If you’ve recently submitted a naturalization application to become a U.S. citizen, you’re likely eager to know the status of your case. Understanding how to check the status of your naturalization application is an essential step in the process. The good news is that the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides multiple ways to track the progress of your case.
Overview of the Naturalization Process
Before diving into how to check your naturalization application status, it’s helpful to understand the steps involved in the naturalization process.
The process generally includes:
Submitting Form N-400: The first step in becoming a U.S. citizen is submitting Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. This form requests information about your background, including your residency history, criminal record, and other personal details.
Biometrics Appointment: After submitting Form N-400, you will receive an appointment notice to have your fingerprints, photograph, and signature taken. This process is known as biometrics.
Interview and Test: Once your biometrics are processed, you will be scheduled for an interview with a USCIS officer. During this interview, you will be asked questions about your Form N-400 application, and you will take the U.S. naturalization test.
Decision: After your interview, USCIS will either approve, deny, or issue a request for additional information. If approved, you will receive a date for your naturalization ceremony.
Naturalization Ceremony: If your application is approved, you will be scheduled to take the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony.
The entire process can take several months to years, depending on your specific case. Understanding how to check your application status can help you stay informed about each stage of your naturalization journey.
Where to Find Your Case Status
Your naturalization case status is linked to the unique receipt number provided to you by USCIS when they accepted your Form N-400 application. This receipt number is typically found on the I-797 Notice of Action, which is the notice you receive after USCIS receives your application.
The receipt number is 13 characters long and is made up of both letters and numbers. For example, a receipt number might look like this: MSC1234567890.
Keep your receipt number safe, as you’ll need it to track the status of your case.
Methods for Checking Your Case Status
There are several ways to check the status of your naturalization application. Let’s go over the most commonly used methods:
1. Online via the USCIS Website
The easiest and quickest way to check your case status is through the USCIS online case status tool. Here’s how to use it:
Step 1: Go to the USCIS Case Status page.
Step 2: Enter your receipt number in the box provided. Remember to leave out any dashes.
Step 3: Click on the “Check Status” button.
Step 4: Review the case status information provided. The status page will inform you whether your application is in process, if additional information is needed, or if there is any action required on your part.
2. By Phone
You can also check your naturalization application status by calling USCIS’ National Customer Service Center (NCSC) at 1-800-375-5283. The NCSC operates Monday through Friday, during business hours.
When you call, be sure to have your receipt number ready, as you will need to provide this to get specific case information.
3. By Mail
In some cases, USCIS will send you written updates regarding the status of your naturalization application. These updates may come in the form of notices or requests for additional information. If you have not received a notice for a while, you may want to check your mailbox regularly.
4. Using the USCIS My Case Status App
USCIS also offers a mobile application called “USCIS Case Status,” which you can download from the App Store or Google Play. With this app, you can quickly check your case status by entering your receipt number and receiving real-time updates on your phone.
Understanding Your Case Status Updates
Once you’ve checked your naturalization application status, you’ll likely encounter different messages. Here are some common status updates and what they mean:
“Case Was Received”: This status indicates that USCIS has received your Form N-400 and is beginning the processing stage.
“Fingerprint Fee Was Received”: This message means that USCIS has received your biometrics payment or that your biometrics appointment has been scheduled.
“Case Was Updated to Show Fingerprints Were Taken”: After you complete your biometrics appointment, this message will appear to confirm that USCIS has received your fingerprint data.
“Interview Scheduled”: This message indicates that USCIS has scheduled your naturalization interview.
“Decision”: This message tells you that USCIS has made a decision on your case. It may either be an approval or a request for more information.
“Approved”: This status means your naturalization application has been approved, and you will be scheduled for your naturalization ceremony.
“Denied”: This status indicates that your naturalization application has been denied. If this happens, you will receive an explanation for the denial.
“Request for Evidence (RFE)”: If USCIS needs more information or documentation to process your case, they will issue an RFE. You will need to provide the requested documents within a specified period.
What to Do If Your Case Status Hasn’t Changed
If your case status has remained the same for several months, you might feel frustrated or uncertain about the progress of your application. Here are some steps you can take:
Check USCIS Processing Times: Sometimes cases take longer due to USCIS workload or backlogs. Visit the USCIS Processing Times page to check the current processing times for naturalization applications in your service center.
Review Your Mail: Ensure that you have received all requested notices from USCIS. Sometimes, a delay in processing is due to missing information or required documentation.
Contact USCIS: If you have concerns, you can call USCIS or use the online tools to reach out to them. In some cases, a service request may be created, and a USCIS representative will contact you.
Contacting USCIS for More Information
If you are unable to get the information you need through online tools, or if you have questions about your case, you can contact USCIS directly:
By Phone: Call USCIS at 1-800-375-5283. Be sure to have your receipt number ready.
By Email or Online Inquiry: You can submit an inquiry online through the USCIS website if you have been waiting for an extended period and have not received updates.
Infopass Appointment: If you need in-person assistance, you can schedule an appointment with a USCIS officer through the Infopass system. This can be useful if you have a complex issue that requires further explanation.
Final Thoughts
Checking the status of your naturalization application is a straightforward process, thanks to the various tools provided by USCIS. By staying informed and understanding the status updates, you can avoid unnecessary delays and confusion. If you do encounter problems or have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to USCIS for assistance.
The naturalization process may take time, but with patience and the right tools, you can stay on top of your application status every step of the way.
Related topics:
- What Is Immigration Enforcement?
- Is Immigration Law Civil or Criminal?
- How Hard Is It for Immigrants to Become Legal?
