Certificate of Naturalization: Proof of Citizenship After Naturalizing
A Certificate of Naturalization is a document issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that confirms a person's U.S. citizenship through naturalization. The issuance date marks when citizenship took effect.
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What it shows
According to the USCIS Policy Manual, it records details such as the A-number, full name, photograph, signature, date of birth and former nationality. It also includes a certificate number, a Director's statement that the applicant met the requirements, the issuance date, and the DHS seal.
How it is issued
An applicant files Form N-400 with evidence and the required fee. USCIS generally issues the certificate after an officer approves the application and the applicant takes the Oath of Allegiance. The applicant must also surrender a Permanent Resident Card, though USCIS may waive this if the card was lost or destroyed.
Using it
USCIS says a U.S. passport is official proof of citizenship that you can get in addition to the certificate. To apply, you submit the original certificate and a photocopy. USCIS also says to give the Social Security Administration your citizenship evidence on Form SS-5 and to wait at least 10 days after the ceremony.
Name changes and replacement
The certificate shows the legal name as it appears on the N-400. USCIS issues it in a new name if you present a valid court order or other proof of a legal name change before naturalizing. A lost certificate or a later legal name change can be handled with Form N-565.
Frequently asked questions
Is a Certificate of Naturalization the same as a Certificate of Citizenship?
No. A Certificate of Naturalization records citizenship through naturalization. A Certificate of Citizenship records citizenship acquired at birth or derived after birth.
Can I use a photocopy?
USCIS says it does not prohibit photocopies of certificates when proving citizenship for official purposes such as to the State Department.
What if my name changed after I naturalized?
File Form N-565 with proof of the legal name change, 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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