How to Apply for Naturalization

Steps to Apply for Naturalization

Step 1:

Determine your eligibility. Review the naturalization eligibility worksheet (PDF, 300.55 KB) to help you decide if you are eligible to apply for naturalization. Make sure to also check if you qualify for any exceptions and accommodations. 

Step 2:

Prepare to file your form N-400, Application for Naturalization. This form is available to file online. Start by creating your free online account. Read the instructions to complete Form N-400. Collect the necessary documents to demonstrate your eligibility for naturalization. There are exceptions and modifications to the naturalization requirements that are available to those who qualify. Use the document checklist (PDF, 178.19 KB) to make sure you collect all the required documents.  

Step 3:

Attend a free Naturalization Information Session. USCIS regularly holds information sessions for the public. These sessions will help lawful permanent residents and others interested in naturalization learn about the naturalization process, eligibility requirements, testing, and citizenship rights and responsibilities.  

Step 4:

Submit your Form N-400, Application for Naturalization and pay the fees. You may also pay these fees online. Once you submit Form N-400, USCIS will send you a receipt notice. You can check case processing times and your case status online. 

Step 5:

Study for the test. Before your naturalization interview, study for the English and civics test. Naturalization Test and Study Resources are available online for free. You can also find English and/or Citizenship Classes in your community.  

Step 6:

Complete the interview. Once all the preliminary processes on your case are complete, USCIS will schedule an interview with you to complete the naturalization process. You must report to the USCIS office at the date and time on your appointment notice. Please bring the appointment notice with you. 

Step 7:

Receive a decision from USCIS on your application. USCIS will mail a notice of decision to you. If you filed your N-400 online, you can also access the electronic notice in your account. The following are the types of notices you can expect to receive: 

Step 8:

Receive a notice to attend a Naturalization Ceremony and take the Oath of Allegiance. You are not a U.S. citizen until you take the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony. If USCIS approved your Form N-400 prior to your interview date, you may be able to participate in a naturalization ceremony on the same day as your interview.  

What’s next after Naturalization? 

  1. Apply for your U.S. Passport: You can apply for a U.S. Passport using your Naturalization Certificate by visiting a nearby Passport Acceptance Facility. UTD has its very own facility located on campus. Visit the UTD Passport Office website to schedule an appointment.  
  2. If you have any children with you that are under the age of 18 at the time that you became naturalized and who have been admitted to the U.S. as an immigrant for lawful permanent residence, then they might qualify to apply for a U.S. Passport as well. You can review information regarding the Child Citizenship Act of 2000. 
  3. Update citizenship status with the Social Security Administration.  You’ll make this change by requesting a replacement Social Security card. Visit the SSA website for more information. 
  4. Understand your rights as a citizen. Check out this list of some of the most important rights and responsibilities that all citizens — both Americans by birth and by choice — should exercise, honor, and respect. 

Additional Community Resources: 

  • USAHello is an online hub for trustworthy information and educational resources which includes free multilingual online classes to study for the US Citizenship or GED exams as well as hundreds of translated information on immigration policy, education, job preparedness and more. 
  • Proyecto Inmigrante provides immigration counseling services in North Texas and are able to assist individuals with the N-400 application to apply for Citizenship. 
  • Mosaic Family Services offer a Citizenship program, providing assistance in applying for adjustment of status and naturalization, obtaining fee and/or disability waivers, and interpretation and translation services for United States Citizenship & Immigrations Services (USCIS) interviews