N-400 — Application for Naturalization
The primary form to apply for US citizenship. Filed by lawful permanent residents who meet the continuous residence, physical presence, and other eligibility requirements.
N-600 — Application for Certificate of Citizenship
For individuals who automatically acquired or derived US citizenship through a US citizen parent (e.g., born abroad to a US citizen, or child of a naturalized parent). This is not for applying for citizenship — only for documenting citizenship that already exists by law.
N-565 — Application for Replacement Naturalization Certificate
To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Certificate of Naturalization (Form N-550/N-570) or Certificate of Citizenship (N-560/N-561).
Fee Waivers & Reduced Fees for N-400
| Fee Level | Amount | Eligibility (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Full fee (online) | $710 | All applicants |
| Reduced fee | $380 | Household income ≤400% FPL (~$62,600 for 1 person in 2026) |
| Full waiver (I-912) | $0 | Income ≤150% FPL, means-tested benefit recipient, or demonstrated hardship |
| Military exemption | $0 | Active duty/honorably discharged filing under INA §328 or §329 |
FPL = Federal Poverty Level. 2026 guidelines: $15,650/year for 1 person; +$5,500 per additional person (contiguous 48 states).
Naturalization Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | General Rule | Married to US Citizen |
|---|---|---|
| LPR (green card) hold time | 5 years | 3 years |
| Continuous residence | 5 years (no trip >6 months) | 3 years |
| Physical presence | 30 months (of 5 years) | 18 months (of 3 years) |
| State/district residence | 3 months before filing | 3 months |
| Minimum age | 18 | 18 |
| English proficiency | Required (reading, writing, speaking) | Required |
| Civics test | 6/10 correct (100-question bank) | 6/10 correct |
| Good moral character | During statutory period | During statutory period |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be exempt from the English and civics test?
50/20 and 55/15 exemptions: LPRs who are 50+ years old with 20+ years of LPR status, or 55+ with 15+ years of LPR status, are exempt from the English requirement but must still take the civics test in their native language.
Medical disability (N-648): Applicants with qualifying physical or developmental disabilities or mental impairments that prevent learning English or civics may be exempt from both requirements.
Age 65+ with 20 years LPR: May take a simplified 20-question civics exam (answering 6 of 20 correctly).
How long does the naturalization process take in 2026?
Average processing time is 12–18 months from filing, though times vary significantly by field office. After your interview, most decisions are made the same day or within a few weeks. After approval, you receive a notice to appear at a naturalization ceremony where you take the Oath of Allegiance and receive your Certificate of Naturalization.
Do I lose my green card if my naturalization is denied?
Generally no — a denied naturalization application does not automatically revoke your LPR status or green card. However, USCIS may discover issues during the N-400 process (such as past criminal history or immigration violations) that could trigger separate removal proceedings. Consult an immigration attorney if you have any concerns about your background before filing.