Fill Out Your N600 Citizenship Form
The N600 form, formally known as the Application for Certificate of Citizenship, is a critical document for individuals seeking to confirm their U.S. citizenship. This application is primarily for those who qualify through their biological or adoptive parents. It allows applicants to assert their citizenship status officially, which can provide access to a variety of rights and benefits. Completing the N600 requires detailed personal information, including your name, current address, and immigration status. It also necessitates disclosures about your parents’ citizenship, as well as any prior applications for citizenship or U.S. passports. Furthermore, it is essential to accurately detail any changes in your legal status, such as adoption or prior abandonment of lawful permanent resident status. Additionally, you must provide biographical data, including ethnicity, race, height, and other distinguishing features. This form serves as an important step in the journey towards securing legal acknowledgment of your citizenship, ensuring that you have the necessary foundation to enjoy the rights that come with being a U.S. citizen. Understanding the proper execution and requirements of the N600 is key to a smooth application process.
N600 Citizenship Example
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Application for Certificate of Citizenship |
USCIS |
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Department of Homeland Security |
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OMB No. |
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U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services |
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Expires 12/31/2018 |
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For
USCIS
Use
Only
Date Stamp
Remarks
Receipt
Action Block
To be completed by an Attorney or Accredited
Representative (if any).
Select this box if Form
Attorney State Bar Number
(if applicable)
Attorney or Accredited Representative USCIS Online Account Number (if any)
►START HERE - Type or print in black ink.
Part 1. Information About Your Eligibility
1.This application is being filed based on the fact that: (Select only one box)
Enter Your 9 Digit
► A-
I am a BIOLOGICAL child of a U.S. citizen parent.
Other (Explain fully):
I am an ADOPTED child of a U.S. citizen parent.
NOTE: If you need extra space to complete this section, use the space provided in Part 11. Additional Information.
Part 2. Information About You
NOTE: Provide information about yourself if you are a person applying for the Certificate of Citizenship. Provide information about your child if you are a U.S. citizen parent applying for a Certificate of Citizenship for your minor child.
1.Current Legal Name (do not provide a nickname)
Family Name (Last Name) |
Given Name (First Name) |
Middle Name |
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2.Your Name Exactly As It Appears on Your Permanent Resident Card (if different from above)
Family Name (Last Name) |
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Given Name (First Name) |
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Middle Name |
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3.Other Names You Have Used Since Birth
Provide all other names you have ever used, include nicknames, maiden name, and aliases.
Family Name (Last Name) |
Given Name (First Name) |
Middle Name |
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4.U.S. Social Security Number (if any) 5. USCIS Online Account Number (if any)
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6. |
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Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy) |
7. |
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8. |
Country of Prior Citizenship or Nationality |
9. |
Gender |
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Male |
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Female |
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Form |
Page 1 of 15 |
Part 2. Information About You (continued)
10.Mailing Address
In Care Of Name (if any)
A-
Street Number and Name |
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Apt. |
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City or Town |
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ZIP Code + 4 |
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Province (foreign address only) |
Postal Code (foreign address only) Country (foreign address only) |
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11.Physical Address
Street Number and Name (Do not provide a PO Box in this space unless it is your ONLY address.) |
Apt. Ste. Flr. Number |
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City or Town |
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ZIP Code + 4 |
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Province (foreign address only) |
Postal Code (foreign address only) Country (foreign address only) |
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12. |
Current Marital Status |
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Single, Never Married |
Married |
Divorced |
Widowed |
Separated |
Marriage Annulled |
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Other (Explain): |
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13. |
U.S. Armed Forces |
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Are you a member or veteran of any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces? |
Yes |
14.Information About Your Admission into the United States and Current Immigration Status
A.I arrived in the following manner
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Date of Entry (mm/dd/yyyy) |
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No
Exact Name Used at Time of Entry |
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Family Name (Last Name) |
Given Name (First Name) |
Middle Name |
B.I used the following travel document to be admitted to the United States
Passport |
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Travel Document |
Passport Number |
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Travel Document Number |
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Country of Issuance for Passport or Travel Document
Date Passport or Travel Document Issued (mm/dd/yyyy)
Form |
Page 2 of 15 |
Part 2. Information About You (continued)
A-
C.I am

A Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR)

Other (Explain):
A Nonimmigrant
A Refugee/Asylee
NOTE: If you select “Other” and you need extra space to complete this section, use the space provided in Part 11. Additional Information.
