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Form N-600:
Certificate of Citizenship

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If you were born outside the U.S. and acquired citizenship through a parent, Form N-600 is how you request official proof of that status from USCIS — a Certificate of Citizenship. Santana Residency Law helps clients throughout Miami and across the U.S. determine eligibility and file a complete N-600 application.

This page is for general information only and is not legal advice. Call Santana Residency Law at 305-916-4800 to review your specific eligibility.

Who Should File Form N-600?

You may file Form N-600 if:

  • You were born abroad and are claiming U.S. citizenship at birth through a parent, or
  • You automatically became a U.S. citizen after birth but before turning 18

 

A parent or guardian may file on behalf of a minor child.

Important: Form N-600 is not naturalization. It doesn’t make you a citizen; it’s how you obtain proof of citizenship you already hold. If you’re not yet a citizen and need to become one, naturalization (Form N-400) is the correct process instead.

What a Certificate of Citizenship Is Used For

Once issued, your Certificate of Citizenship can be used to:

  • Apply for a U.S. passport
  • Register to vote in U.S. elections
  • Access other benefits available only to U.S. citizens
How the N-600 Process Works
  1. File Form N-600 — online or by mail.
  2. USCIS reviews your evidence and determines whether you need to appear for an in-person interview (not everyone does).
  3. If approved, USCIS issues your Certificate of Citizenship.
  4. If you’re 14 or older, you’ll typically be scheduled to take the Oath of Allegiance. Applicants under 14 may not need to do this.

 

Eligibility rules can be genuinely complicated and vary by individual circumstances — an experienced immigration attorney can confirm which requirements apply to your case.

Required Documents for Form N-600
  • Birth certificate: original or certified copy, if born abroad
  • Proof of the U.S. citizen parent’s citizenship: birth certificate, passport, naturalization certificate, or Certificate of Citizenship
  • Proof of the parent-child relationship: birth certificate naming the U.S. citizen parent(s), adoption decree, or similar documentation
  • Evidence of the parent’s U.S. residence: tax returns, employment records, or similar proof of physical presence
  • Marriage certificate or divorce decree for the parents, if applicable
  • Two passport-style photos meeting USCIS requirements
  • Application fee (see below)
N-600 Filing Fees
Online
  • Fee: $1,335
Paper
  • Fee: $1,385

Fees change periodically — confirm the current amount on the USCIS fee schedule before filing.

Do you have questions about your immigration case?

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How Santana Residency Law Can Help

Our office helps clients confirm eligibility, gather the correct supporting evidence, and file a complete N-600 application to avoid delays or denial.

Generally, you'll need your birth certificate, proof of your U.S. citizen parent's citizenship, proof of your parent-child relationship, evidence of the parent's U.S. residence, and (if applicable) a marriage certificate or divorce decree for your parents, along with photos and the filing fee.

Processing time varies significantly by USCIS Service Center, with current average ranges spanning roughly 3 to 22 months. Check the USCIS processing-times tool for the most current estimate for your filing location.

Once USCIS receives your application, you'll get a 13-character receipt number. Use it to check your case status on the USCIS Case Status Online page.

You may appeal using Form I-290B, Notice of Appeal or Motion. The deadline is 30 days from the date of the decision — or 33 days if the decision was mailed to you — so it's important to act quickly.

No. Form N-600 only requests proof of citizenship you already hold through a parent. If you're not yet a U.S. citizen, naturalization (Form N-400) is the process for becoming one.

Let’s talk about your immigration case

Our team can help you understand your options and the next steps based on your situation.

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