A Certificate of Citizenship is an official document that proves you are a US citizen, even if you were born outside the country. Issued by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), this certificate serves as a formal recognition of your legal status. But applying for one can be confusing, especially if you’re unsure whether you qualify or what the required documents are.
That’s why we’ve created this Remitly guide to help you understand the US Certificate of Citizenship. We’ll detail the eligibility criteria, how to apply for your certificate, and the costs and fees involved.
Understanding US citizenship evidence
When applying for a US passport or driver’s license, or filling out official government forms, you’re often required to provide documentation that proves your citizenship. Knowing what counts as valid proof will help you avoid delays and make accessing federal and state processes smoother.
Common proofs of US citizenship
Several documents can be used to prove you’re a US citizen, including:
- US birth certificate: Issued by a specific state or territory to confirm birth within the United States.
- US passport: A valid, unexpired passport can serve as proof of citizenship.
- Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-560 or N-561): Issued to individuals who acquire US citizenship through their parents or by following the prescribed legal processes.
- Certificate of Naturalization (Form N-550 or N-570): Granted to those who became US citizens through the naturalization process.
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA or Form FS-240): Confirms citizenship at birth for children born abroad to parents who are US citizens.
These documents are also helpful when applying for your Social Security Number and other services requiring proof of citizenship.
Role of birth certificates
A US birth certificate is a key document for proving citizenship. For most services, you’ll have to provide an original or certified copy issued by the appropriate government agency. The document should include:
- Full name of the holder
- Place and date of birth
- Full names of parent(s)
- Signature of the official custodian of birth records
- Seal of the issuing authority
- Filing date within one year of birth
If a birth certificate is unavailable, you can provide secondary evidence—such as a delayed birth certificate or early public records—to prove your citizenship.
Importance of a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA)
A CRBA is issued by the US Department of State for children born outside the country to parents who meet the legal requirements to pass on their citizenship. Holders can use it to get an American passport, enroll in local schools, and handle official matters.
To obtain a CRBA, parents may need to apply at the nearest US Embassy or Consulate before the child turns 18. The application requires proof of the parents’ citizenship and time spent living in the US before the child was born.
Applying for a Certificate of Citizenship
The government requires you to meet specific eligibility requirements to apply for a US Certificate of Citizenship.
Eligibility criteria
You or your child qualify for a Certificate of Citizenship if:
- You were born outside the United States to at least one U.S. citizen parent, which means you gained citizenship at birth.
- You were formally recognized as a US citizen before turning 18 through acquiring a birth certificate or CRBA.
- You were lawfully admitted to America as a permanent resident, previously referred to as a “lawful permanent resident alien”.
- You live in America in the legal and physical custody of your US citizen parent or guardian.
Adopted children are also eligible in certain cases, but stepchildren cannot acquire citizenship through a stepparent.
Required supporting documentation
Before you can start filling out your application, gather these documents to support your claim to US citizenship:
- Your birth certificate
- Proof of at least one parent’s U.S. citizenship, such as a valid passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate
- Your parents’ marriage certificate(s) and documents showing any previous marriages, if applicable
- Your permanent resident card or other proof of lawful permanent resident status
- Evidence that you were in the legal and physical custody of your US citizen parent, such as court orders or school records
- Two passport-style photos
- A duly filled application form
Additional documents may be required depending on individual circumstances.
Introduction to Form N-600
Form N-600 refers to the official application form used to request a Certificate of Citizenship from USCIS. You can file it in two ways: online or by physical mail.
Filing online
Start the process by creating a USCIS online account, which will allow you to:
- Fill out and submit your Form N-600 online
- Upload supporting documents and passport-style photos
- Get real-time case updates and respond to requests for additional evidence
Filing by mail
Mail filing is available if you’re:
- Applying from outside the US
- Requesting a fee waiver
- Filing on your own behalf as a member or veteran of the US military
Step-by-step application process
Whether filing online or by mail, the general steps are as follows:
- Step 1: Complete Form N-600
- Step 2: Upload or mail supporting documents
- Step 3: Submit your application and receive a receipt notice.
- Step 4: Pay the filing fee
- Step 5: Attend a biometric appointment, if required
- Step 6: Wait for a decision. Certificates are usually issued within six to 12 months, but timelines can vary.
Tip: Don’t skip any sections of the Form N-600 or leave out required documents, as this can delay your application. After submitting your application, you can track your case status through the USCIS online account or by using the handy online case tracker tool on the USCIS website.
Costs and fees for Certificate of Citizenship
The USCIS filing fees for Form N-600 are as follows:
- Online filing fee: $1,335 USD
- Paper filing fee: $1,385 USD
These fees apply to general applicants. However, certain individuals may be exempt from paying them:
- Members or veterans of the US Armed Forces: As a current or former member of any branch of the US armed forces applying for yourself, you don’t have to pay the filing fee
- Adopted children: If you’re filing for an individual who is the subject of a final adoption for immigration purposes and meets the definition of a child under the Immigration and Nationality Act, the filing fee is waived
Additional costs for documentation
In addition to the application fee, you may incur additional costs when preparing and submitting the required documents:
- Obtaining certified copies: You may be required to obtain certified copies of documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, or other legal documents. The cost varies by issuing authority.
