N-400 Processing Time for U.S. Citizenship [Updated]

Start to Finish: How Long the Naturalization Process Really Takes

The naturalization process—filing Form N-400 and becoming a U.S. citizen—generally takes about 6 to 14 months from start to finish. This timeline includes USCIS application review, background checks and biometrics (if required), the citizenship interview and exam, and the final Oath of Allegiance ceremony.

However, there is no single national processing time for Form N-400. USCIS processing times vary widely based on several factors, including:

• Your local USCIS field office
• Your eligibility category (such as applying through marriage or military service)
• The accuracy and completeness of your application
• Whether USCIS needs additional information or conducts further review

USCIS estimates processing times based on how long it took to complete 80% of cases at a specific field office during a recent time period—not on the fastest or slowest cases. As a result, some applicants are approved more quickly, while others may experience longer wait times than the national average.

Becoming a U.S. citizen is a life-changing milestone and often the final step in an immigrant’s journey. This guide walks you through each stage of the Form N-400 process, explains what can affect your processing time, and shows how to avoid common delays—so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.

Quick Reference: Average Timeline at a Glance

These timelines are estimates based on USCIS completion data and may vary significantly by field office and individual case factors.

Below is the complete explanation of timeline and the process for Form N-400.

Step-by-Step Timeline for the Form N-400 Process

The naturalization process follows several key stages, but the exact timing of each step can vary based on your local USCIS field office, your eligibility category, and whether USCIS needs additional review. Below is a realistic, up-to-date overview of what most applicants can expect.

Filing Form N-400

Estimated time: Immediate to 3 weeks after filing

After you submit Form N-400 online or by mail, USCIS will issue a receipt notice (Form I-797C, Notice of Action) confirming that your application has been accepted for processing.

• Online filings often receive a receipt notice within 1–3 days
• Paper filings may take 2–4 weeks to receive a receipt notice

The receipt notice includes your 10-digit receipt number, which allows you to track your case status online throughout the naturalization process.

Biometrics Appointment (If Required)

Estimated time: 3–8 weeks after USCIS receives your application

USCIS may schedule you for a biometrics appointment at a local Application Support Center (ASC) to collect your fingerprints, photograph, and signature. These are used to complete the required background and security checks.

However, not all applicants need a biometrics appointment. In many cases, USCIS is able to reuse previously captured biometrics, which can shorten this stage or eliminate it entirely. If biometrics are reused, USCIS will notify you directly.

If you are scheduled for an appointment, it typically lasts 15–20 minutes. Rescheduling or missing your appointment may delay your case.

USCIS Interview and Citizenship Test

Estimated time: 4–10 months after filing

Once background checks are completed, USCIS will schedule your naturalization interview and citizenship test at a local USCIS field office. You’ll receive an appointment notice (Form I-797C) with the date, time, and location.

During the interview, a USCIS officer will:

• Review your Form N-400 for accuracy
• Verify your eligibility for naturalization
• Test your ability to read, write, and speak basic English (unless exempt). Find the sample citizenship test questions and answers.
• Administer the U.S. civics test

Interview timing varies significantly by field office. Applicants in high-volume metropolitan areas may wait longer than those in smaller offices.

Decision on Your N-400 Application

Estimated time: Same day to up to 120 days after the interview

After your interview, USCIS may issue a decision on the same day or continue reviewing your case.

USCIS has up to 120 days from the interview date to issue a written decision. You will receive the result on Form N-652, Notice of Examination Results, which will indicate whether your application is:

• Approved
• Continued (for additional review, documents, or a retest)
• Denied

If your case is continued, responding promptly to USCIS requests can help avoid further delays. If more information is needed, USCIS may send a Request for Evidence (RFE) or schedule a second interview.

Oath of Allegiance Ceremony

Estimated time: Same day to 2–8 weeks after approval

If your Form N-400 is approved, the final step is attending your Oath of Allegiance ceremony. In some USCIS field offices, applicants may take the oath on the same day as the interview, but this is not available everywhere.

More commonly, USCIS schedules the ceremony within a few weeks after approval and sends Form N-445 with the ceremony details.

You officially become a U.S. citizen only after taking the oath and receiving your Certificate of Naturalization.

