The naturalization process officially begins when you submit Form N-400, the Application for US Citizenship. But yes, I know it actually starts way before that. It begins when you check the requirements, gather documents, and prepare mentally for this big step.
However, the main point is when you submit your application by mail or through your USCIS online account. Now, here’s the thing, your form shouldn’t travel alone. Filling out your information and checking boxes isn’t enough. You must also provide additional evidence to support the details you entered on your N-400 form.
So, how do you know what documents to send? Do all applicants have to submit the same N-400 application documents? Keep reading. Today, we will break down precisely what additional evidence to provide for Form N-400 based on your specific case.
Why is it so important to send additional evidence for the N-400?
Remember this: USCIS doesn’t just take your word for it. They need proof of everything you claim. Think of your N-400 as a formal promise. Without evidence, however, it’s just a promise on paper.
You can’t afford to skip any of these documents. If you submit your application without all the necessary documents, USCIS may delay or even deny your case. So, go through USCIS’s list of required documents and double-check everything before submitting your application.
Keep in mind that not every applicant has to provide the same additional evidence for the N-400. What you need to send depends on your situation and the legal basis of your application. Don’t worry—we’re going to walk you through it so you don’t miss anything.
N-400 Application documents everyone must include
Let’s start with the basics. There are a few N-400 application documents that you must include, no matter which category you’re applying under.
1. Proof of your permanent resident status (Green Card).
- Send a copy of the front and back of your green card, officially called Form I-551.
If your card is lost or damaged, include a copy of your Form I-90 receipt showing that you’ve applied for a replacement.
2. Application fee payment:
Provide proof that you paid the N-400 filing fee and the biometric services fee. Note that the new USCIS fee structure includes both fees in one payment.
You can submit any of the following:
- A personal check with your A-number written on the back
- A money order (with your A-Number written on the back).
- Or, if you paid by credit card, a completed Form G-1450.
If you applied for a fee reduction or waiver, include one of the following forms with supporting documents.
- Form I-942: Request for Reduced Fee
- Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver.
Remember, applicants age 75 or older are exempt from the biometric fee.
3. Proof of identity:
If you live outside the US, provide two passport-style photos (2×2 inches) as additional evidence for Form N-400. Write your full name and A-number on the back of each photo using a pencil—gently so you don’t damage the photo.
What additional evidence to provide for N‑400 in your situation
We’ve covered the basics. But, as you might have guessed, that’s not the complete list of evidence required for Form N-400. Next, we’ll review the documents you need based on your case specifics or the legal category under which you apply.
If you’re married to a US citizen
If you’re applying for naturalization under Option B, you must prove your marriage is legitimate. Here’s the additional evidence to include with your N-400:
- Your marriage certificate
- Proof that you live together, such as joint bank accounts, tax returns, a lease or mortgage, or insurance.
- A copy of your spouse’s proof of US citizenship, such as their naturalization certificate, US passport, or birth certificate.
- If you have been married before, include divorce decrees or death certificates.
- If your spouse works abroad for a qualifying organization, send employment documents, travel orders, and a letter stating that you intend to return to the US together.
If you served in the US military:
You’ll need different documents depending on your military status.
- Form N-426 if you are currently serving.
- DD-214, NGB Form 22, or other discharge documents if you are no longer active.
- You may also need official military orders, if applicable.
- You will also need two passport-style photos if you live outside the US.
Important: If you served during a USCIS-recognized period of hostility, you don’t need to prove physical presence or continuous residence.
If you have a criminal or legal history
If there’s one thing that matters most in this process, it’s honesty. Lying or hiding something will only make things worse. In most cases, USCIS will discover the truth. As I mentioned, they don’t just take your word for it.
You must be fully transparent about your legal history, even if the charges were dropped or you’ve already served your sentence. There’s no point in hiding it because your criminal record will show up at your biometrics appointment. Believe me, it’s worse if they find out on their own.
Depending on your situation, you should provide the following additional evidence with your N-400 form:
If you were arrested but not charged:
- Police report from the arrest
- Official court or agency statement confirming no charges were filed
If you were arrested and charged:
- Arrest reports
- Charging documents
- Court decisions, sentencing, and proof of compliance.
- Any additional evidence that helps explain the context of the case.
If you were convicted or participated in an alternative program (rehab, community service, etc.):
- Sentencing records
- Proof that you completed the program
- If you were given probation or deferred sentencing:
- Sentencing documents
- Proof that you completed your sentence (probation reports, etc.).
If you received a pardon or had your record sealed or expunged, you will need the following:
- A court order showing that the case was expunged, sealed, or vacated.
- Pardon letter (if applicable).
- An official court statement confirming that no record exists.
If you had traffic incidents:
- Only if the incident involved drugs or alcohol, led to an arrest, or caused serious injury.
Important: Criminal history can complicate the naturalization process. It’s best to speak with an immigration lawyer for proper guidance before filing.
You have pending financial obligations
- If you owe court-ordered fines, restitution, or wage garnishments,
- Court Order
- You must prove that you have paid or complied with the payment plan.
If you owe taxes:
- A signed agreement with the IRS or your local/state tax office.
- Proof of ongoing payments
If you pay child support:
- Canceled checks or receipts
- Court or state agency documents.
- A notarized letter from the custodial parent confirming that you are meeting your obligations
If you currently live in the United States:
To apply for citizenship through naturalization, you must have lived in the US for the required time. Applicants are only allowed to live abroad in particular and well-documented situations.
In most cases, you must prove that you haven’t abandoned your permanent residence. You can do so by providing the following N-400 evidence:
- Rent or mortgage receipts
- Pay stubs
- Bank or credit card statements showing regular transactions
- Vehicle insurance and registration records
- Passport stamps showing entries and exits
- IRS tax transcripts.
- Any other documents that prove your physical presence and ties to the US.
If you’re a male between 18 and 26 years old:
As you may know, all males between 18 and 26 must register for Selective Service. Along with your citizenship application, include:
- Selective Service Status Information Letter
- If you did not register, include a written statement explaining why.
If you need legal assistance or a designated representative:
- A court order appointing a legal guardian or substitute
- Evidence of custodial representation (school, hospital, IRS, or Social Security records).
- A notarized letter from family or others confirming the relationship and care
- Documentation of family ties (if the representative is not a legal guardian).
- Form N-648, if you cannot take the oath due to a medical disability.
If you’re applying under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)
If you are a lawful permanent resident applying for naturalization under VAWA, you must include the following documents:
- Proof that your family member is a US citizen (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate).
- Proof of your relationship to that US citizen. Under VAWA, you can apply as a spouse, child, or parent. Acceptable documents include marriage or birth certificates.
- Provide evidence of physical or emotional abuse or mistreatment by your US citizen relative.
Note: You do not need to be currently married or living with a US citizen at the time of application.
Summing up…
As you can see, knowing what additional evidence to provide for your N-400 application depends entirely on your situation. There’s no one-size-fits-all list. However, if you understand your case and gather the right documents, you’ll be one step closer to becoming a US citizen.
Remember, the key is to be honest, organized, and thorough. Double-check your application before submitting it. If you have doubts about the additional evidence needed for the N-400, it’s best to consult an immigration attorney—better safe than sorry.
Finally, don’t stress. This journey can seem overwhelming, especially when you’re just starting. But you’re not alone. We’ve all felt that way at some point, and we made it through. You’ve got this! We’re here to help you every step of the way.
If you have any more questions, please leave a comment below.