How Long Does N400 Processing Time Take?
Generally, the N400 processing time varies depending on your location. From beginning to end, the average processing time is 12 months. This number is just an estimate as it will likely change depending on several factors.
Different factors can affect your naturalization application. This article will discuss these factors and guide you through the naturalization process.
What Is Form N400?
Form N400, often known as the “Application for Naturalization,” is a government form used by qualified green card holders to apply for citizenship in the United States.
The naturalization process’s first step is filing Form N-400 with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Filing N400 Online
You can file your Form N-400 online unless you’re applying from overseas or for a fee reduction or waiver, wherein you must use the paper Form N-400 and mail it to USCIS.
Your state of residence determines the USCIS address to which you should send your materials and the delivery method you select.
The USCIS provides a list of addresses to which applicants must mail their N-400 applications.
To apply online, you should create a USCIS online account and ensure to sign your application electronically.
Document Checklist For Naturalization Process
Here’s a list of documents to make sure your application is complete:
- Evidence of Green Card or Permanent Resident status
- Proof of your current marital status
- Payment of the application fee
- Proof of moral character
- Identity verification
- Two passport-style pictures taken within the last 30 days before submitting your application
- Evidence of your military service
- Proof of any medical disability
- Request for legal counsel at the naturalization interview
Naturalization Application Process
1. Receipt notice
If you file Form N-400 correctly, USCIS will initially reply by mailing you a receipt notification officially known as Form I-797C, Notice of Action.
This notification often arrives 2 to 4 weeks after filing. If you fail to file your Form N400 correctly, USCIS will give you a Notice of Action to deny your application.
A rejection will delay your request and the overall processing period of the N-400.
Thus, preparing the complete supporting documents for your application is vital to the naturalization process.
2. Biometrics appointment
The next step of the application is the biometrics appointment.
The USCIS will mail you an appointment notice indicating the date, time, and place of your biometrics session.
The biometric screening is a brief appointment wherein USCIS collects your fingerprints, photos, and signature. Your appointment notice will specify what you need to bring to the screening.
3. Naturalization interview
USCIS will send you the naturalization interview appointment notice 6 to 9 months after filing Form N-400.
Ensure to attend the scheduled interview. If you cannot attend your appointment, you should inform USCIS as soon as possible. You should know that rescheduling an interview will extend the process by several weeks.
If you fail to notify USCIS or appear for a rescheduled citizenship interview and test, USCIS may “pause” your application.
The citizenship test and interview will be scheduled by USCIS at a location near you and will likely last less than 30 minutes.
4. Naturalization oath ceremony
If your interview went well, the USCIS will notify you to take the Oath of Allegiance (N-445, Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony).
You will not be recognized as a citizen of the United States until you take the Oath of Allegiance during a naturalization ceremony. USCIS administers the oath in an administrative or judicial ceremony.
In many USCIS districts, the ceremonies are conducted solely by a judge. After swearing the Oath of Allegiance, you will turn in your green card and get your Certificate of Naturalization.
How Long Is The Naturalization Processing Time?
The processing time for N400 will vary depending on the following factors:
- the USCIS caseload,
- the USCIS office where you filed, and
- your ability to complete an adequately prepared naturalization application package.
Tips To Speed Up Naturalization Application Process
The application of naturalization can be complex and time-consuming. Nevertheless, there are some pointers to help expedite the application process.
A. Ensure that all information submitted is complete and accurate.
All of the information on your application form must be correct. Any missing or incorrect information could slow down your application process.
Make sure to double-check your Form N400 and supporting documents before submitting. USCIS will process your application faster if you have submitted accurate information.
B. Take note of the deadlines.
It is imperative to adhere to deadlines when submitting applications.
Also, it is best to preserve copies of all documents provided with your application in case they are required later in the approval process.
C. Get assistance from an experienced immigration attorney.
For a smooth application process, it is best to consult an experienced immigration attorney. An attorney can answer your application questions and advise you on how to best proceed with the process.
Accelerate The Processing Time
Filing for an N400 can be complicated and lengthy. If you need assistance with your application, contact Hacking Immigration Law LLC. The firm can help you file your N-400 and ensure that your application is as solid as possible.
An immigration lawyer will help you increase your chances of successfully achieving your goal of becoming a U.S. citizen.
Read Also:
