Certificate of Citizenship: What It Is and How It Differs From Naturalization
A Certificate of Citizenship is a document from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that records that a person acquired citizenship at birth or derived it after birth. It is different from a Certificate of Naturalization, which USCIS issues to people who became citizens through naturalization.
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Who applies
Form N-600 is the application for a Certificate of Citizenship. USCIS instructions say you may file if you were born outside the United States to a U.S. citizen parent, or if you became a citizen after birth but before turning 18. A parent or legal guardian can file for a minor. Adults who claim citizenship through a U.S. citizen parent may also file. USCIS says filing is not a request to become a citizen. It asks USCIS to issue a certificate that recognizes you became a citizen on a particular date.
As proof
USCIS says either a Certificate of Naturalization or a Certificate of Citizenship can serve as proof of citizenship for naturalized or derivative citizens. The State Department lists a Certificate of Citizenship as primary evidence for a passport application.
Replacement
If a certificate is lost, USCIS says a replacement can be requested with Form N-565. Check the USCIS site for the current process. This page is general information and not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Certificate of Citizenship the same as a naturalization certificate?
No. One records citizenship acquired at birth or derived after birth, and the other records citizenship through naturalization.
Do I need a Certificate of Citizenship to be a citizen?
The N-600 instructions do not say the certificate is required. They describe it as a document that recognizes citizenship.
Can I replace a lost one?
Yes, with Form N-565, according to USCIS.
Sources
US Records is a private company and is not a government agency. Government agencies issue certified records; we help you order them.
Written By
US Records TeamThe US Records Team writes and reviews guides on birth, death, marriage and divorce certificates, using state statutes, agency instructions and court records as sources.
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