Form N-600: Application for Certificate of Citizenship
The application submitted to obtain official government proof of U.S. citizenship for individuals who acquired citizenship through their parents.
Table of Contents
Who Needs Form N-600?
You file Form N-600 if you were born outside the United States but are already a U.S. citizen because of your parents' citizenship. This is known as "derivative" or "acquired" citizenship. Sponsoring parents or individuals file this form to request an official Certificate of Citizenship from the government.
Note that Form N-600 does not make you a citizen; it only requests a document proving that you already became a citizen automatically under the law.
When Do You File Form N-600?
You can file Form N-600 at any time after you meet the legal requirements for citizenship. Parents can file on behalf of their minor children under 18. Adults who acquired citizenship in childhood can file the application for themselves at any age.
Under the Child Citizenship Act, a child born abroad automatically becomes a U.S. citizen if they are under 18, have at least one U.S. citizen parent, and are living in the U.S. in the legal and physical custody of that parent as a permanent resident.
Where Do You File Form N-600?
You can submit Form N-600 online by creating a USCIS account. Online filing allows you to upload birth certificates, tax transcripts, and pay fees instantly.
If you choose to file by mail, send the physical paper package to the designated USCIS lockbox address for your state of residence.
Filing Fees & Processing Times
Filing Fee: Naturalization certificates require a high base filing fee. Check the official uscis.gov/forms page for current rates as fees change regularly. Some applicants, like adopted children or military members, may qualify for fee exemptions.
Processing Time: Processing is slow, often taking 5 to 12 months. USCIS must review complex birth and custody records to verify citizenship claims.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Filing More Than Once: USCIS allows you to file Form N-600 only once in your lifetime. If your application is denied, you cannot file it again. You must appeal the decision or file a motion to reopen.
- Missing Custody Proof: If parents are divorced, you must provide the legal divorce decree and custody agreements to prove that the U.S. citizen parent has legal custody of the child.
- Filing for Naturalization by Mistake: Do not use Form N-600 if you want to apply for naturalization (Form N-400). Form N-600 is only for those who are already citizens automatically.
What Happens After You File?
USCIS will mail a receipt notice. In some cases, applicants (especially adults) may be scheduled for an interview at a local field office to verify relationship documents.
Once approved, USCIS will schedule an oath ceremony where minor children or adult applicants will take the Oath of Allegiance and receive their physical Certificate of Citizenship.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a U.S. passport and a Certificate of Citizenship?
A U.S. passport is issued by the Department of State for travel and is proof of citizenship. A Certificate of Citizenship is issued by USCIS (Department of Homeland Security) and is a permanent, non-expiring official administrative record of your U.S. status.
Do I need to file Form N-600 if I already have a U.S. passport?
It is not legally required, but it is highly recommended. Some government agencies, financial institutions, and jobs require a Certificate of Citizenship to verify your derivative status, and getting one protects your citizenship proof permanently.
Can an adopted child get a Certificate of Citizenship?
Yes. Adopted children of U.S. citizens can obtain a certificate under the Child Citizenship Act. You will need to file Form N-600 and submit the official adoption decree and proof of legal custody.
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