If you are applying for U.S. citizenship through Form N-600, you may be wondering how long it will take before your application is processed. The N-600 processing time can vary depending on many factors. Fortunately, there are ways to make sure that your application is processed in a timely manner.
The entire process can seem overwhelming at first, but understanding the processing time involved can help make the procedure smoother and much more efficient.
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The N-600 form is an application filed with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This application is used to apply for a Certificate of Citizenship, which provides legal proof that you are a U.S. citizen.
A Citizenship Certificate can be used as evidence for certain rights and privileges—such as eligibility for a U.S. passport. It can also be used in certain cases as evidence in court proceedings regarding immigration matters or other legal proceedings involving your status as a U.S. citizen.
You may be eligible to file the N-600 form if you meet one of the following criteria:
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When filing Form N-600, you have two options:
The easiest way to file Form N-600 is through the USCIS website.
Create an online account on the website and fill out all sections of the application with as much detail as possible. You will also be required to upload digital copies of your supporting documents during this process. Once you have completed all sections, double-check everything before submitting.
Filing your Form N-600 online will allow you to:
Our immigration attorneys or any accredited representatives may create your online account, allowing us to manage our client’s application in a single place.
Note: You can’t file online if you are applying for a fee waiver or from outside the U.S. A veteran or member of any U.S. military branch filing on your own behalf can’t also file Form N-600 online. Please check how to file by mail.
If you can’t file online or prefer to submit a paper application form, you will need to file your Form N-600 through regular mail. Send your application with all necessary documents enclosed to the USCIS field office using the listed mailing address listed on their website. You may also need to submit additional forms depending on your circumstances.
Once your application has been submitted, you will receive a USCIS Account Acceptance Notice through the mail. This includes instructions for creating your online account to manage and track your case. Remember that even if you don’t create an online account, USCIS will process your application. They will also send you copies of notifications about your case by mail. But creating and accessing an online account is highly recommended.
The average N-600 processing time is six months to over a year, depending on your chosen USCIS Service Center. You can check your case processing time here – check your receipt notice to find your form, category, and the office processing your case.
In general, applications for citizenship through naturalization (Form N-400) tend to take longer than applications for certificates of citizenship (Form N-600).
The fee for filing Form N-600 is $1,170. (No filing fee if you are a member or veteran of the armed forces of the U.S., provided that you present proof of service.)
You can pay this fee with:
Note: If you choose to pay by check, make it payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Once you send your payment, you agree to pay for government service. Biometric service and filing fees are non-refundable, regardless of any action the USCIS may take on your application or if you withdraw it.
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Here are things you can do to ensure that your application is processed quickly and correctly:
With these tips, you can ensure that there will be no delays in processing due to incomplete paperwork.
While waiting on approval of your Form N-600, do not engage in any activity that could jeopardize or delay the approval of your application. These include committing a crime or traveling outside the United States without permission from USCIS.
Important Note: If anything changes regarding the information you provided on your application (for example, if you get married), inform USCIS right away. And provide them with supporting documentation. That way, they can update their records and adjust their processing time.
Applying for U.S. citizenship through the N-600 form involves several steps and waiting periods throughout the process. Knowing exactly how long each step should take may not be enough to ensure everything runs smoothly and efficiently. This is where immigration attorneys can come into play.
Our immigration attorneys here at Hacking Immigration Law, LLC can help ensure you get your Certificate of Citizenship as quickly as possible.
We provide immigration services, and we can assign competent lawyers to assist you with filing Form N-600. We will use our expertise in immigration law to ensure that all forms are filled out properly and completely. We can also provide guidance throughout each step, from completing paperwork correctly to gathering any additional documents needed for evidence.
Ultimately, utilizing an experienced immigration attorney could be one of your most important decisions if you are planning on filing Form N-600. So, whether you need help with your citizenship or lawful permanent resident status, immigration benefits, or anything related to immigration services, we can help you.
