If you determine that you meet the eligibility requirements to obtain a certificate of citizenship from the USCIS, you must go through the process to obtain the document. The USCIS provides a procedure that allows you to use the N-600 application to apply for citizenship documentation. Once you obtain a certificate of citizenship, you will be able to provide proof for many reasons, such as for university applications, social security, and to apply for employment, among other things.
Before you can fill out and submit the N-600 application, you will need to gather everything you need. First, you must make certain that you meet the eligibility requirements set forth by the USCIS. Next, you will need to gather the documents you need to submit with the application. The documents are evidence that proves your citizenship and allows the USCIS to process your application. You will want to follow the latest instructions that the USCIS provides along with the N-600 application. A knowledgeable citizenship attorney will guide you through the process.
You must submit your birth certificate and two photos of yourself, such as those that are used for passports. You will also need to provide a copy of your parent’s birth certificate and marriage certificate if it applies. Additionally, you must provide proof that your U.S. citizen parent was present in the United States for at least five years. These requirements may differ depending on your specific circumstances.
When you are claiming citizenship based on a naturalized parent, you will need to submit evidence that your parent had lawful permanent resident status, also called a green card. Additional documents may be necessary in some situations. For example, if your parent is a U.S. citizen who was born abroad, you may need to provide documents proving the status of your grandparents.
You must complete the N600 application online or by paper submission. Regardless of the way you complete the application, you must provide the necessary documentation for processing. If the USCIS does not receive the documents they need or if there are mistakes in the application itself, the process could be delayed. Once the USCIS receives your completed application, they will review it to ensure that it meets their needs. If they require any additional information or documentation, they will send you a notice.
The USCIS will send you a notice for other reasons, also. For instance, if they request an interview, they will send you a notice with the date, time, and location of the meeting. It is important to note that generally, you will not receive a notice for standard application processing if the USCIS has the information necessary to complete the process.
Once the USCIS reviews your application and has all the necessary documentation, they will make a decision regarding your request for a Certificate of Citizenship. The USCIS will send their decision in writing. Once approved, the USCIS will schedule a date, time, and place for you to take an Oath of Allegiance. If the USCIS denies your application, you can appeal the decision within 30 days.
The citizenship process can be complicated. A skilled immigration attorney will guide you through the procedure and make sure you know the documents you need to provide to the USCIS as part of the application process. To learn more about the citizenship process, contact our immigration lawyers at Sverdloff Law Group at (312) 238-9090.