D.I obtained LPR status through adjustment of status in the United States or admission as a LPR (if applicable)
Date I became a LPR (mm/dd/yyyy)
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Office That Granted My LPR Status or Location Where I Was Admitted
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Have you previously applied for a Certificate of Citizenship or U.S. Passport? |
Yes |
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If you answered "Yes" to Item Number 15., provide an explanation below. If you need extra space to complete this section, use |
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the space provided in Part 11. Additional Information. |
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Have you ever abandoned or lost your LPR status? |
Yes |
No |
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If you answered "Yes" to Item Number 16., provide an explanation below. If you need extra space to complete this section, use |
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the space provided in Part 11. Additional Information. |
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17.Were you adopted?
If you answered "Yes" to Item Number 17., complete Items A. - D.
Yes
No
A.Place of Final Adoption
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B. Date of Adoption |
C. Date Legal Custody Began |
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D. Date Physical Custody Began |
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18. Did you have to be |
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If you answered "Yes" to Item Number 18., complete Items A. - D. |
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A.Place of Final Adoption
City or Town |
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B. Date of Final Adoption |
C. Date Legal Custody Began |
D. Date Physical Custody Began |
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Were your parents married to each other when you were born (or adopted)? |
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Yes |
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Did your parents marry after you were born? |
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Yes |
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Do you regularly reside in the United States in the legal and physical custody of your U.S. citizen parents? |
Yes |
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No
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Form |
Page 3 of 15 |
Part 2. Information About You (continued)
A-
22.Have you been absent from the United States since you first arrived?
Yes
No
Complete the following information only if you are claiming U.S. citizenship at the time of birth if you were born before October 10, 1952. If you need extra space to complete this section, use the space provided in Part 11. Additional Information.
A. Date You Left the United States (mm/dd/yyyy)
C.Place of Entry Upon Return to the United States
City or Town
D. Date You Left the United States (mm/dd/yyyy)
F.Place of Entry Upon Return to the United States
City or Town
Part 3. Biographic Information
1.Ethnicity (Select only one box)
Hispanic or Latino |
Not Hispanic or Latino |
2.Race (Select all applicable boxes)
White |
Asian |
Black or |
American Indian |
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African American |
or Alaska Native |
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander
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Height Feet |
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5.Eye color (Select only one box)

Black 
Blue 
Brown
6.Hair color (Select only one box)
4. Weight Pounds
Gray 
Green
Hazel
Maroon
Pink 
Unknown/ Other
Bald (No hair)
Black
Blond
Brown
Gray
Red
Sandy
White
Unknown/ Other
Part 4. Information About Your U.S. Citizen Biological Father (or Adoptive Father)
NOTE: Complete this section if you are claiming citizenship through a U.S. biological father (of adoptive father). Provide information about yourself if you are a U.S. citizen father applying for a Certificate of Citizenship on behalf of your minor biological or adopted child.
1.Current Legal Name of U.S. Citizen Father
Family Name (Last Name) |
Given Name (First Name) |
Middle Name |
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Form |
Page 4 of 15 |
Part 4. Information About Your U.S. Citizen Biological Father (or Adoptive Father) (continued)
A-
2. |
Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy) |
3. |
Country of Birth |
4. |
Country of Citizenship or Nationality |
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5.Physical Address
Street Number and Name (Type or print "Deceased" and the date of death if your father has passed away.) Apt. Ste. Flr. Number
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City or Town |
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State |
ZIP Code + 4 |
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Province (foreign address only) |
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6. |
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My father is a U.S. citizen by |
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Birth in the United States |
Acquisition after birth through naturalization of alien parents |
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Birth abroad to U.S. citizen parents |
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Certificate of Citizenship Number |
Alien Registration Number |
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Naturalization
Place of Naturalization (Name of Court or USCIS Office Location)
City or Town |
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State |
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Certificate of Naturalization Number |
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Date of Naturalization (mm/dd/yyyy) |
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7.Has your father ever lost U.S. citizenship or taken any action that would cause loss of U.S. citizenship? If you answered “Yes” to Item Number 7., provide an explanation in Part 11. Additional Information.
