Form N-400
Application for Naturalization
Apply to become a U.S. citizen — the application a lawful permanent resident files to naturalize after meeting the residence, physical-presence, and good-moral-character requirements.
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What is Form N-400?
Form N-400 is the naturalization application. Most applicants are eligible after five years as a permanent resident (three years if married to and living with a U.S. citizen), with continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S. for the required portion of that time, and good moral character. The application asks in detail about your residence and travel history, employment, family, and any encounters with law enforcement or immigration authorities.
After filing you attend a biometrics appointment, then an interview where a USCIS officer reviews your application and administers the English and civics tests (with age- and disability-based exceptions). If approved, you take the Oath of Allegiance at a ceremony and receive a Certificate of Naturalization.
- Who needs it
- Lawful permanent residents who meet the eligibility requirements and want to become U.S. citizens. Certain members of the U.S. military and their spouses have modified requirements and may use additional forms.
- Deadline
- No deadline. You can file up to 90 days before you complete the required 5 (or 3) years of permanent residence. Keep your Green Card valid while the application is pending.
- How to submit
- File online through a USCIS account, or mail the paper form to the USCIS lockbox address listed for your state on the N-400 page. Fee waivers and reductions are available for applicants who qualify.
Form N-400 — line-by-line
Parts 1–3 — Eligibility and about you
The basis for your application (5 years, 3 years married to a citizen, military service), your name (and any name change you request to take effect at the oath), A-Number, date of birth, and Social Security details.
Part 4 — Contact information
Your phone, email, and mailing address.
Parts 5–7 — Residence, marital history, children
Every address for the last five years, your complete marital history including your spouse's immigration status, and information about all your children.
Part 8 — Employment and schools
Employers and schools for the last five years with dates.
Part 9 — Time outside the United States
Every trip abroad of 24 hours or more in the last five years, with dates and destinations.
Part 12 — Additional information
A long series of yes/no questions on moral character, taxes, criminal history, prior immigration proceedings, and attachment to the Constitution. Answer every one and attach explanations.
Parts 13–18 — Signatures and oath
Your signature, the interpreter's and preparer's information if applicable, and the oath language you'll complete at the interview and ceremony.
Form N-400 — frequently asked questions
How long must I be a permanent resident before applying?+
Generally five years, or three years if you've been married to and living with the same U.S. citizen for that entire period. You may file up to 90 days early.
Do I have to take a test?+
Yes — an English reading, writing and speaking test and a civics test, given orally at your interview. There are exemptions and modified tests based on age and time as a resident, and disability accommodations via Form N-648.
Does travel affect my eligibility?+
Long absences can break 'continuous residence.' A trip of more than six months may disrupt it, and a trip of a year or more generally does. List every trip of 24 hours or more.
Can I change my name through naturalization?+
Yes. If your ceremony is conducted by a court, you can request a name change on the N-400 and it takes legal effect when you naturalize.
Related forms
The blank Form N-400 offered here is the version published by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Official page and instructions .
PDFCure is not a government agency and does not provide tax, legal, or immigration advice. This page is general information — for your specific situation, follow the official instructions or consult a qualified professional. Always download the current edition from the agency before filing. Revision referenced: see the edition date on the USCIS page before filing.