Certificate of Citizenship (N-600)
What is Form N-600?
Form N-600, officially known as the “Application for Certificate of Citizenship,” is a crucial document for individuals born outside the United States to U.S. citizen parents. It serves as evidence of U.S. citizenship for those who may not have been born on U.S. soil but are still legally recognized as U.S. citizens.
Obtaining a Certificate of Citizenship can be essential for various purposes, including applying for a U.S. passport or seeking immigration benefits for family members. It provides legal proof of citizenship, ensuring you can access the full range of rights and privileges afforded to U.S. citizens.
Who Should File Form N-600?
Form N-600 is designed for children born outside the United States to U.S. citizen parents, whether biological or adoptive. To qualify, the child must be under 18, residing in the U.S., and have the legal and physical custody of their U.S. citizen parent.
The Certificate of Citizenship is issued under two primary categories:
- Acquisition of Citizenship: This applies to children born outside the U.S. to at least one U.S. citizen parent.
- Derivation of Citizenship: This applies to children whose parents are lawful permanent residents (green card holders) and later acquire U.S. citizenship.
In both cases, the Certificate of Citizenship confirms the child’s legal status as a U.S. citizen.
How to Apply for a Certificate of Citizenship
Applying for a Certificate of Citizenship can be done online or by mail. For those who prefer to file online, the process starts by creating an account on the USCIS website and following the step-by-step instructions. Filing online offers a streamlined approach, allowing real-time updates and accessible communication with USCIS.
If filing by mail, you must download and print Form N-600, sign it, and include all the required documents. Send the application to the correct USCIS mailing address to avoid delays. Any missing or incomplete documentation may result in processing delays or requests for additional information.
Required Documents for Form N-600 Application
When submitting your N-600 application, it’s essential to include specific supporting documents to prove your eligibility for a Certificate of Citizenship. The following items are typically required:
● Two 2-inch-by-2-inch passport-style photos
● The applicant’s birth certificate or record
● Proof of the parent’s U.S. citizenship (e.g., U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization)
● The U.S. citizen parent’s birth certificate
Depending on your situation, you may also need to provide:
● Evidence of either parent’s U.S. national status
● Proof of the U.S. citizen parent’s physical presence in the United States
● The U.S. citizen parent’s marriage certificate (if applicable)
● Documentation regarding any previous marriages (if applicable)
● Legal custody and legitimation documents for children born out of wedlock
● Adoption decrees and re-adoption evidence for adopted children
● Proof of all legal name changes
In some cases, USCIS may require applicants to attend an in-person interview. This determination is made based on the evidence submitted with the application.
Once USCIS processes your application, you’ll receive a 13-character identification number, which you can use to track the status of your case online through the USCIS Case Status tool.
Ready to Resolve Your Case? Contact 360 Immigration Law Group Today
At 360 Immigration Law Group, we bring over 30 years of combined experience to help clients navigate complex immigration processes like applying for a Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-600). Our dedicated team offers personalized service, ensuring you understand every step of the process and meet all the legal requirements.
We provide free consultations and can assist you by phone, Zoom, or WhatsApp. Whether you have questions about eligibility, need help with your paperwork, or want guidance on obtaining your Certificate of Citizenship, we are here to support you.
Contact us today at 954.667.3660 to schedule your free consultation and take the next step toward resolving your immigration case.