Yes
No
8.Marital History
A.How many times has your U.S. citizen father been married (including annulled marriages and marriages to the same person)?
B.What is your U.S. citizen father's current marital status?
Single, Never Married |
Married |
Divorced |
Widowed |
Separated |
Marriage Annulled |
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Other (Explain): |
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If you selected "Other," provide an explanation. If you need extra space to complete this section, use the space provided in Part 11. Additional Information.
Form |
Page 5 of 15 |
Part 4. Information About Your U.S. Citizen Biological Father (or Adoptive Father) (continued)
A-
9.Information About U.S. Citizen Father's Current Spouse
A. |
Family Name (Last Name) |
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Given Name (First Name) |
Middle Name |
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B. |
Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy) |
C. Country of Birth |
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D.Country of Citizenship or Nationality
E.Spouse's Physical Address
Street Number and Name |
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City or Town |
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(foreign address only) |
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F.Date of Marriage (mm/dd/yyyy)
G.Place of Marriage
City or Town |
State |
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H.Spouse's Immigration Status
U.S. Citizen |
Lawful Permanent Resident |
Other (Explain): |
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If you selected "Other," provide an explanation. If you need extra space to complete this section, use the space provided in
Part 11. Additional Information.
I. Is your U.S. citizen father's current spouse also your biological (or adopted) mother? |
Yes |
No |
Part 5. Information About Your U.S. Citizen Biological Mother (or Adoptive Mother)
NOTE: Complete this section if you are claiming citizenship through a U.S. citizen biological mother (or adoptive mother). Provide information about yourself if you are a U.S. citizen mother applying for a Certificate of Citizenship on behalf of your minor biological or adopted child.
1.Current Legal Name of U.S. Citizen Mother
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Family Name (Last Name) |
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Given Name (First Name) |
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Middle Name |
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2. |
Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy) |
3. |
Country of Birth |
4. |
Country of Citizenship or Nationality |
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Form |
Page 6 of 15 |
Part 5. Information About Your U.S. Citizen Biological Mother (or Adoptive Mother) (continued)
A-
5.Physical Address
Street Number and Name (Type or print "Deceased" and the date of death if your mother has passed away.) Apt. Ste. Flr. Number
City or Town |
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State |
ZIP Code + 4 |
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Province (foreign address only) |
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6.My mother is a U.S. citizen by
Birth in the United States |
Acquisition after birth through naturalization of alien parents |
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Birth abroad to U.S. citizen parents |
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Certificate of Citizenship Number |
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Naturalization |
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Place of Naturalization (Name of Court or USCIS Office Location) |
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Certificate of Naturalization Number |
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Date of Naturalization (mm/dd/yyyy) |
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7. |
Has your mother ever lost U.S. citizenship or taken any action that would cause loss of U.S. citizenship? |
Yes |
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If you answered “Yes” to Item Number 7., provide an explanation in Part 11. Additional Information. |
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8.Marital History
A.How many times has your U.S. citizen mother been married (including annulled marriages and marriages to the same person)?
B.What is your U.S. citizen mother's current marital status?
Single, Never Married |
Married |
Divorced |
Widowed |
Separated |
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Other (Explain): |
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Marriage Annulled
If you selected “Other,” provide an explanation. If you need extra space to complete this section, use the space provided in Part 11. Additional Information.
9.Information About U.S. Citizen Mother's Current Spouse
A. |
Family Name (Last Name) |
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Given Name (First Name) |
Middle Name |
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B. |
Date of Birth (mm/dd/yyyy) |
C. Country of Birth |
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Form |
Page 7 of 15 |
Part 5. Information About Your U.S. Citizen Biological Mother (or Adoptive Mother) (continued)
D.Country of Citizenship or Nationality
A-
E.Spouse's Physical Address
Street Number and Name |
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Ste. Flr. Number |
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City or Town |
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ZIP Code + 4 |
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Province |
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(foreign address only) |
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F.Date of Marriage (mm/dd/yyyy)
G.Place of Marriage
City or Town |
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H.Spouse's Immigration Status
U.S. Citizen |
Lawful Permanent Resident |

Other
If you selected “Other,” provide an explanation. If you need extra space to complete this section, use the space provided in Part 11. Additional Information.
I.Is your U.S. citizen mother's current spouse also your biological (or adopted) father?
Yes
No
Part 6. Physical Presence in the United States From Birth Until Filing of Form
NOTE: Only applicants born outside the United States claiming to have been born U.S. citizens are required to provide all the dates when your U.S. citizen biological father or U.S. citizen biological mother resided in the United States. Include all dates from your birth until the date you file your Form
1.Indicate whether this information relates to your U.S. citizen father or mother
U.S. Citizen Father |
U.S. Citizen Mother |
2.Physical Presence in the United States
A. |
From (mm/dd/yyyy) |
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To (mm/dd/yyyy) |
B. |
From (mm/dd/yyyy) |
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To (mm/dd/yyyy) |
C. |
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D. |
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From (mm/dd/yyyy) |
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To (mm/dd/yyyy) |
From (mm/dd/yyyy) |
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To (mm/dd/yyyy) |
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F. |
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From (mm/dd/yyyy) |
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To (mm/dd/yyyy) |
From (mm/dd/yyyy) |
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To (mm/dd/yyyy) |
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H. |
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From (mm/dd/yyyy) |
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To (mm/dd/yyyy) |
From (mm/dd/yyyy) |
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Form |
Page 8 of 15 |
Part 7. Information About Military Service of U. S. Citizen Parents |
A- |
NOTE: Complete this only if you are an applicant claiming U.S. citizenship at time of birth abroad.
1.Has your U.S. citizen parent served in the U.S. Armed Forces?
2.If you answered "Yes" to Item Number 1., which parent served in the U.S. Armed Forces?
Yes
No
U.S. Citizen Father |
U.S. Citizen Mother |
3.Dates of Service (mm/dd/yyyy) (If time of service fulfills any of the required physical presence, submit evidence of the service.)
A. From (mm/dd/yyyy) |
To (mm/dd/yyyy) |
B. From (mm/dd/yyyy) |
To (mm/dd/yyyy) |
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4.Type of Discharge

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Part 8. Applicant's Statement, Contact Information, Certification, and Signature
NOTE: Read the Penalties section of the Form
Applicant's Statement
NOTE: Select the box for either Item A. or B. in Item Number 1. If applicable, select the box for Item Number 2.
1.Applicant's Statement Regarding the Interpreter
A.I can read and understand English, and I have read and understand every question and instruction on this application and my answer to every question.
B.
The interpreter named in Part 9. read to me every question and instruction on this application and my answer to
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understood everything. |
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2.Applicant's Statement Regarding the Preparer

At my request, the preparer named in Part 10.,
prepared this application for me based only upon information I provided or authorized.
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Applicant's Contact Information
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Applicant's Daytime Telephone Number |
4. Applicant's Mobile Telephone Number (if any) |
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5.Applicant's Email Address (if any)
Applicant's Certification
Copies of any documents I have submitted are exact photocopies of unaltered, original documents, and I understand that USCIS may require that I submit original documents to USCIS at a later date. Furthermore, I authorize the release of any information from any of my records that USCIS may need to determine my eligibility for the immigration benefit I seek.
I further authorize release of information contained in this application, in supporting documents, and in my USCIS records to other entities and persons where necessary for the administration and enforcement of U.S. immigration laws.
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Page 9 of 15 |
Part 8. Applicant's Statement, Contact Information, Certification, and Signature (continued)
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I understand that USCIS may require me to appear for an appointment to take my biometrics (fingerprints, photograph, and/or signature) and, at that time, if I am required to provide biometrics, I will be required to sign an oath reaffirming that:
1)I reviewed and provided or authorized all of the information in my application;
2)I understood all of the information contained in, and submitted with, my application; and
3)All of this information was complete, true, and correct at the time of filing.
I certify, under penalty of perjury, that I provided or authorized all of the information in my application, I understand all of the information contained in, and submitted with, my application, and that all of this information is complete, true, and correct.
Applicant's Signature
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Applicant's Signature (sign in ink) |
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Date of Signature (mm/dd/yyyy) |
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NOTE TO ALL APPLICANTS: If you do not completely fill out this application or fail to submit required documents listed in the Instructions, USCIS may deny your application.
Part 9. Interpreter's Contact Information, Certification, and Signature
Provide the following information about the interpreter.
