Learn the steps for becoming a U.S. citizen including how to apply, sample test questions and what is the naturalization process. Also, find information on dual citizenship, how to get proof of your U.S. citizenship if you were born abroad or replace your lost or stolen citizenship certificate. Show
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U.S. Citizenship through NaturalizationBecoming a citizen through naturalization is a process in which a non-U.S. citizen voluntarily becomes an American citizen. U.S. citizens:
Review this visual overview about the general naturalization process. To become a U.S. citizen, you must:
Helpful Resources For Citizenship
Take the U.S. Naturalization TestOne of the requirements in the naturalization process is taking the U.S. Naturalization Test. The Naturalization Test has two components: a civics test and an English test. Find study resources for the test.
Certificates of Citizenship and NaturalizationCertificates of Citizenship and Naturalization are proof of your U.S. citizenship. Get a Certificate of Citizenship or Certificate of NaturalizationApply for a Certificate of Citizenship if:
Foreign nationals receive a Certificate of Naturalization when they become American citizens. Get certified copies of a Certificate of Naturalization. Replace Your Citizenship or Naturalization CertificatesReplace your Certificate of Citizenship or Certificate of Naturalization if it was lost or stolen using form N-565. If you have further questions, contact U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Dual Citizenship or NationalityDual citizenship (or dual nationality) means a person may be a citizen of the United States and another country at the same time. U.S. law does not require a person to choose one citizenship or another. If you're a citizen of another country, contact that country's embassy or consulate for information about its:
If you have dual citizenship and plan to travel to or from the United States, you must use a U.S. passport to enter and leave the United States. A licensed attorney skilled in citizenship matters can assist you with questions about your situation. A local bar association can often provide a good referral. You may also want to learn about giving up or losing your U.S. citizenship. Establish Citizenship Without a Birth CertificateIf you were born in the U.S. and there is no birth certificate on file, you will need several different documents to prove your citizenship:
If you were born outside the United States and your U.S. parent(s) did not register your birth at the U.S. Embassy or consulate, you may apply for a U.S. passport, but you will need:
If you were born outside the U.S. and your U.S. parent(s) registered your birth with a U.S. Embassy, the U.S. Department of State (DOS) will be able to help you get a copy of a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240). U.S. Citizenship for People Born Abroad or in U.S. TerritoriesYou are a U.S. citizen if:
Learn more about births of U.S. citizens abroad. Last Updated: October 20, 2022 TopHow do I obtain a copy of my Naturalization certificate?If you need a Certificate of Naturalization, you may request a replacement by filing form N-565, Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document. You may request Form N-565 by calling the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Forms Line (800) 870-3676 or download via link.
Can I see my certificate of Naturalization online?You may access their records through the Genealogy Program. Their website is www.uscis.gov. More details are listed below under Using the Genealogy Program at the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services.
How much does it cost to get a copy of your Naturalization certificate?$555. If you file your Form N-565 online, you may pay your fee online. If you file your Form N-565 by mail (paper), you may pay the fee with a money order, personal check, cashier's check, or by credit card using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions.
How long does it take to get replacement of Naturalization certificate?HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO REPLACE A CITIZENSHIP DOCUMENT? After filing Form N-565, Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document, your N-565 processing time can take anywhere from 5 to 8 months. This is an approximation. It may be shorter for some and longer for others.
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