I Submitted My Application to USCIS — Now What Happens?
Congratulations! We hope you feel excited about what citizenship can mean for you and your family. However, we understand you may be feeling a bit anxious during this time, too. So, what happens now?
You can anticipate several steps and communications from USCIS. We've compiled a summary with insight about processing times and tips on how you can avoid unnecessary delays.
Timing of USCIS Actions and Notifications
An OPA 1% loan can help with your USCIS application fees. Apply and get approved same day.
The time it takes USCIS to process the N-400 may vary widely from applicant to applicant, and from state to state. Each applicant's individual circumstances have an impact on processing time. The volume of applications in the system also affects the time.
It could take as little as three months and as long as 18 months for USCIS to process your application. You can use the helpful USCIS tool to check processing times by specific processing centers. Keep in mind this time range is for N-400 application processing only. The naturalization and citizenship process can take up to 22 months by the time you take your oath of citizenship.
Naturalization Processing Timeline
The journey to U.S. citizenship, also known as naturalization, is a significant process that involves several steps and varies in duration depending on individual circumstances and application volumes. After submitting the Form N-400 to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), applicants embark on a path that can take anywhere from three to 18 months for the USCIS to process the application alone.
The first step in this timeline is the receipt notice of action, or a "receipt letter," from USCIS, indicating that the application has been accepted for processing. Following this, applicants are scheduled an appointment notice for a biometrics appointment where their photo and fingerprints are taken to verify their identity and conduct a criminal background check.
Once the background check is complete, USCIS will schedule a naturalization interview. During this interview, applicants will also take the English and civics tests unless they qualify for an exemption. The results of the interview and tests are then communicated to the applicant, and based on these results, USCIS will approve, continue, or deny the naturalization application.
Upon approval, the applicant is scheduled to take the Oath of Allegiance, marking the final step in the naturalization process. Immediately following the naturalization oath ceremony, the applicant receives their Certificate of Naturalization and formally becomes a U.S. citizen.
It's important to note that while the N-400 application processing can take up to 18 months, the entire naturalization process, from application to taking the full oath of allegiance ceremony, can take up to 22 months. However, remember that each case is unique, and processing times can vary widely from applicant to applicant and state to state.
To help manage this process, it's recommended to create an online USCIS account. This allows applicants to track their application status, make case inquiries, submit, and stay updated on their progress towards citizenship.
6 Actions and Communications You Can Expect
- You will receive a notice of action, also known as a “receipt letter" or Form I-797, with a receipt number from your USCIS office. This notice indicates that your application has been accepted for processing.
- After your application is accepted, you will receive a notice with a date and time to have your biometrics taken. At your biometrics appointment USCIS will take your photo and fingerprints to verify your identity and conduct a criminal background check.
- USCIS will send you another notice after your background check is complete. This notice will state the date and time of your naturalization interview with a USCIS officer. At this time, you will also take the English and civics tests unless you qualify for a test exemption.
- You will receive results of your interview and tests via Form N-652, or you may find out on the spot after your interview. Based on results, USCIS will approve, continue or deny your application.
- Once approved, USCIS will send you notice N-445 with a date and time to take the Oath of Allegiance.
- Immediately following the oath ceremony, you will receive your Certificate of Naturalization and formally become a US Citizen!
Tips to Avoid Delays
Be sure to attend your biometrics appointment date and naturalization interview on the dates scheduled by USCIS. Avoid rescheduling these appointments unless absolutely necessary. Rescheduling can delay processing by several months.
Also, moving during processing can lead to delays if you don't receive the notices in the mail. You must notify USCIS within 10 days if you change your address.
Form N-400 Processing Times
The Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, is a critical step in the journey towards U.S. citizenship. The processing times for this form can vary significantly based on several factors, including the volume of applications at a given time, the specific processing center handling the application, and the individual circumstances of the applicant.
On average, the processing of Form N-400 can take anywhere from three months to as long as 18 months. This time frame only accounts for the processing of the N-400 form itself. The entire naturalization process, which includes additional steps such as the biometrics appointment, the full naturalization ceremony and interview, and the Oath of Allegiance, can extend up to 22 months.
It's important to note that these timelines are estimates and can fluctuate. Each applicant's case is unique, and processing times can differ widely from one applicant to another. For instance, applicants with complex cases or those applying from regions with high volumes of applications may experience longer processing times.
USCIS provides a helpful online tool that allows applicants to check your n400 status by specific processing center or by USCIS field office. This tool can give a more accurate estimate based on the applicant's location and the current workload of the processing center.
At One Percent for America, we understand that the waiting period can be a time of uncertainty and anxiety. That's why we offer resources and support to help applicants navigate this process, understand what to expect, and stay informed about their application status. We're here to assist you every step of the way on your path to citizenship.
Check Case Status with an Online USCIS Account
It is a good idea to create an online USCIS account. You can do this even if you submitted your N-400 via US mail. An online account provides many benefits. You or your designated representative will be able to:
- Track your application status. Keep your application receipt number where you can find it. You will need to enter this number to access your status.
- Make a case inquiry. Consider using this tool if you haven't received a notice of action or Form I-797 with a receipt number or an update on your status in six months.
You may be nervous while waiting to hear back about your citizenship application. Remember, extended periods of time between USCIS communications may occur. This is not necessarily a sign that there is a problem with your application.
Applications are processed in order of receipt, and each case is different. Your processing time may be different than that of a friend or neighbor. Remain encouraged and hopeful during this time.
Don't forget that 90% of citizenship applications are accepted!
Haven't applied yet? Find out how a 1% loan from OPA can help you apply today. Learn more
How can I check my N-400 application for naturalization?
You can check the status of your N-400 Application for Naturalization by creating an online account with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This online account allows you to track your application status, make case inquiries, and stay updated on your progress towards citizenship. To check your status, you will need your application receipt number, which is provided in the notice of action or "receipt letter" you receive from USCIS after your application has been accepted for processing.
How long is N400 taking?
The processing time for the N-400 Application for Naturalization can vary significantly based on several factors. On average, it can take anywhere from three months to as long as 18 months for USCIS to process the N-400 form. However, the entire naturalization process, which includes additional steps such as the biometrics appointment, the naturalization interview, and the Oath of Allegiance, can extend up to 22 months. It's important to note that these timelines are estimates and can fluctuate based on individual circumstances and the volume of applications at a given time. USCIS provides a helpful online tool that allows applicants to check processing times by specific processing center, giving a more accurate estimate based on the applicant's location and the current workload of the processing center.