Interpreter's Full Name
1. Interpreter's Family Name (Last Name) |
Interpreter's Given Name (First Name) |
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2.Interpreter's Business or Organization Name (if any)
Interpreter's Mailing Address
3. Street Number and Name |
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Apt. Ste. Flr. |
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City or Town |
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Interpreter's Contact Information
4. |
Interpreter's Daytime Telephone Number |
5. Interpreter's Mobile Telephone Number (if any) |
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6.Interpreter's Email Address (if any)
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Page 10 of 15 |
Form Characteristics
| Fact Name | Detail |
|---|---|
| Purpose of the Form | The N-600 form is used to apply for a Certificate of Citizenship, confirming that a person has U.S. citizenship status. |
| Eligibility Basis | Applicants must select one basis for eligibility, such as being a biological or adopted child of a U.S. citizen. |
| Department In Charge | The form is administered by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), part of the Department of Homeland Security. |
| Filing Methods | The N-600 can be filed online or by submitting a paper form via mail to the appropriate USCIS address. |
| Prior Applications | Applicants must disclose if they have previously applied for a Certificate of Citizenship or a U.S. Passport. |
| Current Status Requirement | Individuals must provide documentation of their current lawful permanent resident status or any other immigration status upon entry to the U.S. |
| Legal Name Requirement | The form requires your current legal name; nicknames should not be used. |
| Documentation of Parents | Information about the U.S. citizen biological or adoptive parent must be provided, detailing their citizenship status and history. |
| Adoption Information | If applicable, details about the adoption must be disclosed, including the place and dates of adoption. |
| Filing Fee | A filing fee is typically required when submitting the form; check USCIS guidelines for the most current fee structure. |
Guidelines on Utilizing N600 Citizenship
Filling out the N600 Citizenship form can seem daunting, but following a clear step-by-step process can make it manageable. Once you've gathered the necessary documents and information, you can move on to submitting your application to the appropriate authorities.
- Understand Your Eligibility: Begin by determining your eligibility for citizenship. Check the criteria listed on the form and select the appropriate box that applies to you.
- Gather Personal Information: Collect your personal details such as your full legal name, Social Security Number, and date of birth. Ensure you provide accurate and complete information.
- Provide Additional Names: If you have used any other names, including nicknames or maiden names, list them as required.
- Mailing and Physical Address: Fill in your current mailing address and a physical address where you reside. Avoid using a P.O. Box unless it’s your only address.
- Current Marital Status: Indicate your current marital status. The options will allow you to specify if you're single, married, divorced, or in another situation.
- U.S. Armed Forces: Answer the question regarding your service or veteran status in the U.S. Armed Forces.
- Information About Your Immigration: Detail how you entered the United States, including any tickets or documents used. Indicate your immigration status, such as whether you are a Lawful Permanent Resident.
- Adoption Information: If applicable, provide details related to your adoption, including dates and places of custody.
- Parental Information: Fill out sections regarding your biological or adoptive parents. Include their details, such as names, dates of birth, and citizenship status.
- Submit Supporting Documents: Gather all necessary documentation, such as birth certificates, proof of citizenship for parents, and evidence of your lawful status. Attach these documents when you submit your application.
- Review and Sign: Before submitting, carefully review your application for accuracy. Make sure to sign and date the form at the end.
- Send Your Application: Finally, mail your completed application and all supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS address as specified in the instructions.
What You Should Know About This Form
What is the N600 form and who should use it?
The N600 form, officially known as the Application for Certificate of Citizenship, is for individuals who have a claim to U.S. citizenship. It is typically used by those who are biological children or adopted children of U.S. citizen parents. If you want to affirm your citizenship status or claim your certificate, this form is your key document. You should apply using this form if you were born abroad and your U.S. citizen parent meets the legal requirements for transmitting citizenship to you.
How do I complete the N600 form?
Completing the N600 form requires you to provide precise information about yourself and your relationship to your U.S. citizen parent. Start by carefully filling out personal details like your legal name, date of birth, and current address. It's critical to state whether you are a biological or adopted child of a U.S. citizen. If your application involves adoption, you will need to provide additional documents showing proof of adoption. Ensure you read each section thoroughly and provide as much detail as possible. Mistakes can lead to delays or issues with your application.
