Form N-570, issued by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), is a replacement document for a Certificate of Naturalization. This certificate is vital for individuals who have become US citizens through naturalization, serving as definitive proof of their citizenship.
What is Form N-570?
Form N-570 is a replacement Certificate of Naturalization provided to individuals who need a new copy due to loss, damage, or a legal change in personal information, such as a name change. It also addresses cases of clerical errors made by USCIS on the original certificate.
The original Certificate of Naturalization, typically Form N-550, is granted during the naturalization oath ceremony and serves as a primary proof of citizenship. Losing or damaging this document can complicate various processes, such as applying for a US passport, obtaining federal benefits, or verifying employment eligibility.
When should you use Form N-570?
You should file Form N-570 under the following circumstances:
- The original certificate is lost, stolen, or significantly damaged.
- Legal changes, such as a name or gender change, necessitate an update.
- USCIS errors resulted in incorrect information on the document.
If you suspect theft or misplacement, it is recommended to report the loss to your local authorities and obtain a police report, which can be included in your application.
How to apply for a replacement certificate
The application process involves filing Form N-565, the official application for replacement naturalization or citizenship documents. Here’s how to proceed:
- Gather documentation: Include copies of the damaged certificate (if available), legal documents supporting changes (e.g., court orders for name changes), and a police report for stolen documents.
- Complete Form N-565: Fill out the form accurately. Any mistakes may delay or even result in the denial of your application.
- Attach photographs: Provide two passport-style photos.
- Submit payment: Pay the required fee, which as of December 2024 is $555. Fee waivers are available under certain conditions.
- File the application: Submit the form online via your USCIS account or mail it to the designated USCIS service center.
How long does it take to receive Form N-570?
Processing times for replacement certificates typically range between 5 and 10 months, depending on the caseload at USCIS. Expedited processing may be available in emergency cases, such as for urgent international travel.
Important tips for safeguarding your certificate
To avoid the inconvenience of replacing a Certificate of Naturalization, it’s essential to:
- Store it in a safe location, such as a fireproof and waterproof container.
- Make photocopies for personal records (for lawful uses, such as family immigration petitions).
- Obtain a US passport, which serves as an alternative proof of citizenship and is more practical for daily use.
Difference between Form N-570 and other documents
It’s important to distinguish between a Certificate of Naturalization (N-550/N-570) and a Certificate of Citizenship. The latter is issued to individuals who derived citizenship automatically, such as through a US citizen parent, and cannot be replaced using Form N-570.
