Overview
Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) is the official application to become a U.S. citizen. The form has 18 parts and approximately 20 pages.
DO NOT lie or hide information. USCIS can verify and permanently deny your application.
Keep copies of all submitted documents. You will need to bring originals to your interview.
For complex issues (criminal history, tax debts, complicated marriages), consult an immigration attorney.
Form Sections
Eligibility
Select your basis for eligibility
- Most select: "I have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years"
- If married to U.S. citizen ≥3 years, select that option
- Military members have separate options
Information About You
Basic personal information
- Name must EXACTLY match your green card
- Social Security Number - required if you have one
- A-Number is the 9-digit number on your green card
- Date of Birth format: MM/DD/YYYY
Accommodation
If you need special accommodations due to disability
- Request interpreter (if needed)
- Request someone to sign on your behalf (if unable to write)
- Most people leave this section blank
Contact Information
Address, phone number, email
- Mailing address must be where you ACTUALLY receive mail
- Provide mobile phone to receive USCIS text notifications
- Email helps receive notifications faster
Information About Your Parents
Information about biological parents
- If parent is a U.S. citizen, you may already be a citizen!
- Enter information as shown on birth certificate
- If unknown, write "Unknown"
Biographic Information
Height, weight, eye color, hair color
- Height: Enter in feet and inches
- Example: 5'6" = 5 feet 6 inches
- Hair and eye color: choose from provided list
Residence & Employment History
Where you lived and worked in the past 5 years
- List ALL addresses in past 5 years, even short stays
- No "gaps" in timeline allowed
- Employment includes unemployment, homemaker
Time Outside the U.S.
All trips outside the United States
- List ALL trips, even short ones
- Trips >6 months continuous may affect application
- Trips >1 year may break residency requirement
Marital & Children History
Marriage history and children information
- List ALL marriages (including divorces)
- List ALL children (including those abroad)
- Stepchildren and adopted children must be listed
Additional Information
Important Yes/No questions
- ANSWER HONESTLY on all questions
- Includes: criminal history, taxes, organization memberships
- Lying can result in permanent denial
- If unsure, consult an immigration attorney
Required Documents
- Original Green Card
- 2 passport photos (2x2 inches)
- IRS tax returns for past 5 years
- Marriage/divorce certificates (if applicable)
- Children's birth certificates
- Name change documents (if applicable)
- Selective Service registration (males 18-26)