Is there a fee to submit the N600 form?
Yes, there is a fee for submitting the N600 form. As of October 2023, the fee is typically around $1,170, though it is essential to check the latest form instructions or the USCIS website for any updates in fees. If you're facing financial hardship, you might qualify for a fee waiver, which you can request by completing a separate form when you submit your N600.
How long does it take to process the N600 application?
The processing time for an N600 application can vary based on several factors, including the volume of applications received and the specifics of your case. Generally, you can anticipate a wait of several months, but keep in mind that it might take longer if additional information is needed or if your application is selected for further review. You can track the status of your application online through the USCIS portal.
What happens after my N600 application is approved?
Once your N600 application is approved, you will receive your Certificate of Citizenship. This certificate serves as proof of your U.S. citizenship, which is essential for various legal matters, including obtaining a U.S. passport or enrolling in certain government programs. Keep this document in a safe place, as it will be important throughout your life.
Can I appeal if my N600 application is denied?
If your application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. This typically involves filing a Form I-290B, Notice of Appeal or Motion. It's advisable to thoroughly review the reason for denial outlined in the decision letter and seek guidance on how to strengthen your appeal. Make sure to adhere to any deadlines set forth by USCIS for filing your appeal.
Common mistakes
Filling out the N600 Citizenship form can be a significant step towards obtaining a Certificate of Citizenship. However, applicants often make mistakes that can lead to delays or denials. Here are seven common mistakes to avoid.
Firstly, many applicants fail to provide the correct legal name. It is essential to enter your name as it appears on official documents, excluding any nicknames. Providing inconsistent names could result in confusion during the processing of your application.
Secondly, misunderstanding who qualifies as a U.S. citizen parent is another frequent error. Applicants should accurately select among the categories, such as biological or adopted children of U.S. citizens. Each category may have different requirements, and misclassification can complicate the application process.
Thirdly, some people neglect to provide complete and correct contact information. It is crucial to include both a mailing address and a physical address, avoiding the use of a P.O. Box unless it is the only address available. Missing or incorrect addresses could prevent the communication of important information regarding the application status.
Another mistake involves not disclosing all other names. The form requests comprehensive information, including maiden names, aliases, and nicknames. Omitting any previous names can raise red flags during the review process and delay the application.
Additionally, failing to answer all questions thoroughly results in increased scrutiny of the application. For instance, questions about previous applications for citizenship or U.S. passports should be answered accurately. If the answer is “Yes,” applicants should provide clarifying details as requested.
Misremembering Dates of Events is yet another pitfall. Applicants must provide precise dates for various life events, such as birth, marriage, or entry into the United States. Even small inaccuracies in dates can create significant complications and bring about delays in processing.
Finally, neglecting to sign and date the application can lead to an automatic rejection. An unsigned application is considered incomplete. Consequently, it is important to review the form carefully and ensure that all sections are filled out and confirmed with a signature before submission.
In conclusion, being aware of these common mistakes can help streamline the application process for a Certificate of Citizenship. A meticulous approach to filling out the N600 form can ensure that applicants avoid unnecessary complications and achieve their immigration objectives.
Documents used along the form
The N600 Citizenship form, which is an application for a Certificate of Citizenship, is often supported by additional documents that help verify the applicant’s eligibility and identity. Below is a list of commonly used forms and documents that complement the N600 application, providing necessary context and evidence as part of the citizenship process.
- Form G-28: This form serves as a notice of entry of appearance as an attorney or accredited representative. It designates a legal representative who can act on behalf of the applicant during the application process. This is essential for individuals seeking legal guidance or representation.
- Permanent Resident Card (Green Card): A copy of the applicant's Green Card is crucial as it verifies their lawful permanent residency status in the United States. This document includes personal information such as the applicant’s name, card number, and expiration date.
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship of the Parent: Documentation that proves the U.S. citizenship of the applicant's parent is necessary. This can include a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate. Such proof establishes the familial relationship and the basis for citizenship eligibility.
- Adoption Records: For applicants who are adopted, official adoption papers may be required. These records document the adoption process and establish the legal relationship between the adoptive parent and the child, which is important for citizenship claims.
