How long is the U.S. Naturalization Process?

On average, the U.S. naturalization process takes 8 months in 2026. This timeframe can vary based on the workload of your local USCIS field office and the accuracy of your Form N-400.

Generally, the process takes between 6 and 12 months to complete. Submitting a perfect application without errors is the most important factor in avoiding unnecessary Requests for Evidence (RFEs).

In this updated guide, we break down the timeline step by step based on real-world applicant data and USCIS efficiency reports.

We update these metrics monthly to provide the most accurate estimate available.

Quick resume: Stages of the naturalization process

• Step 1: Submitting your Application for Naturalization (Form N-400)
• Step 2: Attending your biometrics appointment
• Step 3: Attending your citizenship interview and exam
• Step 4: Receiving your application decision
• Step 5: Receiving Form N-445 (Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony)
• Step 6: Taking the Oath of Allegiance

How long does the U.S. naturalization process take?

On average, the process takes about 8 months. However, this time varies greatly depending on the office where you file your application.

Some states and cities receive more applications than others, resulting in a higher workload and longer processing times.

For instance, processing times in Chicago are currently shorter than those in the Miami USCIS office.

To find out exactly how long the process takes in your city, check the USCIS website, which provides estimated processing times for all field offices.

Generally, you can expect the entire process to range from six months to one year from when you file Form N-400 until you receive your naturalization certificate.

U.S. naturalization process timeline: From application to oath of allegiance

Process Stage	Estimated Duration (Days)	Estimated Duration (Months)
N-400 Filing to Biometrics	22 Days	0.7 Months
Biometrics to Interview/Exam	150 Days	5 Months
Interview to N-445 Notification	45 Days	1.5 Months
Receiving Interview Decision	0–120 Days	0–4 Months
N-445 Receipt to Oath Ceremony	25 Days	0.8 Months
Total Time (National Average)	242 Days	8 Months

Note: These times are averages based on what real applicants have reported in recent months. We are also assuming a smooth process where everything goes well.

Errors in the application form or missing document requests can considerably affect these times.

The same applies if you fail the citizenship test/interview or miss any of your appointments.

The stages of the U.S. naturalization process

Step 1: Apply for naturalization (Form N-400)

The first official step is to fill out Form N-400. It is crucial to carefully read all citizenship requirements and ensure that you meet each one based on your specific case.

Filling out the form usually takes between 30 and 45 minutes. You can file online through the MyUSCIS portal or print the form and mail it.

I recommend filing online because it is faster and the filing fee is lower. Additionally, you can check your application status directly from your account.

• If you file by mail, it takes USCIS about 2 to 4 weeks to receive your application.
• If you file online, USCIS receives your application immediately.

Important: Ensure you include all required documents when submitting your application. Do not leave any out, as this could delay processing of your application or even result in immediate denial.

Step 2: Attend your biometrics appointment

About 22 days after submitting your application, you will receive Form I-797C. This form will include the date, time, and location of your biometrics appointment.

During this visit, officers will collect your fingerprints, photograph, and signature to verify your identity and conduct a criminal background check.

This appointment usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. However, be prepared to wait longer depending on how many people are scheduled for that day.

Step 3: Attending your citizenship interview and test

About 5 months after submitting your application, you will receive a letter with details about your citizenship interview.

You will typically receive this notice three to 4 weeks before your scheduled interview date.  

The interview and exam usually take between 40 minutes and an hour.

During the interview, a USCIS officer will review your application and the documents you submitted. The officer will also ask you questions about your personal background, your life in the U.S., and your reasons for wanting to become a citizen.

The citizenship test consists of two parts:

• An English test that evaluates your ability to read and write in English.
• A civics test about U.S. history and government. There are two versions of the civics test, depending on when you submitted your N-400 application.
  • If you filed before October 20, 2025, you will take the 2008 version.
  • If you filed after October 20, 2025, you must pass the 2025 version.

The civics test is usually administered in English. However, there are some exceptions that allow you to take it in Spanish or your native language.

Step 4: Receiving a decision on your application

Typically, the officer will inform you of the decision on the day of your interview. However, USCIS has up to 120 days to send you Form N-652 with the official decision.

• Approved: Congratulations! You are now eligible for U.S. citizenship.
• Continued: USCIS needs more information or evidence, or you must retake part of the exam.
• Denied: This means that you do not meet the eligibility requirements for U.S. citizenship. However, if you disagree with the decision, you can appeal it within 30 days of receiving the notice.

If you don’t pass the exam on your first try, don’t worry—you’ll get a second chance. A USCIS officer will schedule a new appointment within 60 to 90 days of your first test.

The best way to avoid failing the test and delaying your citizenship is to prepare with Citizen Now.

Citizen Now provides official questions, practice tests, and interactive study materials that make preparation easy and effective.

You’ll also receive tools to practice your English skills, prepare for your interview, and complete your N-400 form.

Download the Citizen Now app today and prepare with confidence!

Step 5: Receiving your Form N-445

If you pass the exam and interview, you must wait for USCIS to schedule your naturalization ceremony.

Some applicants may be able to take the Oath of Allegiance on the same day as their interview. This can happen if a ceremony is already scheduled for that day and there is available space.

Otherwise, USCIS will mail you Form N-445 (Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony), which includes the date, time, and location of the ceremony.

The form will inform you of what to bring and includes a questionnaire to be completed on the day of the ceremony.

You can expect to receive Form N-445 between 3 weeks and 1.5 months after your interview.

Step 6: Taking the oath of allegiance

The final step in the U.S. naturalization process is the oath of allegiance ceremony.

During this ceremony, you will swear allegiance to the United States and receive your Certificate of Naturalization, officially making you a U.S. citizen.

You will typically be notified one month in advance by Form N-445.

If you cannot attend on the scheduled date, you must notify USCIS in advance and request a reschedule.

You will need a very strong justification for them to accept the change, such as a family emergency.

What’s next?

After taking the Oath of Allegiance and receiving your Certificate of Naturalization, you are a full U.S. citizen. You can then enjoy all the rights and benefits of citizenship.

Although the naturalization process is over, you still have a few tasks to complete:

• Register to vote.
• Update your Social Security record.
• Apply for a U.S. passport.