Updated June 2026

Form N-400 Processing Time 2026

Application for Naturalization (US Citizenship)

The N-400 is the application for US citizenship through naturalization for eligible green card holders.

Current processing range

4–12months

N-400 processing includes biometrics, interview, and oath ceremony. The oath ceremony is the final step to becoming a US citizen.

Processing time by service center

Service Center	Receipt Prefix	Typical Range
CSC	WAC	5–12 months	Details →
VSC	EAC	4–9 months	Details →
NSC	LIN	4–9 months	Details →
TSC	SRC	5–12 months	Details →
NBC	MSC	6–12 months	Details →
PSC	IOE	5–10 months	Details →

* Ranges are approximate. Exact times vary by case type, visa category, and current workload. Check egov.uscis.gov/processing-times for your specific case.

How to check your Form N-400 case status

Find your receipt number on Form I-797C (Notice of Action). It starts with 3 letters (WAC, EAC, LIN, SRC, MSC, or IOE) followed by numbers.
Visit my.uscis.gov and enter your receipt number in the case status tool.
Got a confusing status message? Paste it into GreenLight's decoder for a plain-English explanation.
Check the official processing times at egov.uscis.gov/processing-times to see if your case is outside normal time.

Community dataSee how real applicants' Form N-400 wait times compare to the published ranges.Form guideForm N-400 instructions, checklist, and filing tips.

Frequently asked questions

How long does N-400 citizenship take in 2026?+

N-400 processing in 2026 takes roughly 4-12 months from filing to oath ceremony, with a national median of ~6.5 months. The interview typically occurs 3-9 months after filing. The oath ceremony usually happens 1-3 months after the interview.

When can I apply for citizenship?+

Most green card holders can apply 90 days before their 5-year anniversary (3 years if married to a US citizen). You must have been physically present in the US for at least half the required period.

What is the N-400 interview like?+

The officer reviews your application, tests your English (reading/writing), asks civics questions (you must answer 6 of 10 correctly), and verifies your background. The interview typically takes 20-45 minutes.

What happens if I fail the civics test?+

You get a second chance at a follow-up appointment, typically within 60-90 days. If you fail again, USCIS will deny the application and you can refile.

Can I travel while N-400 is pending?+

Yes, with your green card. However, extended absences abroad can affect your continuous residence requirement. Keep trips under 6 months, and total absences under 30 months during the 5-year period.

Related forms

Form I-485 Processing Time →

Got a USCIS status update on your Form N-400? Paste it in and we'll explain what it means in plain English.

Decode your status message →

GreenLight is an independent tool and is NOT affiliated with USCIS, DHS, or any US government agency. Nothing on this page constitutes legal advice. Always verify at my.uscis.gov.