The (Form N-550) is an essential document issued by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It serves as official proof of US citizenship for individuals who have undergone the naturalization process.
What is the certificate of naturalization?
The Certificate of Naturalization is granted to individuals who have successfully completed the US naturalization process. It confirms that the recipient is a US citizen, detailing personal information such as their name, date of naturalization, and unique certificate number. It differs from the Certificate of Citizenship, which is issued to individuals who acquire citizenship through birth or adoption by US citizen parents while abroad.
Who is eligible for a certificate of naturalization?
Eligibility hinges on meeting several criteria, including:
- Lawful permanent residency: Applicants must hold green cards for a minimum of five years, or three years if married to a US citizen.
- Physical presence: Applicants must have spent at least 30 months in the US over the last five years.
- Good moral character: A clean legal record is essential.
- Civics and English knowledge: Passing the naturalization interview and associated tests on English language skills and US history and government is mandatory.
- Attachment to constitutional principles: Applicants must demonstrate support for the US Constitution.
Applicants begin the process by filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, and attending biometric and interview appointments with USCIS. Successful applicants are invited to a naturalization ceremony, where they take the Oath of Allegiance and receive their certificate.
How to fill out Form N-565 for replacement certificates
If your Certificate of Naturalization is lost, damaged, or contains incorrect information, you can request a replacement by filing Form N-565. Here’s what you need to know:
- Filing requirements: Provide your original certificate (if available), proof of changes (e.g., legal name change), and supporting documents like identification.
- Fees: The application fee is $555, subject to changes, and must be paid to USCIS.
- Submission: File the form online via your USCIS account or by mail to the specified USCIS lockbox.
- Processing times: Replacements typically take 8–14 months depending on the complexity of the case and USCIS workload.
Using the certificate of naturalization
The certificate is necessary for key activities such as:
- Applying for a US passport: Submit the original certificate with your passport application.
- Proving citizenship for employment or benefits: Provide a photocopy or the original certificate.
- Legal matters abroad: For some international processes, authenticated copies (certified true copies) are required.
To obtain an authenticated copy, schedule an appointment with your local USCIS office. Bring your original certificate, a photocopy, and identification. Note that authentication services are only available for non-US government purposes.
Contents of the certificate of naturalization
The Certificate of Naturalization contains specific information that identifies the naturalized citizen and confirms their US citizenship. The key components include:
- USCIS Registration Number (A-number), also known as the alien registration number
- Complete Individual’s Name
- Marital Status
- Place of Residence (current address)
- Country of Former Nationality
- A recent Photograph (USCIS will use the one taken during the biometric appointment)
- Signature
- Other Descriptors (Sex, date of birth, and height)
- Certificate Number (A unique number assigned to the certificate).
- USCIS Director’s Statement (confirming that the individual has met all eligibility requirements for naturalization)
- Date of Issuance
- DHS Seal and Director’s Signature
Issuance of the certificate of naturalization
The following steps outline the issuance process:
- Approval of Application: Once the USCIS officer approves the N-400 application, the applicant is scheduled for an oath ceremony to become a US citizen.
- Oath of Allegiance: The applicant must take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States during a naturalization ceremony.
- Surrender of Permanent Resident Card: The applicant must surrender their Green Card or Alien Registration Card during the oath ceremony. If the card is lost or destroyed, the requirement may be waived.
- Issuance of Certificate: After taking the oath, the applicant receives the Certificate of Naturalization.
In cases where the oath requirement is waived due to medical disabilities, USCIS issues the certificate in person in court or by certified mail to the applicant or their legal representative.
Processing time for N-565 Application is several months. Apply as soon as possible if the certificate is lost, stolen, or damaged.
How long does it take to get the certificate?
For first-time certificates following naturalization, the process takes around 12–18 months from filing Form N-400 to receiving the certificate at the naturalization ceremony. Replacements and updates through Form N-565 require additional time, often several months.
Important considerations
- Gender updates: As of March 2023, USCIS no longer requires extensive evidence for gender updates on certificates, streamlining the process for applicants seeking gender recognition changes.
- Family requests: For deceased relatives, family members can request certified copies by providing proof of relationship and the relative’s death certificate.
