Introduction
Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization, is a crucial step on the path to becoming a United States citizen. One of the key sections that applicants must complete is “Part 2. Information About You (Person applying for naturalization).” This section requires you to provide personal details, including your name, any previous names, and the option to request a legal name change. In this article, we’ll delve into the specifics of Part 2 and offer guidance on how to fill it out accurately.
Completing Part 2 of Form N-400
Subsection 1: Your Current Legal Name
One of the initial fields in Part 2 of the N-400 form is dedicated to your current legal name. This is a fundamental piece of information, and it’s vital that you provide it accurately. Here’s what you need to know:
- Explanation of what information to provide: You should list your current legal name without any nicknames or aliases. Ensure that you accurately enter your family name (last name), given name (first name), and middle name (if applicable). Omitting or altering any part of your legal name could lead to complications during the naturalization process.
- The importance of using your legal name: Using your legal name on the N-400 form is critical for various reasons. It helps immigration authorities verify your identity and ensures consistency with other official documents. Inconsistencies in your name could delay your application, so it’s crucial to be accurate and truthful.
Subsection 2: Your Name Exactly As It Appears on Your Permanent Resident Card
The next part of the N-400 form requires you to provide your name exactly as it appears on your Permanent Resident Card (commonly known as the Green Card). This information is essential for alignment with your immigration status. Here’s what you need to consider:
- Explanation of what information to provide: You should enter your name precisely as it is shown on your Green Card. Like in Subsection 1, this includes your family name (last name), given name (first name), and middle name (if applicable). Any discrepancies with your Green Card might raise concerns during the application process.
- The significance of matching this information with your Green Card: Ensuring your name matches your Green Card is crucial because it confirms your legal status in the U.S. Your application may be delayed or denied if the names do not correspond. Therefore, it’s essential to double-check the information on your Green Card before completing this section.
Subsection 3: Other Names You Have Used Since Birth
Part 2 also includes a section where you must list any other names you have used since birth. This involves nicknames, aliases, and even your maiden name if applicable. It’s essential to complete this section honestly and thoroughly.
- Instructions for listing other names: You are required to include all names you have used since birth, such as nicknames, aliases, or your maiden name if applicable. This ensures a comprehensive record of your name history.
- Mentioning maiden names (if applicable): If you are married and have changed your name due to marriage, it’s important to include your maiden name if it’s part of your name history. Providing a complete name history is essential for background checks.
Subsection 4: Name Change (Optional)
Form N-400 also allows applicants the option to request a legal name change during the naturalization process. This part is optional, and it’s important to consider your decision carefully.
- Discussing the option to legally change your name: If you wish to legally change your name as part of the naturalization process, you can indicate “Yes” here. However, it’s crucial to read the Form N-400 Instructions before deciding.
- Providing guidance on how to answer “Yes” or “No: Deciding whether to change your name is a personal choice. If you choose “Yes,” you’ll have space to type or print the new name you’d like to use.
Example Persona from Mexico
To provide a clearer understanding of how Part 2 of the N-400 form is filled out, let’s consider an example persona. Meet Maria González, a fictitious individual from Mexico who is applying for U.S. naturalization.
Maria’s information for Part 2 might look like this:
Subsection 1: Your Current Legal Name:
- Family Name (Last Name): González
- Given Name (First Name): Maria
- Middle Name: (Not Applicable)
Subsection 2: Your Name Exactly As It Appears on Your Permanent Resident Card:
- Family Name (Last Name): González
- Given Name (First Name): Maria
- Middle Name: (Not Not Applicable)
Subsection 3: Other Names You Have Used Since Birth:
- Family Name (Last Name): (Not Applicable)
- Given Name (First Name): (Not Applicable)
- Middle Name: (Not Applicable)
Subsection 4: Name Change (Optional):
- Would you like to legally change your name? Yes
- New Name:
- Family Name (Last Name): García
- Given Name (First Name): Maria
- Middle Name: (Not Applicable)
Filling out these sections accurately is essential for a successful naturalization application. Stay tuned for the upcoming sections of this guide as we delve further into the Form N-400 application process, including where and how to file your application.
IV. Where and How to File Form N-400
Part of successfully completing your Form N-400 is understanding where and how to file it. There are two primary options available to applicants:
A. Filing Your Form N-400 Online
When it comes to submitting your N-400 application, you generally have two options, the first of which is filing online. Here are the key details:
- You must create a USCIS online account to file your Form N-400 online. Having an online account offers several advantages, including the ability to:
- Pay your filing fee online.
- Check the status of your case.
- Receive notifications and case updates.
- View personalized case completion date estimates.
- Respond to requests for evidence.
- Manage your contact information, including updating your address.
- Attorneys and Accredited Representatives: If you have legal representation, your attorney or accredited representative can also create an online account, allowing them to efficiently manage all your applications in one place.
B. Filing Your Form N-400 by Mail
The second option for submitting your Form N-400 is by mail. If you choose to submit your application on paper, here’s what you need to know:
- If you submit Form N-400 on paper, USCIS will mail you a USCIS Account Acceptance Notice. This notice provides you with instructions on how to create an online account to track and manage your case. It’s important to note that USCIS will process your application even if you do not create an online account, but we encourage you to do so.
- USCIS will continue to mail you copies of notifications about your case. This means that even if you choose to file by mail, you can still access important case updates and communications from USCIS. It’s recommended to stay informed about your application’s progress.
- For information on where to mail your paper application, please check the Direct Filing Addresses for Form N-400 page on the USCIS website. Submitting your application to the appropriate direct filing address is essential to avoid processing delays.
Understanding the two filing options available is crucial, and your choice may depend on your specific circ*mstances. Once you’ve determined how you want to file your Form N-400, it’s time to move forward with your naturalization journey.
