New Filing Instructions for N-Forms Dealing with Citizenship

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued an update on October 19, 2011 regarding the processing of forms for naturalization to U.S. citizenship and proof of U.S. citizenship. The new filing instructions direct the applicants to file all USCIS N forms at a centralized location. This change is explained for the benefit of MurthyDotCom and MurthyBulletin readers.

Forms Affected

The USCIS has indicated that all N forms used for naturalization and citizenship-related filings will be affected by the new filing instructions. This includes the application to file declaration of intention (Form N-300), the request for a hearing on a decision in naturalization proceedings (Form N-336), the application for certificate of citizenship (Form N-600), and the application for citizenship and issuance of certificate under section 322N-600K. The application for naturalization (Form N-400), which is likely the most familiar to our readers, is already being filed at a lockbox location.

New Filing Instructions in Effect Oct 30, 2011

Since October 14, 2008, under the previously-issued N-400 filing instructions, it was required that Form N-400 be filed at one of two lockbox facilities – Phoenix, Arizona or Lewisville, Texas. All other N-forms are to be filed at designated lockbox locations as of October 30, 2011. The USCIS has indicated that, between October 30, 2011 and December 2, 2011, all filings improperly addressed to local offices will be transferred to the proper location. After December 2, 2011, however, filings received at local offices will be returned to applicants with proper filing instructions.

Conclusion

MurthyDotCom and MurthyBulletin readers are reminded of the importance of double checking the proper filing locations for any USCIS filings being made without the help of an attorney. Filing procedures are subject to change. The USCIS has been designating more types of applications and petitions for direct filing at lockbox facilities. This is meant to result in a more uniform procedure in initial mailroom processing and acceptance of various types of cases. It appears to be a positive development to assure uniform treatment of similar cases, regardless of the geographical location of the applicant or petitioner.

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