Citizenship Application Tips

Posted by Sara Jensen on May 15, 2011 under Immigration Law | Be the First to Comment

Submitting a completed U.S. citizenship application is the first step to becoming a citizen of the United States.

USE THE CORRECT FORM

The form that you need to file to become citizen is Form N 400. This form can be found at a variety fo places including the USCIS website. Read the

guide that comes with the form to make sure you are filling it out correctly.

TAKE THE TEST

There is an eligibility test, either online or in the guide that comes with the form. Take the test to make sure you meet the eligibility requirements to become a US citizen.

DOCUMENTATION

It is very important that prior to starting the application you make sure you have all the required documents. You will need documents that prove you are eligible. These documents include:

* Employment information
* Permanent resident or Alien Registration Card
* Social Security card
* Birth certificate
* Passport

It’s smart to gather all this paperwork before you work on the Form N-400. With everything you need in hand, you’ll be able to concentrate on filling out the form instead of being distracted because you’re worried about where some missing piece of paperwork might be.

FILE FORM N-400

It’s important to realize that any inaccurate information on your application will delay the entire process. Instructions accompany Form N-400, and it’s important to read and follow them very carefully. If you’re unclear about something or you have a question, telephone the USCIS or go online to find one of the immigration forums that offers help.

Tell the truth. Do Not give a false answer regardless of how “innocent” it may seem. Should you give an inaccurate answer and the USCIS find out your application will be rejected and you will be removed from the United States. If you come to a question that you do not know the answer to it is best that you just leave the question blank.

Take your time and don’t hurry your answers. There’s no time limit to fill out the application once you begin. After you’ve finished filling in the form, review everything. Make sure you haven’t made any mistakes, and correct any errors you find. If you find several mistakes, print out a new Form N-400 and start fresh.

MAKE AND KEEP COPIES

Make at least one copy of everything, including your application. Mail your application by certified mail, return receipt requested. The USCIS is infamous for losing people’s paperwork, so retain copies of all your documents and your proof of filing.

CITIZENSHIP ELIGIBILITY

File for citizenship as soon as you are eligible. The fees for immigration and citizenship are always going up. The average fee for filing for each process costing more than $1000 not including the cost of fingerprinting and paperwork it is a good idea to file as soon as you eligible.

Applying for U.S. citizenship is an important step in your life. It’s a long, tedious process that has many details and requirements, and it must be done correctly. Taking your time is essential to getting everything right. If you need additional information, you can always go to the USCIS website.

Sara Jensen is a immigration law researcher and also writes for a San Diego immigration attorney.