Have questions
about citizenship?
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Find out if you qualify to apply.
2. File your application, documents, and pay the fee.
3. Go to your biometrics (fingerprinting) appointment.
4. Go to your interview (test).
5. Go to your ceremony.
The basic requirements say you must:
- Be at least 18.
-
Be a permanent resident (have a green card) for at least:
- 5 years, or
- 3 years if you are married to a U.S. citizen.
- Read, write and speak basic English; and
- Understand basic U.S. civics.
For most people, the fee is $725. This includes:
- $640 application fee, and
- $85 for fingerprinting.
Exception: If you are 75 or older, you only pay $640.
You can pay by:
- check,
- money order, or
- credit card.
You may ask USCIS for a full or reduced fee waiver. If USCIS approves your:
Use this
Fee Calculator from the
New American Campaign to see if you qualify for a fee waiver.
Citizenshipworks is free! We can also connect you to free or low-cost help for your application or fee waiver.
It depends on where you live. After USCIS receives your application, it can take 6 months - 2 years (or more).
To see processing times in your area, check
USCIS Processing Times. Under “Form,” select N-400. Under “Field Office,” select the office closest to you.
You will have an interview with a USCIS officer. The interview is your test. It has 2 parts: English and U.S. Civics.
English:You must show you can speak, read, and write basic English. Answer the officer’s questions in English. The officer will also ask you to read out loud and write some sentences about Civics.
Civics: USCIS has a list of
100 Civics questions. The officer will you ask up to 10 questions from this list. To pass, you must answer at least 6 questions correctly.
Download the Citizenshipworks app. It has English and Civics study tools, like interactive flashcards for Android and iOS devices.
Need more help?
If you don’t pass the first time, you can take the test again. USCIS will give you another interview.
If you do not pass the second time, USCIS will deny your application. You will have to start over and fill out a new application.
Everyone needs to provide copies of both sides of their permanent resident card (green card).
You will provide other documents, too, depending on your situation. Find the full list of documents you might need at the
USCIS Document Checklist.
Yes. USCIS will mail you a notice after you file your application. The notice says they received your application, and gives you a Receipt Number. Use the Receipt Number to check your
USCIS Case Status Online.
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