What Is the N-400 Naturalization Application?
The N-400, officially known as the Application for Naturalization, is the form used by lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) to apply for U.S. citizenship.
Filing this application is one of the most important steps in your immigration journey; one that grants you the right to vote, obtain a U.S. passport, and enjoy all the protections of U.S. citizenship.
At Ybarra Maldonado Law Group (YMLG), we guide applicants through every part of the naturalization process to avoid delays, mistakes, and denials.
Who Is Eligible to File the N-400 Naturalization Application?
To apply for U.S. citizenship (N-400 Naturalization Application), most applicants must meet the following requirements:
✔ 1. Be at least 18 years old
Minors cannot apply for citizenship on their own.
✔ 2. Be a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder)
You must have valid and continuous permanent resident status.
✔ 3. Meet the residency requirements
There are two main pathways:
5-Year Rule. Most applicants must have: 5 years as a permanent resident; 2.5 years of physical presence in the U.S.; No trips outside the U.S. longer than 6 months.
3-Year Rule (Marriage to a U.S. Citizen). If you’re married to a U.S. citizen, you may apply after: 3 years as a permanent resident; 1.5 years of physical presence; Living “in marital union” with the U.S. citizen spouse.
✔ 4. Good moral character
USCIS reviews the previous 5 years for:
- Criminal history
- Immigration violations
- Failure to pay taxes or child support
- False statements to USCIS or CBP
✔ 5. Ability to read, write, and speak basic English
Some applicants may qualify for English test exemptions.
✔ 6. Pass the U.S. Civics Test
You must correctly answer questions about U.S. government and history.
Documents Needed for the N-400 Naturalization Application
While every case is unique, most applicants must gather:
- Green Card (front and back)
- State ID or driver’s license
- Passports and travel history
- Marriage certificates or divorce decrees (if applicable)
- Tax returns (3–5 years)
- Evidence of spouse’s U.S. citizenship (for 3-year rule)
- Selective Service registration (if applicable)
- Court records for any arrests, charges, or citations
How to File the N-400 Naturalization Application: Step-by-Step Process
1. Prepare and submit Form N-400
You may file online or by mail, but online filing is faster and more convenient.
2. Biometrics Appointment
USCIS will take your fingerprints, photo, and signature.
3. Attend the Naturalization Interview
This includes:
- Review of your N-400 Naturalization Application
- English test (reading, writing, speaking)
- Civics test
4. Receive a USCIS decision
Your case may be:
- Approved
- Continued (requires additional evidence or re-testing)
- Denied
5. Take the Oath of Allegiance
This is the final step. Once you take the oath, you officially become a U.S. Citizen.
Common Reasons USCIS Denies the N-400 Naturalization Application
Some of the most frequent issues include:
- Long trips outside the U.S. (breaking “continuous residence”)
- Failure to pay taxes
- Criminal charges or arrests
- Mistakes or omissions on the application
- Failure of the English or Civics tests
- Marriage fraud suspicion (for 3-year rule applicants)
With our attorneys’ guidance, many of these issues can be addressed before filing.
Fees: How Much Does the N-400 Naturalization Application Cost?
As of 2025, the USCIS filing fee for Form N-400 is $760, which includes biometrics. Fee waivers may be available in some cases.
Do You Need an Immigration Attorney for the N-400 Naturalization Application?
While it’s possible to file the N-400 without legal help, many applicants benefit from an attorney because:
- The law is complex
- USCIS heavily scrutinizes prior immigration history
- Criminal issues (even minor ones) can trigger denial
- Mistakes can cause significant delays
- Marriage-based naturalization requires extra evidence
At YMLG, we guide clients through every step to avoid costly errors.
Conclusion
Applying for U.S. citizenship is a major milestone, and one of the most meaningful steps in your immigration journey. A well-prepared N-400 Naturalization Application ensures a smoother process and increases your chances of approval.
The attorneys at Ybarra Maldonado Law Group are here to support you with:
- Eligibility screening
- Document preparation
- Interview preparation
- Response to USCIS requests
- Legal representation throughout the process
Contact Ybarra Maldonado Law Group
Ready to begin your path to U.S. citizenship?
Our immigration attorneys have extensive experience assisting clients in guiding them through the N-400 Naturalization Application.
📞Call (602) 910-4040 or contact us 💻 online to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced immigration attorney today.