Are you a U.S. citizen who was born outside the United States to American parents? If so, you may need Form N-600, known as the “Application for Certificate of Citizenship.” This form helps you prove your U.S. citizenship, even though you were born abroad. The Certificate of Citizenship you receive can be an essential document, especially when applying for a U.S. passport or seeking immigration benefits for your family members.
At Law and Visas, we help guide you through the process of understanding the requirements for filing this form and making sure you don’t miss any critical steps in your citizenship journey.
What is Form N-600?
Form N-600, also called the “Application for Certificate of Citizenship,” is an official government form that you need to fill out if you were born outside the U.S. to American parents and need proof of your U.S. citizenship. This certificate confirms your status as a U.S. citizen even though your birth did not take place on American soil.
The Certificate of Citizenship is important because it serves as an official document proving your citizenship. It’s useful when applying for a U.S. passport, seeking immigration benefits for your spouse or family members, and even for other legal matters where citizenship status is required.
Timeline for N-600 Processing
The processing time for Form N-600 varies and can take anywhere from 4 to 22 months depending on which USCIS Service Center is handling your application. It’s always a good idea to check the current processing times on the official USCIS website to get an accurate estimate.
N-600 Filing Fees
The cost to file Form N-600 is $1385. However, this fee may be waived if you are a U.S. military veteran or active-duty service member. The fee also remains applicable if you’re filing as an adopted child or a child of a veteran or armed forces member.
Eligibility: Who Can File Form N-600?
Form N-600 is for children born outside the U.S. who have U.S. citizen parents. To qualify, the child must:
- Be under the age of 18
- Be living in the U.S. and in the legal and physical custody of a U.S. citizen parent
There are two main ways a child can become eligible for the Certificate of Citizenship:
- Acquisition: If the child is born abroad to at least one U.S. citizen parent.
- Derivation: If the child is a legal permanent resident (green card holder) and obtains U.S. citizenship through their parents.
It’s important to note that you will need to take the Oath of Allegiance when you receive your Certificate of Citizenship.
Who Cannot File Form N-600?
Form N-600 is not for everyone. You cannot file this form if:
- You were born in the U.S.—you can use your U.S. birth certificate as proof of citizenship.
- You have already become a naturalized U.S. citizen—your Certificate of Naturalization serves as proof of citizenship.
- You are living abroad—you should apply for proof of citizenship through the U.S. passport application process.
Important: If you are a green card holder and want to become a U.S. citizen, you should file Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) instead of Form N-600.
Documents You Need to File Form N-600
When applying for Form N-600, you’ll need to submit several documents to prove your citizenship status. These include:
- Two passport-style photos (2 inches by 2 inches)
- The applicant’s birth certificate or other birth records
- Proof of the U.S. citizenship of your parent(s)
- Your parent’s U.S. birth certificate
Additionally, you may be asked to provide other documents, such as:
- Proof of your parent’s U.S. nationality
- Evidence of your parent’s residence or physical presence in the U.S.
- Marriage certificates (if applicable)
- Documents proving the termination of any previous marriages
- Legitimation papers for children born out of wedlock
- Proof of legal custody (if the parent is divorced or separated or if you are adopted)
- Evidence of permanent resident status (if you are a green card holder)
- Adoption records or re-adoption documents
Note that some applicants may be required to attend an in-person interview depending on the details of their case. USCIS will review the submitted evidence and let you know if an interview is necessary.
How to File Form N-600
There are two ways to file Form N-600:
- Online Filing: The easiest and quickest way is to file online. Simply create a USCIS account, follow the instructions, and submit your application digitally.
- Mail Filing: If you prefer, you can fill out the form, sign it, and mail it to USCIS along with all required documents. Make sure to send it to the correct address listed on the USCIS website.
Once your application is submitted, you will receive a 13-character identification number that you can use to track the status of your case on the USCIS Case Status Online page.
Key Takeaways
- Form N-600 is for children born outside the U.S. who need proof of U.S. citizenship.
- The processing time for this form can take anywhere from 4 to 22 months.
- The filing fee is $1385, though it can be waived for U.S. military members.
- You need to provide documents like your birth certificate, proof of your parent’s citizenship, and any relevant adoption or custody papers.
- You can file Form N-600 either online or by mail, depending on your preference.
At Law and Visas, we simplify the immigration process for you, ensuring that you get the right support when applying for a Certificate of Citizenship. If you’re unsure about any steps or need assistance, we’re here to guide you. Let us help you navigate the process so you can focus on the future.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to the US straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a Green Card, Visitor Visa, or Study Visa, we handle every step from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our immigration Consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process and coordinate with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas has a strong record of helping clients secure the visas/permits they need in the US. Call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can assist you.
