Application for Naturalization
N-400 · Application for Naturalization
How a lawful permanent resident naturalizes and becomes a U.S. citizen.
Median processing days
315 days
about 11 months
Typical range (80%)
180–540 days
Most cases decided within about 1.5 years
Approval rate
90.1%
Trailing 12 months · 2025 Q4
Source: USCIS Processing Times and official quarterly data (2025 Q4 snapshot). For reference only, not a time commitment.
Purpose and process
Typical requirements: 5 years as an LPR (3 years for marriage-based), residency and physical-presence rules, English and civics tests, and a good-moral-character review.
Process: filing → biometrics → interview + test → oath ceremony.
Who files it
Lawful permanent residents who meet the residency and moral-character requirements.
Official references
Common USCIS statuses for this form
Case Was Received
USCIS has received your filing and generated a receipt number. This is only the starting point — active review has not begun yet.
Biometrics Appointment Was Scheduled
USCIS has scheduled your biometrics (fingerprint / photo) appointment.
Interview Was Scheduled
An interview has been scheduled and the notice is being mailed.
Case Was Approved
The case is approved.
Case Was Denied
The case has been denied.
Frequently asked questions
How long after the N-400 interview until the oath?
If you pass and same-day oath is available, it happens that day. Otherwise, the notice usually arrives within 1–3 months.
How long is N-400 processing right now?
The national average is roughly 8–12 months but varies by field office. Los Angeles, New York and San Francisco tend to be slower.
Do I get denied immediately if I fail the interview?
Not necessarily. Officers may give a second chance to retake the English or civics portion. Formal denial only follows a genuine eligibility issue.
Track your N-400 case
Enter your receipt number. MyCases polls USCIS on a schedule and alerts you the moment the status changes — by email, Telegram or WeChat Work. Free forever.
General information only, not legal advice. Official USCIS notices in writing always take precedence.