Understanding and gathering these important documents can greatly assist in the efficient processing of the N600 Citizenship form. Each document plays a pivotal role in substantiating the applicant’s claims and ensuring the proper evaluation of their citizenship status. Seeking assistance from legal experts can also streamline this process and provide additional reassurance.
Similar forms
The N600 Citizenship form, used to apply for a Certificate of Citizenship, shares similarities with several other important documents. Below is a list of these documents and how they relate to the N600 form:
- Form N-400: Application for Naturalization - This form is utilized by permanent residents to apply for U.S. citizenship. Both forms require similar personal information, including details about residency and eligibility, but the N-400 is specifically for individuals seeking naturalization, while the N600 is for those who already qualify through their parents.
- Form I-130: Petition for Alien Relative - This form is filed by U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents on behalf of relatives seeking a green card. Like the N600, it requires comprehensive information about family relationships and the petitioner's citizenship, emphasizing the familial connection in determining eligibility.
- Form I-485: Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status - While primarily for individuals looking to adjust their status to permanent resident, this form includes a range of personal and biographic details akin to the N600. Both forms assess eligibility based on familial relationships, although the N600 finalizes citizenship status rather than residency.
- Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport - This document serves those wanting to apply for a passport. Similar to the N600, it requires proof of U.S. citizenship, thus emphasizing the need for accurate personal information and documentation that validates citizenship claims.
Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the N600 Citizenship form, attention to detail is critical. Here are four essential do's and don'ts to keep in mind:
- Do use black ink when completing the form. This ensures clarity and legibility.
- Do provide accurate information regarding names and dates. Consistency is key to avoid processing delays.
- Don't leave any sections blank. If a question doesn't apply, write "N/A" instead.
- Don't forget to double-check your entries before submission. Errors could lead to complications in your application.
Misconceptions
The N600 Citizenship form serves as an important tool for individuals seeking a Certificate of Citizenship. However, misunderstandings about this form can cause confusion and anxiety. Here are some common misconceptions:
- Only people born in the U.S. can apply using this form. Many believe that only individuals born in the U.S. are eligible. In fact, those who have U.S. citizen parents or guardians can also apply, even if born abroad.
- The process is the same for all applicants. It's a common thought that every applicant follows the same steps. However, the eligibility criteria and required documents can vary based on individual circumstances, such as whether the applicant is biological or adopted.
- You cannot apply if you are over the age of 18. Some may assume that there are age restrictions. However, anyone over 18 can still apply for a Certificate of Citizenship if they meet the eligibility requirements.
- Even if I was adopted by U.S. citizens, I automatically gain citizenship. Adoption does not automatically confer citizenship. The N600 form is necessary to formalize citizenship through an application process.
- The Citizenship form can be filled out by anyone. There is a belief that anyone can assist in filling out the N600. In truth, it should be completed by the applicant or an authorized representative, and accuracy is paramount.
- Once submitted, the form guarantees citizenship. Simply submitting the form is not a guarantee of citizenship status. Each application undergoes evaluation, and approvals are based on eligibility and documentation.
- You will receive an immediate response after submission. Many expect instant feedback post-submission. The processing time can vary greatly—patience is essential, as it may take months to receive a decision.
- Legal counsel is unnecessary. While some might think legal representation is optional, having an attorney familiar with immigration law can help navigate complexities of the application and minimize errors.
By understanding these misconceptions, applicants can approach the N600 Citizenship process with clarity and confidence. The journey may seem daunting, but with accurate information, it can lead to successful outcomes.
Key takeaways
- Eligibility Criteria: Applicant must identify their relationship to a U.S. citizen parent, either as a biological or adopted child. Choosing the correct option is essential for the application to proceed.
- Accurate Information: It is crucial to provide accurate and complete information about your current legal name, addresses, and any other names used since birth. Failure to do so may delay the processing time.
- Documentation: Supporting documentation may be required, including proof of your U.S. citizen parent's status. Gather necessary documents such as birth certificates, naturalization certificates, and adoption records before submitting the form.
- Prior Applications: If you have previously applied for a Certificate of Citizenship or U.S. Passport, disclose this in the application. Providing this information can help avoid complications in the review process.
- Legal Assistance: Consider consulting with an immigration attorney or accredited representative if you have questions about the application. An expert can guide you and ensure that all required information is correctly submitted.
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