For an immigrant in the United States, the American naturalization certificate is one of the most important documents. It represents the culmination of years of effort and access to full rights as a citizen.
According to figures from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), in 2023 more than 878,500 people were naturalized in the United States, one of the highest figures in the last decade. Thousands of immigrants today can enjoy the security and stability that comes with being a U.S. citizen.
But before we get to this point, it’s important to understand how the process works, what the requirements are, and what goes into obtaining and keeping the naturalization certificate. Many make mistakes along the way, from filling out a form incorrectly to not correcting a piece of information in the document in time, which delays their access to key benefits.
If you find yourself in this process, our team of Immigration Lawyers can accompany you. We are Hispanics who protect Hispanics, and our mission is to make your transition to citizenship as clear, fast, and secure as possible.
What is the American Certificate of Naturalization?
The American Certificate of Naturalization is the official document issued by the USCIS that confirms that a person became a U.S. citizen through the naturalization process.
This type of certification is used as primary proof of citizenship to access services, apply for a passport, register to vote, access government benefits, and obtain certain jobs.
With the American naturalization certificate an immigrant can:
- Apply for a U.S. passport.
- Access federal and other jobs that require citizenship.
- Register in the electoral registry.
- Access to public benefits reserved for citizens.
- Process documents abroad that require proof of your citizenship.
Who needs it and when?
Every person who naturalizes needs this document. It is delivered right after the swearing-in ceremony. If you are already naturalized and have lost your U.S. citizenship certificate, it must be replaced with Form N-565.
In this context, it is common to confuse the N600 form with what it is and when it is used. The application applies when a person obtains citizenship automatically, without the need to go through naturalization.
Naturalization: The Basics Before the Certificate
Before obtaining the certificate, you must go through the naturalization process, which involves complying with legal requirements and a moral and cultural commitment to your new nation.
The process can vary from person to person. Permanent residents married to U.S. citizens can apply after three years of residency, while others must wait five years.
Some applicants may be exempt from the English test based on age and length of residence, although they must still demonstrate knowledge of American history and civics.
General requirements to naturalize
- Be a lawful permanent resident for at least 5 years (3 if you are married to a citizen).
- Have good moral character.
- Pass the English and civics test.
- Comply with the periods of residence and physical presence.
- File Form N-400 and attend biometrics interviews and appointments.
Oath ceremony
The certificate is awarded at the oath ceremony, where loyalty to the United States is pledged. This act is much more than a requirement, it represents the commitment to fulfill civic duties as a citizen, respect the laws and participate in the democratic life of the country. At that time, the American naturalization certificate is officially delivered.
What to expect when becoming a citizen?
Becoming a U.S. citizen has multiple benefits and responsibilities. Among the most important advantages are:
- Vote in elections.
- Travel with a U.S. passport.
- Apply for family visas.
- Access federal benefits.
In turn, it implies obligations. As a citizen, you must register for selective service (if you are a male between the ages of 18 and 26), fulfill prosecutorial duties, and participate in jury trials if summoned. These responsibilities strengthen democracy and demonstrate your full integration into American society.
Content and characteristics of the certificate
The USA Naturalization Certificate includes personal and official data, such as:
- Full name.
- Date of birth.
- Certificate number.
- Date of naturalization.
- Photo and signature of the holder.
- Authority that issues the document.
Many wonder where the certificate of American citizenship is signed. The signature of the new citizen appears on the document at the time of the ceremony, as part of the official USCIS record, this document is high security, so it includes marks that make it difficult to forge.
Versions and updates
Over the years, USCIS has made changes to the certificate to strengthen security and prevent fraud.
On the official USCIS website you can review details about the current formats and the process of replacement, naturalization and Form N-565, Application for Replacement of Naturalization Document.
The price of the USA naturalization certificate varies over time, however, if you have a certificate with an earlier design, it is valid as long as there are no errors in the information.
Importance of verifying data
When you receive your certificate, you should carefully review every detail. A mistake in your name, date of birth, or registration number may seem minor, but it may prevent you from applying for a passport or accessing benefits.
In some cases, USCIS makes clerical errors during printing. If you notice a bug, you should request correction immediately through Form N-565, at no additional cost if it was USCIS’s responsibility. If the error comes from the applicant, the fee must be paid.
When do you need to process or replace the certificate?
It’s not always about getting it for the first time. It may also be necessary to arrange a replacement in specific situations.
Common cases:
- New naturalized: he does not have it yet.
- Loss, theft or damage of the document.
- Legal change of name or gender.
- Mistakes made by USCIS.
- Recognition abroad: Some countries require a special certificate to validate citizenship.
Steps to process the naturalization certificate
Each procedure depends on the situation of the person requesting it:
1. If you are not yet a citizen
- File Form N-400.
- Meet residency, English, and civics requirements.
- Attend the interview and exam.
- Participate in the swearing-in ceremony.
2. If you’re already a citizen but need a replacement
- File Form N-565.
- Attach identity documents and proof of the situation (e.g., police report if stolen).
- Pay the corresponding fee (The American citizenship certificate price varies, but currently the USCIS fee exceeds $500 according to the official website.).
3. Documents to be attached
- Copy of your green card or passport.
- Police report (if applicable).
- Legal documents of name/gender change.
- Marriage or divorce certificates (if applicable).
4. Interview and biometrics
In some cases, USCIS may schedule you for biometrics or interviews. This is especially true for replacement requests for identity or security changes.
5. Oath ceremony
If this is your first naturalization, the certificate is issued after you have sworn allegiance. If it is just replacement, USCIS mails it once approved.
Common Problems and How to Avoid Them
- Form errors: Many people confuse the N-400 (for naturalization) with the N-565 (for replacement).
- Lack of correct documents: Submitting incomplete evidence can delay the process by months.
- Forgetting to notify USCIS of a change of address: A certificate can be lost if USCIS sends it to the wrong address.
- Wrong information on the certificate: not correcting in time complicates other official procedures.
The best way to avoid these problems is to carefully read USCIS instructions and, if possible, consult with an immigration attorney who will verify your documents before submitting them.
When is the help of a lawyer indispensable?
Although many think that the certificate process is simple, the reality is that there are situations where a lawyer is essential.
- If you have a complicated immigration history, legal background, or problems with USCIS, an attorney can avoid mistakes that put your citizenship at risk.
- Special cases such as identity changes, international certificates or complex corrections require specialized legal support.
- If USCIS denies your application or you need to appeal, an experienced attorney can present strong arguments and walk you through the process.
As Immigration Attorneys, we understand the challenge that comes with the American naturalization certificate.
The specialists at Lorenzo Law Group / Immigration Lawyers offer comprehensive accompaniment, from the filing of the form to the resolution of complex legal problems. If you find yourself in this immigration process, contact us today.
