Form N-600
Application for Certificate of Citizenship
Apply for a Certificate of Citizenship based on U.S. citizenship derived or acquired through a U.S. citizen parent.
Filing fee
$1,385
Processing time
6–14 months
Varies by service center
Online filing
Available
File via my.uscis.gov
Form edition
2024
Only the current edition is accepted
Who files Form N-600?
Individuals born abroad to U.S. citizen parents, or children who became citizens when a parent naturalized.
Where to file
Online via USCIS account, or by mail to the Phoenix Lockbox.
Always verify the current address or online filing option on the official USCIS Form N-600 page before sending — lockbox assignments change.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not meeting residency requirements for the transmitting U.S. citizen parent
- Missing parent's proof of U.S. citizenship
Filing tips
- A U.S. passport can be obtained with the same evidence and is often faster and cheaper
- A Certificate of Citizenship is lifetime proof — useful for retirement planning decades later
Frequently asked questions
What is Form N-600?
Apply for a Certificate of Citizenship based on U.S. citizenship derived or acquired through a U.S. citizen parent.
Who files Form N-600?
Individuals born abroad to U.S. citizen parents, or children who became citizens when a parent naturalized.
How much is the Form N-600 filing fee?
The current filing fee is $1,385. Confirm the current amount on USCIS.gov before filing — fees changed most recently in the 2024 USCIS fee rule.
How long does Form N-600 take to process?
USCIS currently reports 6 months to 14 months for most cases. Processing times vary by service center and workload. Check the USCIS Case Processing Times tool for the latest estimates.
Can I file Form N-600 online?
Yes. Form N-600 can be filed online through a free USCIS account at my.uscis.gov. Online filing provides faster receipt notices and easier status tracking.
Related forms
Cost deep dive
Looking for a full cost breakdown including biometric fees, fee waivers, and payment methods? See the Form N-600 cost page.
Sources & Citations
All claims in this guide link to primary government sources.
- 1
- 2USCIS Case Processing Times— USCIS
- 3
Not legal advice. This page is a plain-English summary for educational use. Current fees, processing times, and filing locations are controlled by USCIS and may change without notice. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney.