Can I File the N-400 (Citizenship) Myself? When You Can and When to See an Attorney

Short answer: often yes. If you have been a green card holder for the required time, have stayed in the U.S., and have a clean record, many people file the N-400 on their own. A short list of situations call for an attorney first, and it is cheaper to find out before you file than after.

Who can usually file alone

• You are 18 or older and have been a lawful permanent resident for 5 years (or 3 years if you are married to and living with a U.S. citizen).
• You have lived in the U.S. continuously during that time. A trip abroad of more than 6 months can raise questions, and a trip of a year or more generally breaks continuity. See the USCIS Policy Manual.
• You have lived for at least 3 months in the state or USCIS district where you file.
• You can handle the English and civics tests, or you qualify for an exception.
• You have no arrests, citations or immigration problems in your history.

See an attorney first if

• You have been arrested or cited, even if the case was dismissed or sealed.
• You were away from the U.S. for 6 months or more at a time.
• You ever claimed to be a U.S. citizen, voted, or failed to file taxes or pay child support.
• You are unsure how you got your green card, or that case had problems.

Many attorneys and nonprofits offer a free or low-cost consultation, and some New York programs are free.

What the free check asks

A few plain questions about your time as a resident, your trips, your record and your language ability. It tells you whether your case looks simple, or which answer means you should talk to an attorney. Your answers stay on your phone.

Practicing for the test? The free US Citizenship Test Coach app lets you rehearse with four practice officers.

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General information, not legal advice. MiVisaGuide is not a law firm and is not affiliated with USCIS. Always check uscis.gov for current rules, fees and form editions.