Important Note

All timeframes above are estimates, not guarantees. USCIS processing times are based on how long it took to complete 80% of cases and may change due to workload, staffing, or policy updates. Always check your case status and local field office estimates through your USCIS account.

Before submitting, make sure your application is complete. Use our N-400 application checklist to avoid missing any required documents. Check the historical processing timeline for Form N-400 and get an idea.

If there are mistakes or missing information in your application, USCIS may issue a rejection or a request for evidence. These setbacks can increase the cost of applying for U.S. citizenship if you need to resubmit.

USCIS Local Field Office Processing Times For Naturalization

The time it takes to process a citizenship application can vary depending on your local USCIS field office. Use the table below to check the average processing times in your area and plan accordingly. The processing time has been updated in February 2026.

USCIS updates field office processing times regularly. Applicants should always verify current estimates using the USCIS Case Processing Times tool.

Historical Processing Times: N‑400 Naturalization (FY 2014–2025)

Understanding how long it took to process N‑400 applications in the past helps applicants assess whether current wait times are typical or unusually delayed. The median time indicates how long it took for half of the applications to be completed each fiscal year.

Here are the official median processing times (by USCIS) for Form N‑400:

Source: Check USCIS historical processing times for all other forms.

Can You Expedite the N-400 Naturalization Process?

In most cases, the naturalization process follows standard timelines. However, in rare situations, you may request USCIS to expedite your Form N-400 application.

USCIS reviews expedite requests case by case, and approval is not guaranteed. You must provide strong evidence showing why your case should be reviewed ahead of others.

Situations That May Qualify for Expedited Processing

USCIS may consider your request if you face:

• Serious financial hardship that isn’t caused by delays on your part (such as a missed deadline).
• Emergency or urgent humanitarian reasons.
• A nonprofit organization’s request that benefits the cultural or social interests of the U.S.
• Government-related cases, such as matters involving public safety or national interest.
• A clear USCIS error in handling your case.

Keep in mind: Meeting one of these conditions doesn’t guarantee approval. The agency will weigh your request against others in line.

If you think your case qualifies, you can contact USCIS directly or submit an expedited request through your USCIS online account.

Factors That Affect N-400 Processing Time

Several key factors can influence how long it takes USCIS to process your Form N-400 application for naturalization. Understanding these can help you better manage expectations and avoid unnecessary delays.

• USCIS workload: A high volume of applications in your local field office may increase wait times.
• Eligibility category: Certain applicants—like spouses of U.S. citizens—may be eligible for faster processing timelines.
• Application accuracy: Errors or incomplete responses on your N-400 can result in delays or Requests for Evidence (RFEs).
• Requests for additional information: If USCIS needs more documents or clarification, your case may be paused until you respond.
• Background checks: Delays may occur if there are discrepancies in your criminal history or records that require extra investigation.

While delays can be frustrating, understanding these factors helps you stay informed and avoid surprises. If your case is taking longer than the average time posted on the USCIS Case Processing Times page, you can submit a case inquiry for an update.

Tips to Speed Up Your Naturalization Form

Although the naturalization timeline is largely determined by USCIS, there are practical steps you can take to help avoid delays and keep your application moving forward.

• Submit a complete and accurate Form N-400: Double-check your application to ensure there are no errors or missing details that could trigger a Request for Evidence (RFE).
• Respond quickly to USCIS notices: If USCIS asks for additional documents or clarification, reply as soon as possible to prevent processing setbacks.
• Track your case and local field office times: Use USCIS tools to monitor your case status and estimated timelines based on your local field office.
• Request expedited processing (if eligible): While premium processing isn’t offered for Form N-400, you may qualify for expedited handling due to urgent circumstances—such as military service or emergencies. Check the valid USCIS forms for premium processing.

Pro Tip: Staying organized and checking your USCIS account regularly can help you act fast if any issues arise.

FAQs On N-400 Processing Time

Start Your Citizenship Journey with Confidence

Applying for U.S. citizenship through Form N-400 is a major step toward building your future in America. From understanding the process to tracking timelines and avoiding delays, being well-prepared can make a big difference.

At Immigration Direct, we simplify your N-400 filing with step-by-step guidance, helpful tools, and clear explanations—so you can file accurately and confidently. Whether you’re just starting or ready to submit your application, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Don’t wait—start your citizenship application today.