Citizenship ready to file checklist

Part 1. Am I eligible? (check each one)

I am 18 or older.
I have had my green card 5 years, or 3 years and I am married to and living with a U.S. citizen of 3 years.
I am within 90 days of my 5 or 3 year date, or past it. My date: ____________
I have been inside the U.S. at least 30 months of the last 5 years (18 of the last 3).
No trip outside the U.S. lasted 6 months or more.
I have lived in my state at least 3 months.
I can study for the English and civics tests, or I qualify for an exception.

Part 2. Red flags (if you check ANY box, talk to a lawyer first)

I was ever arrested, cited, detained or charged, anywhere, even if dropped or cleared.
I am on probation or parole now.
I was ever in immigration court, deported or ordered removed.
I ever said I was a U.S. citizen, registered to vote, or voted.
There may have been a problem with how I got my green card.
I am a man, lived in the U.S. between 18 and 25, and did not register for Selective Service.
I owe child support, back taxes, or a benefits overpayment.
I was born in or am a citizen of a 2025 travel ban country.

Part 3. My packet

N-400, edition 01/20/25, every question answered, signed
Copy of my green card, front and back
Marriage and divorce papers, if any
Records for any arrest, ticket with alcohol or drugs, fine, taxes owed or child support
Fee: $710 online, $760 paper, $380 reduced (Part 10 and proof), or I-912 and proof for $0
Optional: two reference letters from U.S. citizens who know me, not family
English translations with the translator's signed note
A full copy of everything for me
Fee and mailing address checked on uscis.gov today

Free help: Community Legal Services in East Palo Alto, 650-326-6440. Do not write your A number or Social Security number on this sheet.

From Citizenship Complete Guide. Facts checked October 21, 2026. Free information, not legal or medical advice.

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