Understanding Form N-600: Applying For A Certificate Of Citizenship
For individuals who were born abroad but acquired U.S. citizenship through their parents, Form N-600 is an important step in obtaining formal recognition of that status. This application allows eligible individuals to request a Certificate of Citizenship, which serves as legal proof of U.S. citizenship.
This post explains who should use Form N-600, what the process involves, and why it matters.
What Is Form N-600?
Form N-600, officially titled Application for Certificate of Citizenship, is used to confirm and document U.S. citizenship for individuals who obtained it automatically through a U.S. citizen parent, either at birth or after birth under specific legal conditions.
It does not grant citizenship, but rather certifies that an individual is already a U.S. citizen by law.
Who Should File Form N-600?
You may be eligible to file Form N-600 if:
- You were born outside the United States and one or both of your parents were U.S. citizens at the time of your birth.
- You are the child of a parent who became a naturalized U.S. citizen and you meet the requirements for derivative citizenship.
- You already have citizenship by operation of law but need an official document to prove it.
This form is often used by:
- Children of U.S. citizens born abroad
- Individuals who automatically derived citizenship after their parent’s naturalization
- Adults who never received a Certificate of Citizenship but need formal documentation
Required Documentation
Along with the completed Form N-600, you must submit supporting evidence. This often includes:
- Your birth certificate
- Your parent’s birth certificate or naturalization certificate
- Proof of your parent’s physical presence in the U.S. (if applicable)
- Documentation of legal and physical custody (in cases involving derivative citizenship)
- Marriage or divorce certificates, if relevant to establishing parentage or custody
Document requirements vary depending on whether you are claiming citizenship by acquisition (at birth) or derivation (after birth).
Filing Fee
The current fee to file Form N-600 is $1,170. Fee waivers may be available based on financial hardship or if the applicant is a minor and meets certain conditions.
Processing Times
Processing typically takes 8 to 15 months, depending on the volume of cases at the USCIS field office handling the application. Applicants with urgent needs may request expedited processing, but it is granted on a case-by-case basis.
Why Apply For A Certificate Of Citizenship?
While a U.S. passport is accepted as proof of citizenship in many cases, a Certificate of Citizenship:
- Provides permanent documentation (no renewal required)
- Can be used in legal, employment, and government settings
- Is an official confirmation of citizenship by USCIS
Having this certificate may simplify matters when applying for government benefits, Social Security, or certain jobs.
Common Pitfalls To Avoid
- Filing Form N-600 when you actually need to naturalize (in which case you should file Form N-400)
- Submitting incomplete or incorrect supporting documents
- Assuming you do not qualify without checking the law in effect at the time of your birth or your parent’s naturalization
- Relying only on a passport without securing the official Certificate of Citizenship
Form N-600 is an essential step for many individuals who are U.S. citizens by law but lack formal documentation. If you believe you may have acquired or derived U.S. citizenship through a parent, obtaining a Certificate of Citizenship provides clarity, security, and peace of mind.
Given the complexity of eligibility rules and documentation requirements, it is highly recommended to consult with our experienced immigration lawyer before filing.
Need Help?
Our team at Bolour / Carl Immigration Group, APC can evaluate your eligibility, gather necessary documentation, and handle the filing process on your behalf. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. www.americanvisas.net