Applying for U.S. citizenship is a major step, but tracking your N-400 status shouldn’t feel confusing or uncertain. Every year, more than 900,000 people apply for naturalization through USCIS Form N-400. However, delays, missing notices, or changing policies can leave applicants unsure about what comes next.
If you’ve already submitted your naturalization application, checking your application status regularly can help you stay informed, respond to requests from the Department of Homeland Security, and avoid missing deadlines.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to check your N-400 status, what each update means, which online tools to use, and how to get live help from the USCIS Contact Center if something seems off.
Where to Check Your N-400 Status?
Once you’ve submitted your naturalization application (Form N-400), the easiest way to check your immigration case status is by using the USCIS online tools available on the official site. These tools are designed to help you track updates without waiting on the phone or visiting an office in person.
To begin, go to the USCIS case status page. You’ll need the 13-character receipt number from your Notice of Action, the letter you received after applying. It usually begins with three letters, such as EAC, LIN, or IOE, and includes ten numbers.
Once entered, the system will show you real-time updates about your case. It’s secure, free, and available to anyone who filed a citizenship and immigration services form, including the N-400. If you create a USCIS account, you can also get alerts and access your full case history.
All of this is backed by the Department of Homeland Security, which oversees immigration services through USCIS. If online access isn’t working, you can still visit your local USCIS office or call the USCIS contact center, but the online method is the fastest and most efficient.
How Long Does N-400 Take in 2025?
Waiting on your naturalization application can feel overwhelming. You’ve submitted your form, gathered documents like your birth certificate, and now you’re watching the calendar. According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the average processing time for the N-400 form in 2025 is around 5 to 6 months for most applicants.
But that’s not always the full story.
Field office location plays a major role. Someone applying in Newark might wait longer than someone in San Antonio. On Reddit, applicants from Los Angeles reported waiting nearly 9 months, while others from Des Moines were scheduled for interviews in just over 3.
To check the average wait time for your area, go to the processing time tool. Just select “Form N-400” and then choose your field office from the drop-down list.
You’ll see two dates: one that shows the time for 80% of cases, and one for 50%. This helps set realistic expectations without second-guessing your immigration application.
And remember, delays don’t always mean a problem. Sometimes, it’s just about how busy the local office is or how many people applied before you.
What Each N-400 Status Update Means (Step-by-Step)?
In FY 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) handled over 589,400 naturalization applications, with a steady rise in online case tracking through the USCIS online tools. Let’s walk through each N-400 status update so you know what’s happening and what (if anything) to do next.
Case Was Received
This means USCIS has accepted your petition and issued a receipt. You’ll see your A-Number and receipt number on the official notice.
🟢 Tip: Log in to your USCIS account and double-check for typos in your name or other characters on the form.
Biometrics Appointment Scheduled
Your fingerprinting appointment is coming up. This helps the Department of Homeland Security verify your identity and run background checks.
🟢 Tip: Bring your appointment letter and a valid passport or government-issued ID, no exceptions.
Interview Scheduled
An officer from the USCIS office will test your eligibility and English/civics knowledge. They’ll also ask about your immigration benefit request.
🟢 Tip: Review your original application carefully, most questions come directly from your form.
Case Is Being Actively Reviewed
USCIS is checking the full file for proof, updates, or possible concerns. This is a standard step and doesn’t mean a problem.
🟢 Tip: Don’t send any documents unless they request it on your case online page.
Oath Ceremony Scheduled
You’ve been approved and are now just one step away from becoming a citizen. The ceremony date will appear soon.
🟢 Tip: Check your status online often — the letter usually follows in the mail within a few days.
Approved (Naturalization Complete)
Congratulations — you’re officially a U.S. citizen. You’ll get a certificate with the Homeland Security seal U.S. on it.
🟢 Tip: Visit the official gov website to apply for a U.S. passport right away.
What to Do If Your Case Is Taking Too Long?
It’s easy to worry when your N-400 application seems stuck, but not all delays mean something is wrong. Most delays are due to backlogs, not problems with your petition or eligibility.
When Delay Is Still Normal
If you recently completed your biometrics or had your interview, it’s common to wait several months. Many applicants check their case online daily and feel anxious, but if you’re still within the posted processing time for your field office, it’s best to stay patient.
🟢 Tip: Keep logging in regularly through USCIS online tools, updates often appear there first, before any physical notice.
When You Can Ask for Help
Once your case falls outside the normal processing time, you can submit a service request on the official government website. You’ll need your A-number, receipt number, and other supporting documents, such as submission dates.
🟢 Tip: Use the “Check Status” tool to confirm your current timeline before sending a request, jumping too early may not help.
Contacting Your Field Office
If you’re getting no responses, you can try calling the USCIS Contact Center or requesting info from your local field office. Be polite and note any exceptions or urgent reasons that might apply.
🟢 Tip: Only call if you’ve waited beyond your field office’s usual time, and always note the log number they give you during the call.
Congressional Help as a Last Resort
Your U.S. senator or representative may be able to inquire on your behalf. This is called a congressional inquiry and works best when your case has been pending without updates for an unusually long time.
🟢 Tip: Be ready to explain your immigration benefit, provide your A-number, and give them written permission to speak with USCIS.
Important Reminders During the Wait
Keep Your Address Updated
If you move while your petition is still processing, tell the USCIS within 10 days. This is legally required. Use the USCIS online tools or call the Contact Center to submit a change. Make sure the update applies to all pending forms, not just the N-400.
Check Your Mail and Email Regularly
Most case updates arrive by mail or email. Don’t rely only on the case online status. If your case shows “Biometrics scheduled” or “Interview letter sent,” you’ll likely receive a letter or email the same day. Missed notices can delay your immigration benefit or even lead to denial.
Prepare Documents Early
Start compiling important records now, such as your birth certificate, passport, proof of continuous residence, and tax returns. In FY 2023, USCIS reported an Oath ceremony backlog despite processing a record number of naturalization applications.
Don’t Miss Your Appointment
Missing your biometrics or interview can cause serious problems with your petition. If you absolutely can’t attend, reschedule through the government website as soon as possible. The system will log your request and update your case accordingly.
Citizenship Delays Are Common—But Action Matters
Waiting on U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for your naturalization decision can feel endless. But not all delays are harmless. Missed mail, backlogs, or a small paperwork issue can hold you back for months.
At The Chidolue Law Firm, we help clients take smart steps before those delays become denials. From tracking N-400 progress to contacting your field office or raising a congressional inquiry, we’re here to push things forward.
📞 Call The Chidolue Law Firm today at:
➡ 407-995-6567
➡ 678-325-1037
💬 For WhatsApp inquiries, contact us at:
➡ 404-333-8751
Let us review your case, flag red flags early, and give you a clear path toward U.S. citizenship. Schedule your private consultation with our immigration team today.
