US Citizenship through Naturalization (N-400)

Individuals who have been green card holders for five years (three years if married to a United States citizen) are eligible to apply for citizenship through the N-400 naturalization process.

The current average processing time for Form N-400 is a little over 12 months (as of June 2021). Generally, however, the speed of processing depends on the USCIS field office handling the application.

In addition to other requirements

• A copy of both sides of your green card (Form I-551, officially called the “Permanent Resident Card”)
• Application fee payment (by check or money order, with your A-Number written on the back, or by credit card using Form G-1450)

Some applicants must submit additional supporting documents with their N-400, based on their particular circumstances, including:

• Proof of your current marital status, if you’re married or were previously married (marriage certificate, divorce papers, annulment certificate(s), and/or death certificate(s) for former spouses)
• Two 2-inch-by-2-inch passport-style photos, if you live and are applying from abroad.
• Form N-426, officially called the “Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service,” if you’re applying for citizenship based on your military service
• Form N-648, officially called the “Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions,” if you’re applying for an exemption to the U.S. citizenship test based on a qualifying medical condition