Managing Attorney
When it comes to U.S. citizenship, there are several paths—and more than one form. If you’re trying to figure out whether to file Form N-400 or N-600, you’re not alone. These two forms are both tied to becoming a U.S. citizen, but they’re used for very different reasons. The key is understanding what each form is for and how it fits your situation. In this blog, we’ll explain the difference so you can take the next step with more confidence.
What Is Form N-400?
Form N-400 is the application for naturalization. It’s the most common way people become U.S. citizens after living in the country as lawful permanent residents (green card holders). If you’ve had your green card for several years and meet the basic requirements, this is probably the form you’ll use.
You can apply for naturalization using Form N-400 if:
- You’re at least 18 years old,
- You’ve been a lawful permanent resident for at least 5 years (3 years if married to a U.S. citizen),
- You’ve lived in the U.S. continuously,
- You demonstrate good moral character,
- You pass the English and civics tests, and
- You’re willing to take the Oath of Allegiance.
The N-400 process includes a background check, an interview, and the oath ceremony. Once approved, you become a naturalized U.S. citizen and receive a Certificate of Naturalization.
What Is Form N-600?
Form N-600 is used for something different. It’s not a request to become a citizen—it’s a request to get proof that you already are one. This form is for individuals who acquired or derived U.S. citizenship through their parents.
This applies to people who:
- Were born outside the U.S. to a U.S. citizen parent, or
- Became citizens automatically when their parent naturalized, as long as they were minors living in the U.S. at the time.
In these cases, you don’t need to go through the naturalization process because you’re already a citizen under U.S. law. But you still need proof—and that’s where the N-600 comes in. When your application is approved, you receive a Certificate of Citizenship, which you can use for things like applying for a passport or enrolling in school. Unlike the N-400, there’s no interview, no test, and no oath ceremony because you already have citizenship status.
Key Differences Between N-400 and N-600
While these forms may seem similar, they serve different purposes. Here’s a breakdown to help you tell them apart:
- Why you file
- N-400: To apply for citizenship through naturalization.
- N-600: To request a Certificate of Citizenship when you already have citizenship by law.
- Who files it
- N-400: Green card holders who want to become citizens.
- N-600: Individuals who acquired or derived citizenship from a U.S. citizen parent.
- Your status before filing
- N-400: You’re not yet a citizen.
- N-600: You are already a citizen; you just need documentation.
- What’s required
- N-400: Includes biometrics, an interview, and tests.
- N-600: Usually just paperwork—no test or oath.
- End result
- N-400: You receive a Certificate of Naturalization.
- N-600: You receive a Certificate of Citizenship.
Understanding these differences can save time and avoid delays. Filing the wrong form could lead to frustration, especially if you end up in a process that doesn’t match your actual status.
Which Form Should You Use?
Choosing the right form depends on how your citizenship came to be. If you’ve lived in the U.S. as a permanent resident and want to become a citizen, you’ll likely need Form N-400. On the other hand, if you became a citizen through your parent—either at birth or after their naturalization—then Form N-600 is the better option.
You don’t have to figure it out on your own. These rules can get tricky, especially when dealing with immigration records. We’re here to review your case and help you determine the right path forward.
How We Can Help
At Zepeda Law Firm, we help people across Texas with all types of immigration and citizenship matters. Whether you’re applying for naturalization or looking to confirm citizenship through your parents, we’ll walk you through each step. We’ll help you gather the proper documents and file the correct form. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get the support you deserve.