N-400, Application for Naturalization
How to fill out the new online Form N-400—the Application for Naturalization. We’ll cover how to create an online USCIS account, choose your eligibility category, fill in your information correctly, and avoid common mistakes that could delay your application.
Make sure to Read this Artical till the end, because I’ll also show you how the new system customizes required evidence based on your answers, and I’ll explain what happens if you want to change your name during the naturalization process.
Let’s get started!
Forms and Document Downloads
Benefits of Filing N-400 Online
- You’ll get a $50 discount off the filing fee.
- The form automatically adapts to your answers, adding or removing sections.
- At the end, USCIS gives you a customized evidence checklist based on your answers—no more guessing what to include!
- It’s easier to organize and upload supporting documents electronically.
Where to File Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization)
When it comes to filing Form N-400, you have two main options with USCIS:
- File online, or
- Submit a paper application by mail.
Filing Online
To file your Form N-400 online, you’ll need to create a USCIS online account. This account not only lets you file your application—it also gives you access to helpful tools, including the ability to:
- Pay your filing fee securely online
- Track your case status in real-time
- Receive instant notifications and updates
- View estimated case completion dates
- Respond to Requests for Evidence (RFEs)
- Update your contact information, including your address
You can choose between two online filing methods:
- Guided filing: A step-by-step process that walks you through completing your form
- PDF upload option: Allows you to upload a completed Form N-400 and supporting evidence in PDF format using your USCIS online account
No matter which online option you use, you’ll get the same access to USCIS case tools like status updates and decision notices.
For Attorneys and Accredited Representatives Legal representatives can also create a USCIS online representative account to manage multiple clients’ cases. However, they can currently file Form N-400 on behalf of clients only through the guided filing method, not the PDF upload option.
Filing with a Reduced Fee or Requesting a Fee Waiver?
If you’re applying for a reduced fee or submitting a fee waiver, you must file a paper Form N-400. Online filing is not available for these types of submissions. Be sure to include the appropriate waiver or reduced fee request form with your paper application.
Filing by Mail
If you prefer to file by mail, no problem! After USCIS receives your paper Form N-400, they’ll send you a USCIS Account Acceptance Notice with details on how to create an online account to track your case.
While it’s optional to create an online account, doing so gives you easier access to updates and notifications. You’ll still receive important case notices by mail either way.
To avoid delays, be sure to send your application to the correct address. Visit our Direct Filing Addresses for Form N-400 page to find out where to mail your form.
Filing Fee for Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization)
To check the current fee for Form N-400, simply visit the USCIS Fee Schedule page.
💳 How to Pay (Paper Filing Only)
If you’re submitting your Form N-400 by mail, you have a few ways to pay:
- Money order
- Personal check
- Cashier’s check
- Credit or debit card — just include Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions
If paying by check, make it payable to “U.S. Department of Homeland Security” (no abbreviations, please).
⚠️ Important Payment Rules
By submitting payment, you’re agreeing to pay for a government service. That means:
- Filing fees are non-refundable, even if your application is denied, rejected, or later withdrawn.
- Credit or debit card payments cannot be disputed once processed.
Need help figuring out your exact fee? Try the USCIS Fee Calculator—a quick and easy way to avoid mistakes.
Submitting Multiple Forms?
Make sure to pay each filing fee separately. USCIS is moving toward fully electronic processing, and your application may go through more than one system. Submitting one combined payment for multiple forms can cause your entire package to be rejected.
This is a big help for applicants facing long processing times—you may not need to file Form I-90 just to renew your Green Card during the wait.
Check out the official USCIS page for more details on this helpful update!
Getting Started Online
- Go to my.uscis.gov and either sign in or create an account.
- Click “File a Form Online”, and select Form N-400.
- Read the eligibility requirements and click “Start Form.”
If you want to test your eligibility first, USCIS provides a tool before the form starts. I have a separate video where I explain how to use the eligibility tool—check the link in the description.
Important Reminders Before You Start
- You cannot file online if you’re requesting a fee waiver—paper filing is required.
- You can save your progress and come back later.
- If you don’t log in for 30 days, USCIS will delete your draft, so be sure to save and update regularly.
Choose Your Eligibility Category
- General eligibility: 5 years as a green card holder.
- Spouse of a U.S. citizen: 3-year eligibility.
- Other special categories like military service.
Let’s select “Spouse of a U.S. citizen” for this example, so I can show you the extra documentation USCIS will request.
Your Personal Information
- Enter your full legal name and list any other names you’ve used.
- You can request a legal name change during naturalization. Just note: your ceremony will be held in court, not a USCIS field office, and may take a bit longer.
Next, provide:
- Your phone number
- Email address (auto-filled from your account)
- Your physical address and mailing address, if different.
Address History
If you’re filing under:
- 5-year rule: provide 5 years of address history.
- 3-year marriage rule: provide 3 years of address history.
Enter each address in reverse order, starting with the one just before your current residence.
Disability Accommodations
- USCIS will ask if you have any disability preventing you from taking the English or civics test.
- If yes, you may need to submit Form N-648 (Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions).
Biographic Information
Enter:
- Date of birth
- Country of birth and citizenship
- Your green card issue date
- Your A-number and Social Security Number
- Choose whether to receive a new or updated Social Security card
Then provide:
- Gender
- Race & ethnicity
- Height, weight, eye & hair color
Employment & Education History
- 3 years of history for marriage-based filers, or 5 years for general applicants.
- Include jobs, schooling, or periods of unemployment.
- The system will alert you if there’s a gap in your timeline.
Travel History
- Include trips longer than 24 hours outside the U.S. in the past 3 or 5 years, depending on your category.
- Travel history must be in reverse order.
- If any trip lasted over 6 months, you’ll need to provide evidence to prove continuous residence.
Marital and Family Information
- If married to a U.S. citizen, provide:
- Spouse’s full name, A-number (if applicable), citizenship status, and naturalization date.
- Your marriage date, and confirmation you live together.
- List children under 18, including stepchildren if your spouse is a U.S. citizen.
- Include names, birth dates, addresses, and whether you provide support.
Moral Character & Legal History
Answer truthfully to questions like:
- Have you claimed to be a U.S. citizen?
- Have you voted in any U.S. elections?
- Do you owe any taxes?
- Have you been arrested, cited, or detained?
Even minor infractions (e.g., traffic tickets) should be explained. If you owe taxes but have a payment plan, explain and upload proof.
Evidence Checklist and Final Review
Once you’ve completed the form:
- USCIS will provide a customized evidence checklist.
- Example: if you traveled outside the U.S. for 6+ months, they may request rent records, job letters, etc.
- If you’re applying based on marriage, they’ll ask for proof of your relationship.
Double-check everything, then click Submit and pay the fee.
That’s it! You’ve now seen how to complete the new online Form N-400 from start to finish. Filing online saves time, helps you stay organized, and gives you a clearer idea of what documents are needed.
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Thanks for watching, and I’ll see you in the next Articals!