Apply for U.S. Citizenship
Most people who apply for U.S. citizenship after becoming lawful permanent residents do so through naturalization by filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. CivicNest can help you prepare that form. It does not decide whether you are eligible and does not file with USCIS.
Based on official USCIS sources
CivicNest editorial. CivicNest is not a law firm and is not affiliated with USCIS.
- Form
- N-400
- Edition
- 01/20/25
- Last reviewed
- September 10, 2026
What naturalization means
Naturalization is the process by which a lawful permanent resident becomes a U.S. citizen after meeting statutory requirements. Those requirements are set by federal law and explained by USCIS. They can include residence, physical presence, good moral character, and English and civics knowledge, with exceptions USCIS describes.
This guide does not tell you that you qualify. Only USCIS adjudicates Form N-400.
Where Form N-400 fits
Form N-400 is the application USCIS uses for naturalization in the usual lawful-permanent-resident path. Other forms exist for other citizenship situations, such as Form N-600 for some claims to citizenship. If you are applying through naturalization, N-400 is the form CivicNest currently helps you prepare.
Broad application process
People typically confirm they understand the official eligibility rules, gather supporting documents, complete Form N-400, pay the USCIS fee that applies to them, attend a biometrics appointment if required, and attend an interview that may include English and civics tests. USCIS publishes the current steps and processing information on its website.
CivicNest helps you complete the form through guided questions and a downloadable official PDF. You review the PDF and file with USCIS yourself.
Documents people commonly prepare
A copy of the Green Card, the correct government fee or fee request, and translations of foreign-language documents come up often. Marriage, travel, tax, military, and name-change records are situational. See the N-400 document checklist for a fuller breakdown.
Eligibility and filing are related, but they are not the same
Filing Form N-400 is how you ask USCIS to naturalize you. Completing a well-prepared form does not create eligibility. USCIS decides the case under the law and the record you submit.
Read the official eligibility information before you file. If your situation involves criminal history, long absences, or other complex facts, consider qualified legal help. CivicNest is not a law firm.