Obtaining U.S. citizenship is a dream for many immigrants. But beyond the dream, the naturalization process requires preparation and knowledge, especially when it comes to documents.

Both to file Form N-400 and to attend the USCIS interview, you need to gather certain key documents. Here’s what they are and why each one is important.

🔍 Who can apply for citizenship?

Before you start with the documents, remember that not everyone qualifies to naturalize. In general, you should:

• Have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years (or 3 years if you are married to a U.S. citizen).
• Have physically lived in the U.S. for half that time.
• Have good moral character.
• Pass English and civics exams (although there are exemptions in some cases).

If you’re not sure if you qualify, talk to an immigration attorney.

📝 Documents Required When Filing Form N-400

When you submit your application, please include legible copies of:

• ✅ Green Card (front and back).
• 💳 Payment of fees (by personal check, money order, or Form G-1450 if you will be using a card).
• 💍 Marital status: marriage, divorce, annulment, or death certificates, if applicable.
• 🪪 Proof of identity: two passport-style photos.
• ⚖️ Legal history: If you have been arrested, cited, or convicted, include copies of all court records.
• 👨 ✈️ Men between 18 and 26 years of age: proof of registration in the Selective Service.
• 🌎 Proof of continuous residence: If you traveled outside the country for more than 6 months (but less than 1 year), you will need to prove that your U.S. residence was not interrupted (e.g., tax transcripts, rent payments, car insurance, etc.).

📆 Documents to bring to the citizenship interview

On the day of your interview, bring originals and copies translated into English of:

• 📩 Appointment letter sent by USCIS.
• 🟩 Green Card.
• 🪪 Valid state ID (license or ID).
• 🛂 Passports (current and previous).
• ✈️ Records of trips outside the country.
• 💍 Marriage, divorce, or death certificates.
• 🧾 Tax returns (last 5 years, or 3 if you apply for marriage).
• 👨 👩 👧 👦 Proof of dependent support, if applicable.
• 👨 ✈️ Proof of registration with the Selective Service (men).
• ⚖️ Legal or police records, even if they were sealed or expunged.

📌 Note: Copies of these documents should also be included with your initial application if possible.

📌 Key recommendations from the lawyer

1. 📂 Always carry copies and originals.
2. 🗂️ Organize your documents by categories.
3. ❗ Be 100% honest with your legal history. Hiding information can cause denial.
4. 💑 If you are applying for marriage to a citizen, include proof of the actual marriage: shared accounts, photos, leases, children in common, etc.

👩 ⚖️ Do you have doubts about your case?

Every story is different. That’s why we at Eagan Immigration offer a free evaluation to help you prepare safely, thoroughly, and stress-free.

📞 Call us at 202-709-6439 or schedule your appointment online today.