Your Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate of Citizenship is more than just a piece of paper. It’s official proof that you’re a US citizen. And yes—you’ll probably need it more often than you think. Whether you’re applying for a US passport, registering to vote, bringing a family member to the US, or handling other legal processes, you’ll be asked to prove you’re a citizen.
The best thing you can do once you receive your Citizenship Certificate is to store it in a safe place where it won’t get damaged or lost. Unfortunately, if you’re reading this, it’s probably because it’s too late and you’ve already lost it. So…
What happens if you lost your US citizenship certificate?
The good news is that you can replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization.
And yes, I said both. As I explained in another article, a Certificate of Citizenship and a Certificate of Naturalization are two different documents. Both prove you are a US citizen, but they are obtained through different processes.
If you want to learn more, check out our blog: Citizenship Naturalization Certificate: What It Is?
Now, back to what matters right now—your lost citizenship certificate...You’ll need to fill out Form N-565, officially called the “Application for Replacement of Naturalization/ Citizenship Document.”
You can use this form if:
- Your original Citizenship Certificate was lost, stolen, or destroyed.
- Your certificate is damaged or falling apart.
- You legally changed your name or gender and want to update it.
- There is a USCIS error on the certificate that is not your fault.
- You need a Special Certificate of Naturalization for a foreign government.
How to get a replacement Citizenship Certificate (Step by step)
The process is the same, no matter your situation. While it might take a little time, it’s not complicated. Let’s walk through the steps to replace your lost, damaged, or outdated Citizenship Certificate.
Step 1: Fill out and submit Form N-565.
You’ll start by submitting Form N-565. You can submit it online through your USCIS account or by mail.
If you file online, you must create an account on MyUSCIS. Once you have an account, you can complete and submit the form online, pay the filing fee, and send the supporting documents. You can also track your case status, respond to requests for evidence, and update your contact information.
What if you prefer to send it by mail?
No problem! Print and sign Form N-565, including your supporting documents and proof of payment. If you’re paying by credit card, also include Form G-1450 to authorize the charge.
Then, mail everything to the correct address based on your delivery method.
If you’re sending it by USPS (regular mail):
USCIS
Attn: N-565
P.O. Box 20050
Phoenix, AZ 85036-0050.
If using FedEx, UPS, or DHL:
USCIS
Attn: N-565 (Box 20050)
2108 E. Elliot Rd.
Tempe, AZ 85284-1806
Step 2: Wait for your USCIS receipt
Once USCIS receives your application, they will mail you a Form I-797C. This form confirms that they received your application. Keep it safe because it includes your receipt number, which you’ll need to track your case online.
Sometimes, USCIS may also send:
- A Request for Evidence (RFE) if they need more documents.
- A biometrics appointment notice, though not in every case.
Step 3: Wait for your new certificate.
Now, it’s time to be patient. The USCIS will take some time to review your case. If everything looks good, they’ll send your new certificate by mail.
It usually takes three to six months to receive a replacement. So, if your Citizenship Certificate is lost or unavailable, the best thing you can do is apply as soon as possible.
How much does it cost to replace a lost US Citizenship Certificate?
Yes, there is a fee for this process. To request a replacement Citizenship or Naturalization Certificate, you’ll need to pay $555 if you submit Form N-565 by mail and $505 if you fill it out online. The payment method depends on how you file the form.
If you file online:
When submitting your application, you can pay with a credit or debit card directly through your MyUSCIS account.
If you file by mail, you have a few payment options.
You can pay with a personal check or bank draft in US dollars, made payable to:
- US Department of Homeland Security
- Cashier’s check
- Money order
- You can also fill out Form G-1450 to authorize payment by credit card.
Important: All USCIS filing fees are non-refundable, even if your request is denied. But, you may not have to pay the fee if you request a replacement due to a USCIS error on your certificate.
You may qualify for a fee waiver if you cannot afford the fee due to low income or receipt of public benefits. Submit Form I-912 with your application to request one.
What documents do you need to replace your Citizenship Certificate?
In addition to Form N-565, you’ll need to send documents that explain why you’re asking for a replacement. These documents will help prove your identity and explain why you need a new certificate.
What you send depends on your situation. Here’s a breakdown:
If your Citizenship Certificate was lost, stolen, or damaged:
- A copy of the damaged certificate (if available)
- A signed statement explaining what happened
- A police report (not required, but recommended if it was stolen).
If you’re correcting a USCIS error:
- The original certificate
- Documents that show the correct information (such as your birth certificate or a court order).
If you changed your name or gender:
- The original certificate
- Legal proof of the change (such as a marriage certificate, court order, or medical documentation).
If you are requesting a Special Certificate of Naturalization, you will need:
- A formal request from the foreign government (if applicable).
- Proof that you are already a US citizen.
If you live outside the US, you must also include two identical passport-style photos.
FAQs:
Can I travel while waiting for my new certificate?
Yes! If you have a valid US passport, you can travel internationally. Your passport is official proof of your citizenship while you wait.
How long does the process take?
On average, receiving a replacement certificate takes three to six months. You can request expedited processing in urgent situations, such as medical emergencies or last-minute travel, but USCIS doesn’t always approve it.
How much does it cost to replace a lost Citizenship Certificate?
The fee for filing Form N-565 is $555 for paper and $505 for online applications. You may also be charged an additional $85 for biometric services, though this does not apply to everyone.
Summing up…
Losing your Citizenship or Naturalization Certificate can be stressful, and I understand that. The good news is that you can request a replacement.
All you need to do is:
- Fill out Form N-565.
- Send it online or by mail.
- Include any required supporting documents.
- Pay the filing fee.
Please keep in mind that USCIS may take a few months to process your application, so apply as soon as possible.