What documents do I need to apply for citizenship?

What does everyone need to send?

As of November 2026, the Form N-400 page of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has a checklist of documents. For permanent residents, it starts with a copy of both sides of your green card. Most of the rest applies only in certain situations.

You also need three things that are part of filing itself:

• The form. It needs every page and your signature. Our guide on how to fill out Form N-400 covers it.
• The fee, or a request to pay less. See our guide to N-400 fees.
• Two passport-style photos, if you live outside the U.S. Other applicants generally don't send photos, though USCIS says it may ask for them later.

USCIS's checklist is an optional tool and doesn't replace the form's instructions, so read those too. Don't send the checklist with your form.

Should I send copies or originals?

Send clear photocopies, unless the instructions ask for an original. USCIS can ask to see an original at any time and returns it when it no longer needs it.

The instructions say to send your evidence when you file, though USCIS may accept evidence at your interview.

If you file online, you scan or photograph your documents and upload them. USCIS says each file must be readable and no larger than 12MB, generally as a PDF, JPG, or JPEG. While your case is pending, you can also upload more evidence through your account.

What do I need to translate?

Any document with foreign-language text needs a full English translation. The translator must sign a certification that includes:

• A statement that the translation is complete and accurate.
• A statement that they are competent to translate from that language into English.
• Their signature, printed name, and contact details, and the date.

If you file online, upload the original document, the translation, and the translator's certificate for each document.

What extra documents might my situation require?

These are the most common situations in USCIS's checklist and the instructions. If more than one applies to you, you need the documents for each.

What do I need if I'm applying through marriage?

On the 3-year marriage path, you also show your spouse's citizenship and your life together.

If you became a permanent resident as the spouse or intended spouse of a U.S. citizen who abused you, the instructions say the documents about your spouse's citizenship, your marriage, and your life together aren't required. Other family and work situations have their own lists, such as a spouse employed abroad. USCIS's checklist has the details.

What do I need if I've ever been arrested?

The instructions ask for records of incidents anywhere in the world, including old ones and ones removed from your record. You can send photocopies with your application, but you must bring originals or court-certified copies to your interview.

If a record isn't available, USCIS asks for an original or certified confirmation of that from the agency or court. You also can't be approved while you are on probation, on parole, or under a suspended sentence, so USCIS asks for court evidence that it has ended.

Do I need to send my tax returns?

Not in every case. USCIS's materials put this differently:

• The instructions. They say tax transcripts aren't required in every case, and that you should bring them to your interview, especially after a trip of more than 6 months.
• USCIS's Form G-1151 flyer. It says to bring certified tax returns for the last 5 years, or 3 if you are married to a U.S. citizen, and calls them important proof of eligibility.

The IRS can provide copies and transcripts. G-1151 mentions Form 4506-T for ordering them.

Are reference letters required?

No, they're optional. USCIS says that sending at least two letters from people who can speak to your character can help it decide whether to waive a neighborhood investigation.

What do I bring to my interview?

USCIS lists these for the day of your interview:

1. Your appointment notice

   The letter that gives your date, time, and location.

2. Your green card

   Bring the card itself, not a copy.

3. A state-issued ID

   For example, a driver's license.

4. All your passports and travel documents

   Bring valid and expired ones, even if you haven't traveled as a permanent resident. USCIS says leaving them at home could delay your case.

5. Your supporting records

   The instructions require originals or court-certified copies of any court records, and they cover your tax documents, explained above. G-1151 also says to bring copies of your marriage certificate, any divorce or annulment decree or death certificate, and any court decree that changed your name, and that missing them may delay your case. USCIS can also ask for the original of any document at any time.

You may also see an older USCIS list, Form M-477. It's dated 2016, and its payment details are out of date, so rely on the N-400 page and current instructions instead.

What if I lost my green card or it's expiring?

If you lost your card, you generally must still file Form I-90 to replace it, even after you apply for citizenship. USCIS's G-1151 flyer says you can send a copy of your I-90 receipt, or of another entry document, with your application.

As of November 2026, your N-400 receipt notice automatically extends your green card for 2 years from the card's expiration date. USCIS says to show the notice together with your card.