If you’re already a citizen of the United States and need proof of your status, you can request a U.S. citizenship certificate. The form used to apply for a U.S. citizenship certificate is Form N-600, Application for Certificate of Citizenship.
In order to properly file Form N-600, you can follow these six steps.
Step 1: Figure Out if You Are Eligible
Many people born outside the U.S. find the prospect of applying for citizenship through the naturalization process to be quite daunting. Fortunately for some, it is possible to avoid this process and instead deal with the much easier task of requesting a U.S. citizenship certificate.
Check to see if you’re eligible to file Form N-600 by taking a quick citizenship certificate qualification quiz. If you’re unsure how to prove U.S. citizenship, it’s important to understand that eligibility hinges on your parent’s citizenship status and your personal documentation. If you are eligible, there are two ways that you can qualify for a U.S. citizenship certificate.
Method 1
The first way to qualify is to prove that you were born outside of the United States to a U.S. citizen parent. Anyone born to a U.S. citizen parent is automatically entitled to the right to citizenship. If you have a green card in the U.S., you can submit an application for a citizenship certificate.
Method 2
The second way to qualify is to show that you were born outside of the U.S. to a parent who acquired citizenship through the naturalization process before your 18th birthday. If you are a green card holder, once your parent attains citizenship through the naturalization process, you will automatically receive citizenship status as well.
Step 2: Prepare Form N-600
Fill out Form N-600 completely and accurately. The process of completing this form is where FileRight can help. FileRight provides self-help software that can help you prepare your Form N-600.
Step 3: Prepare Supporting Documents
Provide supporting documents that show you are eligible to apply. Nearly all immigration documents require copies of supporting documentation and Form N-600 is no exception.
The purpose of supporting documentation is to provide the government with a reason to grant you the benefits for which you apply.
In this case, you’ll be providing documents that show that you have a parent who is a U.S. citizen. This can be done by including copies of the following documents in your application package. Keep in mind that you will have to tailor your supporting documents for your particular case.
- A birth certificate can show that you are the child of a U.S. citizen
- Your parent’s birth certificate or citizenship certificate can show that they are a U.S. citizen
- A marriage certificate can show the relationship between your parents and provide further proof of your right to citizenship
FileRight will also provide custom filing instructions which can be really helpful.
Step 4: Attach the Filing Fee
Attach two passport-style photos, along with the filing fee, which is currently $600 for most applicants.
Remember: Some fee exceptions may be available.
Step 5: Send Your Completed Application
Mail the completed application package to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The address to send your application may change. Visit the official site for more instructions, or simply use FileRight. We also provide instructions on where to file, how to file, and more.
Step 6: Attend Interview
Attend an interview at a USCIS office if required. While the N-565 processing time varies case by case, once done, USCIS typically mails the citizenship certificate.
