Reminder: Applicants for U.S. Citizenship Must Now Use Revised N-400

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) revises application and petition forms from time to time. These changes are often tied to new legal and procedural requirements, or efforts to enhance security and/or efficiency. A recent change was made to the application for naturalization (form N-400), which must be used as of May 5, 2014.

New Form Issued in February 2014

When the USCIS issues an updated edition of an existing form, there is usually a grace period during which it is permissible to use either the new form or the prior edition. Once the grace period ends, however, the USCIS rejects cases filed using outdated forms, as is the situation with the N-400, which is used to apply to become a U.S. citizen. The USCIS released the new form on February 4, 2014, bearing a revision date of September 13, 2013. More information on the revised form can be found in the MurthyDotCom NewsBrief, USCIS Releases New Form N-400 (06.Feb.2014).

USCIS Will No Longer Accept Prior Version of N-400

Starting May 5, 2014, applicants for U.S. citizenship are required to use the revised version of the N-400. The updated version has a revision date of September 13, 2013 clearly marked in the bottom, left-hand corner of the form. If an individual attempts to file using the now-outdated version of the form, the USCIS policy is to reject the filing and return it to the applicant.

Get Advice if Needed

The revision date of a form is a simple matter, but it can be easily overlooked. While many people with straightforward naturalization cases are able to apply without substantial legal assistance, it is important to get advice on any matters that are not clear. Similarly, applicants who have had lengthy absences from the United States since becoming permanent residents, any criminal issues, or other factors that may present hurdles during the naturalization process, should speak with an attorney. The Murthy Law Firm provides representation and advice in citizenship cases and is available to help those embarking on this final stage of the immigration process.

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