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Call Us Today

630-392-8101 | 630-392-8101
info@kasturilaw.com

The N-400 form is the Application for Naturalization used by individuals seeking to become U.S. citizens. It is filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) by lawful permanent residents (green card holders) who meet the eligibility requirements for naturalization.

N-400 Form

At Kasturi Law, LLC, our immigration and nationality law attorney and law firm founder, Shobhana Kasturi, has over 27 years of legal experience and a decade of experience representing individuals and families throughout Illinois to bring their immigration journeys to life.

One of the first steps is avoiding common mistakes associated with the application process.

What are the Most Common Mistakes When Completing USCIS Form N-400?

Filing Form N-400 is a crucial step in becoming a U.S. citizen, and even small mistakes can lead to delays, rejections, or denials.

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when filing the N-400 Form:

  • Incorrect or Incomplete Information

Carefully review each form section and ensure that all required fields are completed. If a question does not apply, write “N/A” instead of leaving it blank.

  • Failure to Disclose Criminal History

Disclose all criminal history, no matter how insignificant it may seem. Failing to disclose can be considered fraud or misrepresentation, which could lead to denial of your application.

  • Omitting Travel Details

Keep a detailed record of all trips abroad, including the exact dates and destinations, and ensure they are accurately reported on the N-400.

  • Failure to Meet Continuous Residence and Physical Presence Requirements

Before filing, review the eligibility requirements carefully and ensure that you meet the continuous residence (typically five or three years if married to a U.S. citizen) and physical presence requirements. Calculate your eligibility window accurately. You can generally file the N-400 up to 90 days before meeting the continuous residence requirement, but ensure all other criteria are met.

  • Incorrect Filing Fee or Missing Payments

Verify the current USCIS filing fee for Form N-400 and ensure it is paid in the correct format (check, money order, or credit card form). Include all required payments, including biometrics fees, if applicable.

  • Not Signing the Form

Double-check that all signature fields are signed and dated appropriately before submission.

  • Failure to Submit Required Supporting Documents

Carefully read the instructions and include all required documents with your application.

Commonly required documents include:

  • A copy of your green card (front and back).
  • Marriage certificate (if applying based on marriage to a U.S. citizen).
  • Proof of Selective Service registration (if applicable).
  • Tax returns and proof of income (in some instances).
  • Ignoring Changes in Address

File Form AR-11 (Change of Address) within ten days of moving. Also, update your address with USCIS through your online account if applicable.

  • Skipping or Missing the Biometrics Appointment

Make sure to attend your biometrics appointment at the scheduled time or request a reschedule if necessary.

  • Not Preparing for the Interview

Study for the civics test and practice for the English test in advance. Familiarize yourself with the content of your N-400 form so you can confidently answer questions during the interview.

  • Submitting Without Legal Advice

Consult with an immigration attorney if your case has complicating factors. We can help you avoid mistakes, strengthen your application, and increase your chances of successful naturalization. Careful attention to detail, honesty, and thorough preparation are critical to a successful application.

Contact Our Immigration Attorney Today at Kasturi Law, LLC

Contact our immigration law firm today to schedule a consultation that suits your needs.

Whether you prefer an in-person meeting, a phone call, or a Zoom session, we are here to accommodate you. You can even schedule a consultation directly using our online calendar, choosing between 30-minute or 60-minute timeframes. We value your time and want to ensure that your immigration questions receive the attention they deserve, helping you move forward confidently.