N-400 Document Checklist: What to File and What to Bring
Applying for U.S. citizenship is a major step, and missing paperwork is a common cause of delays or Requests for Evidence (RFEs).
Use this guide to see what most applicants file with Form N‑400, what to bring to the interview, and how to avoid mistakes.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATIONWhy a Checklist Matters
The naturalization process is document‑heavy. USCIS expects proof of your eligibility when you submit Form N‑400.
If something is missing, your case may slow down or you may receive an RFE. Preparing early helps your case move smoothly.
File These With Your N‑400 (Most Applicants)
Here are the documents most applicants should include when filing Form N-400:
- Permanent Resident Card (green card) : clear copies of the front and back.
- Legal name change records if your current name differs from the one on your green card (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).
- Filing fee payment: check, money order, or Form G‑1450 (credit card). Optional: Form G‑1145 for e‑notification of receipt.
- Passport‑style photos only if filing from outside the United States.
- Form N‑648 if requesting a medical disability exception to the English or civics tests.
Additional Documents (If They Apply to You)
Marriage or divorce
- Marriage certificate(s).
- Divorce decree(s), annulment papers, or spouse’s death certificate(s) for any prior marriage.
- Proof of spouse’s U.S. citizenship if applying under the 3‑year marriage rule.
Children
- Birth certificates or adoption records for all children.
- Court orders for custody or child support, if applicable.
Travel outside the U.S.
- All current and expired passports.
- A list of trips (dates, destinations, length of stay). Long absences (6+ months) may need added evidence of continuous residence.
Taxes
- IRS tax transcripts or copies of filed returns for the last 3–5 years, as requested.
- Documentation of payment plans if you owe taxes.
Criminal history
- Certified court dispositions for any arrests, charges, or convictions—even if dismissed
- Police records or proof of completion of sentencing terms, if applicable.
Military service
- Form N‑426 (Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service).
Selective Service (if required)
- Proof of registration or an explanation if you were required to register and did not.
Bring These to Your Naturalization Interview
In addition to the documents you file, USCIS expects you to bring originals or updated copies of certain items to your naturalization interview, including:
- Original Permanent Resident Card.
- Government‑issued photo ID (driver’s license or state ID).
- Original marriage, divorce, or legal name‑change records.
- Original birth certificates or adoption records for children, if applicable.
- Certified court or police records, if applicable.
- Recent tax returns or IRS transcripts, if requested.
- Originals of any documents you filed with your N‑400.
N-400 Document Checklist Table
Translation Requirements
Any document not in English must include a certified translation with a signed statement that the translation is complete and accurate and that the translator is competent in both languages.
Submitting documents without translation can cause delays.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATIONCommon Pitfalls to Avoid
Even with a checklist, applicants often run into issues.
Here are some things to watch for:
- Submitting originals instead of copies: Unless USCIS specifically asks, you should submit copies. Originals are usually reviewed during the interview.
- Missing travel details: Long trips abroad (six months or more) may need additional evidence to show continuous residence.
- Incomplete records for past arrests: Even if charges were dismissed, USCIS typically requires proof of the outcome.
- Not updating personal information: Make sure your application and documents reflect your current name and address.
When to Gather Documents
Start early.
Certified court records, foreign vital records, or IRS transcripts can take weeks.
Preparing ahead reduces last‑minute stress.
Quick Reference N-400 Document Checklist
Here’s a simplified list to keep handy:
File With Your Application
- Green card (front and back copies)
- Name change documents (if any)
- Marriage and divorce records (if any)
- Children’s birth or adoption records (if any)
- Tax returns or transcripts (3–5 years, if applicable)
- Passports and travel history
- Military records (if applicable)
- Criminal records (if applicable)
- Payment and photos (if required)
- Certified translations of non‑English documents
Bring to the Interview
- Green card (original)
- Government photo ID
- Original vital records (marriage, divorce, children’s birth certificates)
- Certified court/police records (if applicable)
- Originals of any documents submitted with your application
How Quijano Law Can Help
Preparing everything in an N-400 document checklist can feel overwhelming, especially if your case involves past travel, family records, or legal complications.
Based in Atlanta, Quijano Law focuses on immigration matters. We review your N‑400 packet, make sure translations meet USCIS standards, and help you prepare for the interview. Our goal is to guide you with clarity and support.
Final Thoughts
The N-400 document checklist is an important tool in preparing for U.S. naturalization.
While USCIS provides official instructions, organizing your paperwork in advance can help you avoid delays.
Everyone’s situation is different, so the exact documents you need may vary.
If you have questions about your eligibility or how to prepare your N-400 checklist, consider speaking with an experienced immigration attorney.
We at Quijano Law, based in Atlanta, Georgia, are happy to help clients navigate the complexities of U.S. immigration law.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATIONFAQs About the N-400 Checklist
Do I need to send originals or copies?
You generally submit copies. Take originals to the interview unless USCIS asks for originals earlier.
What if I can’t find a required document?
In some cases, you may be able to request a replacement or provide alternative evidence, such as affidavits.
Do I need to translate documents?
Yes. Any non‑English document must have a certified English translation.
What documents should I bring to the interview?
Bring originals of the documents you submitted with your N-400, as USCIS may ask to see them.
Can I file without tax transcripts?
You are expected to provide proof of tax filing. If you don’t have transcripts, you can request them from the IRS.
What documents are required for a citizenship application?
At a minimum, you’ll need a copy of both sides of your green card, payment for the filing fee, and proof of any legal name changes. Depending on your situation, you may also need marriage certificates, divorce decrees, tax records, or court documents.
What tax documents do I need for an N-400 interview?
Bring IRS tax transcripts or copies of your last three to five years of tax returns, as requested. If you owe taxes, bring evidence of payment plans or steps you are taking to resolve the debt.
What are three acceptable proofs of U.S. citizenship?
For those proving a spouse’s or parent’s citizenship, common proofs include a U.S. birth certificate, a U.S. passport, or a certificate of naturalization or citizenship.
What are common N-400 application mistakes?
Typical errors include leaving sections of the form blank, forgetting to sign the application, not translating foreign documents, and failing to include required supporting evidence.
What documents do we need for citizenship?
Most applicants need their green card copy, identification, marital or family records if applicable, travel history, tax transcripts, and any relevant court or police records.
Do I need to submit photos with N-400?
Only if you are filing your N-400 from outside the United States. Applicants filing inside the U.S. do not need to submit passport-style photos.
