When applying for U.S. citizenship through naturalization, you must submit specific documents to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The required documents can vary depending on your situation. For example, green card holders applying for citizenship based on marriage to a U.S. citizen must provide additional documents like a marriage certificate and their spouse’s U.S. passport. Unsure if you’re eligible? Check your eligibility before starting the process.
Documents are required at various stages of the application process. Below is a breakdown of the necessary documents when submitting your Application for Naturalization (Form N-400) and those needed for your naturalization interview. Additionally, if you’re unsure how to prepare digital copies of your documents, we’ve got you covered. If you’re still gathering your paperwork, don’t worry—you can begin your application while you work on collecting everything!
If the process seems overwhelming, rest assured! We’ll help you through each step, from preparing for the interview to completing additional forms.
Required Documents for Form N-400
The following documents must be included with your Form N-400 when applying for naturalization:
| Document Type | Examples of Acceptable Documents | Who Needs to Submit It |
| Proof of Green Card Status | Copy of your Green Card (Form I-551) | All applicants |
| Application Fee Payment | Personal check, money order, or credit card form (Form G-1450) | All applicants (unless exempt) |
| Proof of Current Marital Status | Marriage certificates, divorce papers, annulment certificates, death certificates, etc. | All applicants who are or were married |
| Proof of Identity | Two passport-style photos (2″ x 2″) | Applicants applying from abroad |
| Proof of Military Service | Form N-426 (Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service) | Applicants applying based on military service |
| Proof of Medical Disability (if applicable) | Form N-648 (Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions) | Applicants seeking test exemptions due to medical conditions |
| Fee Reduction Application (if applicable) | Form I-942 (Request for Reduced Fee) | Applicants requesting reduced fees |
| Fee Waiver Application (if applicable) | Form I-912 (Request for Fee Waiver) | Applicants requesting a fee waiver |
| Request for Representation | Form G-28 (Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative) | Applicants wishing to be represented at their interview |
Required Documents for Naturalization Interview
When attending your naturalization interview, make sure to bring the following documents along with your interview appointment letter:
| Document Type | Examples of Acceptable Documents | Who Needs to Submit It |
| Proof of Green Card Status | Green Card (Form I-551) | All applicants |
| State-issued Identification | State ID or driver’s license | All applicants |
| Travel Records | Passports (current and expired), USCIS-issued travel documents (I-94) | All applicants |
| Proof of Current Marital Status | Marriage certificates, divorce papers, annulment certificates, death certificates, etc. | All applicants who are or were married |
| Proof of Spouse’s U.S. Citizenship (if applicable) | Spouse’s birth certificate, Certificate of Naturalization, or other U.S. citizenship proof | Applicants applying based on marriage to a U.S. citizen |
| Proof of Name Changes (if applicable) | Marriage certificates, divorce papers, court orders, or adoption papers | All applicants who have changed their name |
| Proof of Financial Support (if applicable) | Court orders, checks, or receipts showing child support, alimony, etc. | Applicants with dependents |
| Proof of IRS Tax Payments | Federal tax returns for the past 5 years or proof of tax payment arrangements | All applicants (especially those who have traveled abroad) |
| Proof of Continuous U.S. Residency | Passport stamps, tax returns, rental agreements, or other proof of residence | Applicants who have traveled abroad for more than 6 months |
| Selective Service Registration | Status Information Letter, notarized affidavit (if applicable) | Male applicants who are required to register for Selective Service |
| Police or Court Records (if applicable) | Arrest reports, court orders, or other official documents related to criminal history | Applicants with any arrests or convictions |
Key Notes:
- Make sure to bring original documents when requested for the interview.
- If there have been any changes since submitting your Form N-400 (e.g., name change, marriage), bring updated documents.
- Some documents can be submitted digitally, but it’s often best to bring originals to the interview to avoid delays.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out! We’re here to guide you through each stage of the naturalization process.
