What should I do after becoming a U.S. citizen?

What should I do first?

Congratulations. Here are the steps U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) points new citizens to after the oath ceremony.

How do I get a U.S. passport?

As a citizen, you can get a U.S. passport from the Department of State. With your Certificate of Naturalization, it's official proof that you're a citizen.

USCIS says you need to send your original Certificate of Naturalization and a photocopy with your passport application. You'll get a passport application in your welcome packet at the ceremony. Applications are also available at most post offices and on travel.state.gov.

If you plan to travel, USCIS suggests leaving enough time between your ceremony and your trip to receive your passport. The Department of State's website explains the forms, fees, and where to apply.

How do I update my Social Security record?

Your Social Security record should show that you're a U.S. citizen. USCIS explains why this matters:

• Jobs. Employers may check your work eligibility through E-Verify, which uses your Social Security number. An outdated record can affect what your employer sees.
• Benefits and services. You'll need your Social Security number for benefits and other government services.

As of November 2026, USCIS says to wait at least 10 days after your ceremony, then contact SSA. Bring your Certificate of Naturalization or your U.S. passport. USCIS mentions Form SS-5, the application for a Social Security card, by mail or in person at a local office. You can reach SSA at 1-800-772-1213.

On Form N-400, you could also ask USCIS to share your information with SSA so it can issue a card or update your status after your oath. Our guide on how to fill out Form N-400 explains that option.

How do I register to vote?

Voting is a right that comes with citizenship. Before you can vote, you need to register.

• At the ceremony. You get a voter registration application after you take the oath.
• Online, by mail, or in person. USCIS points to vote.gov to find out how to register in your state.
• At the motor vehicle office. You can register when you apply for or renew your driver's license.
• Other places. These may include post offices, county election offices, and your state Secretary of State's office.

Each state sets its own rules and deadlines, so check yours on vote.gov before an election. Don't vote before you're a citizen and registered. Voting unlawfully is one of the issues in the citizenship application questions.

Did my children become citizens too?

They may have. USCIS says a child automatically becomes a U.S. citizen when all of these are true, on or after Feb. 27, 2001:

To get proof, you can file Form N-600, Application for Certificate of Citizenship, online. You can also apply for a U.S. passport for your child. Children who live outside the U.S. follow different rules. USCIS's page "I Am the Child of a U.S. Citizen" explains them.

Custody and adoption situations can be complex. If you aren't sure whether your child qualifies, consider talking to a legal professional.

Can I sponsor my relatives?

As a citizen, you may petition for certain relatives to become permanent residents. USCIS says you need to show enough income or assets to support them. Its "Family of U.S. Citizens" page explains which relatives qualify.

What else should I keep in mind?

• Keep your certificate safe. If you lose it, you can replace it with Form N-565. Until the replacement arrives, USCIS says your U.S. passport can serve as proof of citizenship.
• Update your records. If your name or address changed, update your driver's license or state ID.
• Learn about your new role. USCIS's free Citizen's Almanac covers the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.