The process of becoming a U.S. citizen starts with the citizenship application (Form N-400) and ends with an Oath Ceremony where you pledge allegiance to the U.S.
In general, the processing time for the U.S. citizenship application is at least 6 months from the day you submit the application; however, the time it takes you to become a U.S. citizen will vary depending on the field office or service center processing your case.
Below are some quick facts you should know about the U.S. citizenship application:
How Long is the Citizenship Application?
Form N-400, Application for Naturalization has a total of 20 pages.
How Many Pages of Instructions Are There?
Currently, there are a total of 18 pages of instructions that guide you through the citizenship application. The instructions include information about the types of supporting documents you will have to include with your application, such as copies of identity documents, marriage certificates, utility bills, etc.
What Types of Questions Can You Expect?
In the U.S. citizenship application, you will find questions about your biographical information, your residence, your family, your employment, your education, your trips outside the U.S. and your criminal history.
How Much Does it Cost to Apply for Citizenship?
As of May 2018, the cost of the government filing fees for the citizenship application is $640. In addition to this fee, you must add $85 for biometrics. This brings the total to $725.
Exceptions apply to people who are over the age of 75 (they do not need to get biometrics) and military members (they may not need to pay any government fees).
The government fees can be paid with a money order, personal check, cashier’s check and credit card.
How Do You File Your U.S. Citizenship Application?
The citizenship application, once it’s completed, can be filed by mail or electronically.