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Citizenship Application Form N-400 - 5 FAQs

Author: Kazmi Sakata
by Kazmi Sakata
Posted: Oct 05, 2017

Form N-400 is used to apply for naturalization as a US citizen. Here are some frequently asked questions that citizenship applicants have about the form, as well as their associated answers:

1. When Can I File Form N-400?

This depends on the basis under which you're applying for citizenship. If you're applying on the basis of being a lawful permanent resident for 5 years, you may apply 90 days before your 5-year anniversary date. If you're applying as a permanent resident married to a US citizen for 3 years, you may apply 90 days before the anniversary of the 3-year period.

2. Are There Any Exemptions to the Required Fees?

In general, applicants who submit Form N-400 will also need to pay a $640 application fee and $85 biometrics fee, for a total of $725. Applicants who are 75 years of age or older are exempted from the biometrics fee, while those applying on the basis of military service are exempted from paying the application fee.

If paying the required fees would cause you financial hardship, you may be eligible for a waiver. Applicants falling under the following categories may apply for a fee waiver:

  • Recipients of means-tested government benefits such as TANF, SNAP or Medicaid.
  • Persons whose household income falls under 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
  • Individuals experiencing some type of exceptional financial hardship, such as unexpected medical expenses.

Those who qualify must file form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver. The form, as well as further information on qualifying for a waiver, is available on the USCIS website.

3. Will I Receive US Citizenship as Soon as My Form Is Accepted?

No, as there are a few other steps in the process. Applicants will have to attend a biometrics appointment during which their photograph, fingerprints and signature will be taken, as well as attend a naturalization interview. If your application has been approved after all verifications are done, the final step towards receiving US citizenship is taking the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony.

USCIS will send you documentation by mail informing you of the details regarding the rest of the process once processing of your Form N-400 begins.

4. How Long Does the Entire Process Take?

Every case is unique; however most applicants can expect to become US citizens 5 to 8 months after sending in their Form N-400.

5. I Have Moved After Submitting My Form. How Do I Update My Address?

In addition to submitting Form AR-10, Alien's Change of Address, you must also get in touch with USCIS to ensure that the address on your pending application is modified. This is very important, as you will receive documents by mail related to the processing of your application after it's submitted.

If you have a lot of confusion with your case, you can also reach out to San Diego Immigration Attorneys for additional advice.

About the Author

Author bio: Kazmi and Sakta are skilled and experienced San Diego immigration lawyer. They have experience difficult situation and handle many immigiration cases with guaranteed success.

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Author: Kazmi Sakata

Kazmi Sakata

Member since: Dec 12, 2016
Published articles: 2