If you’re a U.S. citizen and your child was born abroad, adopted, or recently qualified for U.S. citizenship through you, but you’re unsure how to prove it, this guide is for you.
In this post, we’ll walk you through exactly how to apply for a Certificate of Citizenship for your child using Form N-600, including eligibility, fees, timelines, and answers to common questions parents ask. Whether you’re dealing with a biological child, an adopted child, or a stepchild, you’ll find clear and simplified information here.
What Is Form N-600 and Does My Child Need a Certificate of Citizenship?
Form N-600 is the application used to request a Certificate of Citizenship from USCIS. If your child automatically became a U.S. citizen through you, but doesn’t have official proof, this form will help you get it.
It’s especially useful in adoption cases, for children born abroad, or when a U.S. passport alone isn’t enough for legal or documentation purposes. This certificate offers the highest level of legal proof, which is critical for future legal, government, or military matters.
Who Is Eligible to Apply for the Certificate Using Form N-600?
You can file Form N-600 if:
- You are a U.S. citizen parent (by birth or naturalization).
- Your child is under 18, living in your custody, and has lawful permanent resident (LPR) status.
- Your child was born abroad but meets the requirements under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) to derive U.S. citizenship.
Children adopted from abroad under the Hague Adoption Convention, and those brought in through IR-3/IR-4 visas, may also qualify. In those cases, USCIS may consider automatic acquisition of citizenship, but you will still need the certificate for documentation.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a Certificate of Citizenship for Your Child
This section will walk you through the whole process of applying for an N-600 for a child:
- Create an Online Account with USCIS: Visit uscis.gov to create an online account. This will allow you to track your application and submit digital evidence easily.
- Complete Form N-600: Download the form or complete it online. You’ll be asked for personal details about the child and the parent(s), their immigration history, and family relationships.
- Gather Supporting Documents
You’ll need:
a. The child’s birth certificate
b. Evidence of the parents’ U.S. citizenship (passport or naturalization certificate)
c. Child’s green card or proof of lawful permanent residence
d. Legal adoption or custody paperwork (if applicable)
e. Marriage or divorce records (if needed to prove custody) - Pay the Filing Fee: The N-600 form fee for children is $1,170 (as of 2025), whether filed online or via mail. There are very limited circumstances where a fee waiver applies, especially for adult intercountry adoptees.
- Submit the Application: File the application either online or by mailing it to the appropriate USCIS Lockbox. You’ll receive a receipt notice and updates on your account.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Certificate of Citizenship in 2025?
On average, the N-600 processing time in 2025 is around 9 to 12 months, though it varies based on your local field office and case complexity. If there are missing documents or issues with custody status, processing may be delayed.
To reduce wait time:
- File online and double-check for missing fields
- Include all original translations (if any)
- Respond promptly to any Request for Evidence (RFE)
Special Scenarios: Adoption, Stepchildren, and Children Born Abroad
1. Certificate of Citizenship for Adopted Child
If your child was adopted from another country and entered the U.S. under an IR-3 or IR-4 visa, they may have already acquired U.S. citizenship. But unless you’ve received a Certificate of Citizenship by mail (automatic for some IR-3 cases), you’ll need to file Form N-600 manually.
2. Can I File N-600 for My Stepchild?
Stepchildren do not automatically derive citizenship through their stepparents unless they are also adopted. You can only file Form N-600 for a stepchild if you have legally adopted them.
3. How to Apply for U.S. Citizenship for a Child Born Abroad
A child born abroad may be a U.S. citizen if at least one parent was a U.S. citizen at the time of birth and meets physical presence requirements in the U.S. You’ll need to prove that with legal documentation and file Form N-600 to get their certificate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for N-600 for a Child
Avoid delays and rejections by steering clear of these common issues:
- Filing for a stepchild without legal adoption
- Using an expired green card as evidence of LPR status
- Submitting translations without certification
- Leaving out documentation of the U.S. parent’s physical presence in the U.S.
If you’re unsure about eligibility, it’s always best to consult with an immigration attorney, or you can visit ImmigrationQuestion.com to ask your questions for free and get your answers in a few hours.
Why It’s Worth Securing a Certificate of Citizenship
Even if your child already holds a U.S. passport, the Certificate of Citizenship remains the highest and most reliable proof of their status. This is especially important in cases of adoption, birth abroad, or when future legal clarity might be needed. It provides peace of mind, ensures no gaps in documentation, and safeguards your child’s rights down the line.
If you’re unsure about any part of the process or simply want professional guidance, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Visit ImmigrationQuestion.com, where experienced attorneys will answer your questions within hours—and even offer free consultations for qualifying cases. In today’s complex immigration system, certainty is your best protection, and ImmigrationQuestion.com can offer you that in just a few hours. Don’t leave your child’s future to chance.
FAQ: About Applying for N-600 for a child
1. Can I apply for N-600 if my child already has a U.S. passport?
Yes. The passport is evidence of citizenship, but the certificate offers stronger legal proof.
2. Can I track my N-600 application?
Yes, through your USCIS online account.
3. Do I need an attorney to file N-600?
It’s not required, but legal advice may help in complex cases.
4. Is the fee refundable if my application is denied?
No. USCIS does not refund filing fees.
5. Can I file N-600 if I’m a naturalized parent?
Yes. Your child can derive citizenship through you if they meet all eligibility requirements.
