations actively help citizens pay their fees. You can also ask friends and family to sponsor you.

Another option is to set up a payment plan with USCIS. If approved, you can make monthly payments toward your application fee.

A citizenship application requires a filing fee and biometrics service fee, both of which are non-refundable. You can pay for these fees online, by mail, or in person at a USCIS office.

You must submit the fee payment with Form N-400 when you file your naturalization application. You can use a credit card, check, or money order to pay.

Interview

The citizenship interview is a vital step in your naturalization process. It is an opportunity for you to explain your application and answer questions from a USCIS officer.

The officer will ask you questions about your background, where you live, your character and criminal record, whether you are a good citizen, and your willingness to take an oath of allegiance to the United States.

You should be honest at the interview. If you hide information or lie during the interview, it can have a major impact on your application and may even lead to a denial.

In addition, it is a good idea to bring all of your old files with you. This includes court files and police records, so that you can provide them if asked.

After the interview, USCIS will give you a notice that states your interview results and whether or not you are approved for citizenship. If you are, you will be notified about a naturalization ceremony and you will receive a certificate of citizenship. If you are denied, you will be given a written letter explaining why the officer rejected your citizenship application.