Obtaining U. S. citizenship is an essential event when immigrating to the US; however, it is also important to have relevant documents to substantiate that citizenship. Citizenship is usually proven with a citizenship certificate that was acquired, either by birth or by naturalization. To apply to this document, one must be aware of the forms, requirements, and processing times. To some, the process of applying to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is daunting, but with preparation, it can be a lot more manageable.

This blog will guide the applicant through the application process for the certificate of citizenship, the importance of the Form N-600, the documentation they will be required to submit, the problematic areas to watch, and the importance of legal counsel.

What Is a Citizenship Certificate?

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It is a USCIS-issued official document that certifies the U.S. citizenship status of an individual. It is unlike a naturalization certificate, which is given to individuals upon naturalization.

A citizenship certificate is usually required under the following circumstances:

• When citizenship is obtained through parents at birth or after birth (derivative citizenship).

• When someone needs official proof of citizenship to apply for a passport, Social Security benefits, or government employment, they may need to obtain it.

• When replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged citizenship document.

In the absence of this certificate, one might find it tough to prove U.S. citizenship in circumstances where one is unable to produce documents such as a passport or birth certificate.

The Key Form: N-600

The most significant part of the process leading towards the application of a citizenship certificate is via the Form N-600 (Application for Certificate of Citizenship). The form can be found on the USCIS guide website. It must be filled out by individuals who want to prove their citizenship in ways related to their parents (biologically or legally, i.e., adoptive parents).

The instructions attached to the N-600 form should be adequately read because a misplaced entry or lack of information may result in delays.

Who Should Apply with Form N-600?

The certificate is primarily meant for individuals who:

• Were born abroad but acquired U.S. citizenship through at least one U.S. citizen parent.

• Automatically became citizens after birth through their parents’ naturalization.

• Need documentation to confirm citizenship status for legal, educational, or professional purposes.

For U.S.-born citizens, a birth certificate usually serves as sufficient proof of citizenship, so applying for citizenship certificate may not be necessary.

Required Documents for Applying for Citizenship Certificate

Along with Form N-600, applicants must include supporting documents to verify their claim. These typically include:

1. Proof of parents’ U.S. citizenship – such as a U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, or birth certificate.

2. Applicant’s birth certificate – showing the parental relationship.

3. Evidence of legal relationship (if applicable) – adoption decree, custody papers, or legal guardianship documents.

4. Proof of parents’ physical presence in the U.S. – in cases where residency requirements apply.

5. Two passport-style photographs of the applicant.

6. Government-issued photo identification of the applicant.

It is essential to provide originals or certified copies. Submitting incomplete or uncertified documents can result in USCIS issuing a Request for Evidence (RFE), which prolongs the process.

Filing Fee and Submission

As of 2025, the filing fee for Form N-600 is around $1,170. Applicants must verify the exact fee on the USCIS website before submission, as fees can change. The application is submitted either:

• Online via a USCIS account, or

• By mail to the designated USCIS lockbox address.

Fee waivers may be available in some instances based on financial hardship.

Processing Timeline

The processing time for a citizenship certificate varies but typically ranges from 6 to 12 months. However, delays can occur due to:

• High application volume.

• Incomplete forms or missing documents.

• Background check requirements.

• Requests for additional evidence.

Applicants should regularly track their case status online through the USCIS Case Status tool after filing.

Common Challenges Applicants Face

While the process is straightforward on paper, applicants often face hurdles such as:

• Proving parental citizenship: Especially if parents are deceased or lack documentation.

• Complex cases of adoption or guardianship: USCIS may require extensive legal paperwork.

• Lengthy delays: Even with a properly filed application, backlogs can extend waiting periods.

• Misunderstanding eligibility: Some applicants mistakenly file for a certificate when a passport would suffice.

Why Having a Citizenship Certificate Matters

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This document is more than just paperwork—it is official proof of identity and belonging. It can be critical in situations such as:

• Applying for a U.S. passport.

• Enrolling in school or higher education.

• Securing certain government jobs.

• Proving eligibility for Social Security and Medicare benefits.

• Handling immigration-related matters abroad.

Without a certificate, individuals may face difficulties proving citizenship, even if they are legally citizens of the United States.

The Role of an Immigration Lawyer

While many applicants complete the process on their own, those with complicated cases, such as unclear parental records, adoption, or previous denials, benefit greatly from legal assistance. Immigration lawyers ensure that the application is:

• Properly completed.

• Accompanied by all necessary supporting documents.

• Submitted in a way that avoids unnecessary delays.

This guidance helps applicants secure their certificate smoothly and without the stress of handling unexpected legal issues.

Complete the Citizenship Certificate Process Smoothly With Di Martino Law Group

The citizenship certificate application is determined using the N-600 form and other appropriate documents, as well as attention to detail. It is not an easy day's work, but after months of it, there is a prize of long-term security and the status of a U.S. citizen.

It is not always stressful to apply for a citizenship certificate. Our team at Di Martino Law Group will help you complete Form N-600, collect proper evidence, and see the process through to final approval. Call us now and get quality legal advice today.