Naturalization when can you apply

This is because some U. Completing your application right the first time — and getting started on the process as early as possible — is also crucial to a successful naturalization process. For more details, please see this immigration policy alert from Boundless. We teamed up with RapidVisa so you get the fastest, best naturalization service. Apply through us, and be ready to file in 3 months or less.

The first step of the process takes slightly more than 14 months, on average, but can be faster or slower depending on your location.

Note that the processing time for an N application is from receipt through the oath ceremony, not approval of the application. Sending your U. If any of your documents is written in a language other than English, you must obtain a certified English translation of that document, as well — so be mindful of these extra steps, which can take additional time to complete. Any missing information or documentation will likely slow down the process.

USCIS typically schedules the required biometrics appointment about one month after they receive your U. These will be used to verify your identity. Sometimes, however, a second biometrics appointment is necessary for other reasons. In the relatively unlikely event that the FBI rejects your fingerprints, for instance, USCIS will send you a new appointment letter to take a second set of fingerprints.

These documents could be court or police records if USCIS discovers information during the background check that needs clarification or substantiation, for instance. Get started today! The citizenship interview usually takes place about 14 months, on average, after USCIS receives your naturalization application sooner or later for some applicants. USCIS will send you a letter — only once — with the date and location of your interview, as well as a list of any documents that you must bring.

For a successful interview, make sure that you:. You will then receive a new letter with a revised date and time, but this could be several months in the future, which underscores the importance of showing up on the original date. In most cases, the citizenship exam is scheduled on the same day as your interview. You will be asked to return to the appointment location about 60 to 90 days following the initial date of your exam.

If you let a year go by without contacting USCIS after they pause your application, you will be denied. If this happens, you will need to start the process all over again and pay the fees a second time.

Together we can help you complete your citizenship application and guide you all the way to the finish line. Otherwise, USCIS will have days four months from the date of your citizenship interview and exam to send you its decision in writing.

You can expect one of three outcomes:. Your application is approved , in which case you can move on to Step 5 below. Together we can help you stay on top of your naturalization forms , complete your citizenship application and guide you all the way to the finish line.

All naturalization applicants must include supporting documents with their Form N If you file your application online , you will need to upload digital copies scans or photos of these documents to your online USCIS account. Required documents for all applicants include:. Some applicants must submit additional supporting documents with their N, based on their particular circumstances, including:.

Head over here for a full list of the required documents. Filing your application package is only the first step of the naturalization process.

It could be several months or more until you obtain U. Do use black ink only. If you decide to complete your application by hand, make sure to use the correct color of ink to prevent any delays. Do review your Form N before filing. Any missing information or document could delay processing. Worse, it could lead to a denial of your application — based on a new USCIS policy that raises the stakes of completing immigration applications accurately the first time — which means you would need to go through the process again and pay the filing fee a second time.

Do provide translations. If any of your supporting documents was produced in a language other than English, you will need to obtain a certified English translation of that document with your N application. Do not highlight, cross out, or type or write beyond the space provided for your answer. USCIS prefers this instead of using correcting fluid or tape to correct an error.

The Form N instructions will clearly indicate which documents are required to be submitted as photocopies versus originals. If your signature is missing from your application when USCIS receives it, they will most likely reject that is, refuse to accept your application and ask you to send a new one. A recent USCIS policy change, however, makes it imperative to follow all USCIS instructions carefully, as a single mistake or missing document could lead to a denial of your application.

What should I put down on my application as my physical and mailing addresses? The location of your appointment will be determined by your ZIP code. Because these letters contain sensitive information, many people prefer to use their actual home address to receive their mail.

Can I expedite Form N? What can I expect during my interview after I file Form N? Usually lasting around 20 minutes, the interview is the chance to verify the information you have sent through with your application. Read the guidance to check if you can apply and what documents you need to provide. This will not affect the decision.

Fill in the form online. You can also apply by post. This will take much longer than applying online because of coronavirus. Avoid applying by post, especially if you need your documents back by a specific date. You must have been physically present in the UK exactly 5 years before the Home Office receives your application. If you apply online, your application will be received on the same day. It will take longer if you apply by post.

If you live in the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man or a British overseas territory , you have to apply in person or by post instead. You can get help with completing the online form if you:.

An agent or representative is a private company or individual that can help you with your application and give you advice. You can also use some solicitors or barristers that are not registered with the OISC.