- Translation services: If any of your documents are in a language other than English, you may need to provide certified English translations. Fees for translation services may depend on the length and complexity of the documents.
- Passport-style photos: The cost of these photos may change based on the service provider, which could include local businesses like photography studios
- Mailing costs: If you choose to file your application by mail, consider the costs associated with postage, especially if you opt for tracking or expedited services
US banks may also charge transaction fees on payments for any of these services. Factor in these additional costs when preparing your application to ensure a smooth and timely submission.
Replacing and updating your certificate
If your Certificate of Citizenship has been lost, damaged, or you need to update personal information, following the correct procedures will ensure you receive a valid replacement.
Process of replacing a certificate
To replace a lost, stolen, damaged, or mutilated Certificate of Citizenship, you may need to file a Form N-565. This is the application form for replacing any citizenship or naturalization document. Completing your application is a simple, three-step process, as follows:
- Complete Form N-565: Accurately fill out the application form, indicating the reason for your request. This could be anything from a lost certificate, name change, or correction of information.
- Gather required documents: Depending on your situation, you may need to provide:
- A copy of the damaged or mutilated certificate, if applicable
- A signed statement explaining the circumstances of the loss or damage
- Legal documents supporting any name or personal information changes, such as court orders or marriage certificates
- Two passport photographs taken within 30 days of filing
- A copy of a government-issued photo ID, including a passport or driver’s license
- Pay the filing fee: Submission fees for Form N-565 are $505 USD for an online filing, or $555 USD for a paper filing. Fee waivers may be available if you’re filing because your certificate contains incorrect information due to a USCIS error.
- Submit the application: Send in your application online by creating a USCIS account and submitting your application electronically. You could also submit by mail by sending the completed form and supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS address. For paper filings, use the USCIS Phoenix Lockbox address:
- USPS: USCIS, Attn: N-565, P.O. Box 20050, Phoenix, AZ 85036-0050
- Courier services: USCIS, Attn: N-565, (Box 20050), 2108, E.Elliot Rd., Tempe, AZ 85284-1806
- Await processing: After submission, USCIS will process your application. You’ll receive a Receipt Notice (Form I-797C) confirming receipt of your application. Processing times can vary, so it’s advisable to monitor your case status through your USCIS account.
Handling lost or damaged certificates
If your Certificate of Citizenship is lost, stolen, or damaged:
- Report the loss or theft: It’s recommended that you report the loss or theft to local law enforcement to obtain a police report. This can be helpful if your Certificate is misused for fraud or scams.
- Do not use the damaged Certificate: If your Certificate is damaged, do not use it as proof of citizenship. Apply for a replacement as soon as possible.
- Retain a copy of the application: Keep a copy of your Form N-565 application and all supporting documents for your records
When to update your certificate
You may need to apply for an updated Certificate of Citizenship in the following cases:
- Legal name change: If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, official decrees, or a court order, and you wish to have it reflected on your Certificate
- Correcting USCIS errors: If your Certificate contains errors that are the fault of USCIS, such as misspelled names or incorrect dates, you can request a correction
- Gender marker update: If you need to update the gender marker on your Certificate, provide appropriate documentation, such as a court order or medical certification
- Update of personal information: If there are other significant changes to your personal information that need to be reflected on your Certificate
Take the final step
Obtaining or replacing a Certificate of Citizenship is a crucial step in proving your US citizenship status. Whether you’re applying for the first time or updating an existing Certificate, understanding the eligibility criteria, required documentation, and the steps involved can help streamline the process.
Remember, having the right proof of citizenship simplifies interactions with government agencies and ensures that your citizenship is properly recognized.
If you need further assistance or have questions during the process, don’t hesitate to consult USCIS resources or seek legal guidance.
FAQs
What are three acceptable proofs of US citizenship?
Acceptable proofs include a US birth certificate, a valid passport, or a Certificate of Citizenship issued by USCIS for those who acquired citizenship through their parents. It’s advisable to have the original or a certified copy of these documents when required.
What do I need to get a Certificate of Citizenship?
To apply, you need proof of US citizenship, like a parent’s birth certificate, your own birth certificate, proof of lawful permanent residence, such as a Green Card, and a duly completed Form N-600. Be sure to gather all required documents to avoid delays in processing.
Is a Social Security card proof of citizenship?
No, a Social Security card tracks earnings, but doesn’t prove citizenship. Valid proof includes a birth certificate, passport, or Certificate of Citizenship. Always check for the most current acceptable documentation when applying for benefits or services.
What is the difference between a Certificate of Citizenship and Certificate of Naturalization?
A Certificate of Citizenship proves citizenship through parents, especially if born abroad. A Certificate of Naturalization proves citizenship acquired by meeting certain residency and legal requirements. Both documents are crucial in confirming your US citizenship status for legal purposes.
How do I get a third citizenship?
To obtain a third citizenship, you may need to meet the country’s eligibility requirements, which could involve residency, ancestry, or marriage. Ensure your country of choice allows multiple citizenships without renouncing others, as some have restrictions on dual citizenship.