You’re ready to claim U.S. citizenship for your child. You’ve gathered documents, done the research, and now it all comes down to one decision- which form do you use: N-600 or N-600K?
It seems like a small difference. But filing the wrong form could mean delays or starting over completely. These two forms serve very different purposes, and knowing which one fits your situation is critical.
In this guide, you’ll get a clear breakdown of what Form N-600K is, how it works, and how it compares to the standard Form N-600. If you’re living abroad or trying to bring your child to the U.S. to finalize citizenship, this could be the guide that saves you time and stress.
What Is Form N-600?
Form N-600 is the application that you file out if your child already qualifies for U.S. citizenship automatically, either at birth or after a parent’s naturalization. In this case, your child is already living in the U.S. It’s how you formally request a Certificate of Citizenship from USCIS.
You’ll have to file this form if your child already meets the conditions of U.S. citizenship under INA Section 320, such as:
- Having at least one U.S. citizen parent
- Living in the U.S. in the legal and physical custody of that parent
- Holding a green card (lawful permanent resident status)
If that’s your situation, the N-600 form is the right fit.
Note: Children of U.S. military or government employees stationed abroad may qualify for citizenship under INA 320, allowing them to acquire citizenship even if they reside outside the United States, provided all other statutory requirements are fulfilled.
What Is Form N-600K?
Form N-600K is designed for a different situation. If you’re a U.S. citizen, but you and your child live outside the U.S., maybe you’re stationed overseas or settled abroad with family, then what you file is the N-600K.
This form will let you apply for U.S. citizenship on behalf of your child under INA Section 322, even if your child lives abroad. However, there’s one big catch: your child must come to the U.S. to complete the process and take the Oath of Allegiance.
Form N-600K offers flexibility if:
- Your child is under 18
- You’re a U.S. citizen living abroad
- Your child will travel to the U.S. temporarily for the interview and oath
N-600K vs. N-600: Key Differences Explained
It’s easy to confuse the two, but a side-by-side comparison of N-600 vs. N-600K will clear everything up. Here’s a breakdown of how these forms differ in purpose, eligibility, and process:
| Criteria | Form N-600 | Form N-600K |
|---|---|---|
| Child’s Residence | Must reside in the U.S. | May reside outside the U.S. |
| Parent’s Residence | Must be in the U.S. | May live abroad |
| Legal Basis | INA Section 320 | INA Section 322 |
| Filing Location | Inside the U.S. | May be filed from abroad |
| Physical Presence Requirement | Already in U.S. | Must travel to the U.S. for the interview/oath |
| Interview Required? | Sometimes | Yes, always |
| Filing Fees | $1,385 (as of August 2025) | $1,385 (as of August 2025) |
| Timeline | 6–12 months | 6–12 months depending on travel |
| Adoption Cases Allowed? | Yes | Yes, if child meets requirements |
Form N-600 is based on automatic acquisition or derivation of citizenship. No need for an oath if the child already qualifies.
Form N-600K grants citizenship through application. You must prove eligibility and follow extra steps, like an in-person oath.
How to File Form N-600
Here’s how to file Form N-600:
- File online through your USCIS account or by mail using the address listed in the USCIS instructions.
- Pay the filing fee of $1,385 for paper filing and $1,335 for online filing (as of August 2025). Fee waivers are available if you qualify based on income or hardship.
- Prepare your documents: You’ll need to submit proof of your U.S. citizenship, your child’s birth certificate, evidence of legal and physical custody, and any adoption or court records if applicable.
- Sign and submit the form: Either you or your child (if over 14) will need to sign.
Once submitted, you’ll receive a receipt notice from USCIS. Some applicants may be scheduled for a biometrics appointment, but interviews are generally rare. If all goes smoothly, your child will receive a Certificate of Citizenship by mail.
How to File Form N-600K
The process involves several important steps:
- File online or by mail with USCIS.
- Pay the filing fee of $1,385 for paper filing and $1,335 for online filing (as of August 2025).
- Gather documentation: parents’ U.S. citizenship proof, child’s birth certificate, evidence of legal custody, etc.
- Prepare for travel: Your child must be present in the U.S. for the interview and oath.
The interview is conducted at a USCIS field office. If all goes well, your child will receive the Certificate of Citizenship that same day or shortly after.
Choosing the Right Path for Your Child
Filing the wrong form can lead to unnecessary delays or rejections. The differences are subtle, but they matter. If you’re unsure whether Form N-600 or N-600K applies to your child, double-check and be sure before taking the next steps.
Here’s what you should keep in mind:
- Use Form N-600 if your child already qualifies for citizenship automatically and lives in the U.S.
- Use Form N-600K if your child lives abroad and you want to apply for their citizenship through INA Section 322 before they turn 18.
If you’re still uncertain which path applies to your situation or you have further questions on immigration, get help. ImmigrationQuestions.com can help connect you with licensed immigration attorneys to answer your questions and offer advice tailored to your family’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the difference between N-600 and N-600K?
Form N-600 is for children who automatically acquired or derived U.S. citizenship and live in the U.S. Form N-600K is for children living abroad whose U.S. citizen parent is applying for citizenship under INA Section 322.
2. Who can file Form N-600K?
Only U.S. citizens filing on behalf of their minor children who live outside the U.S. and meet the INA 322 criteria can file the N-600K.
3. Does my child need to attend an interview for N-600K?
Yes. The child must travel to the U.S. to attend a USCIS interview and take the Oath of Allegiance in person.
4. Can I file Form N-600K from outside the U.S.?
Yes. You can file Form N-600K from abroad, but your child must come to the U.S. for the final steps of the process.
5. Is Form N-600K faster than Form N-600?
Not necessarily. Both forms take about 6–12 months to process, depending on caseload and travel readiness.
6. Can adoptive children qualify under Form N-600K?
Yes, if the child meets all eligibility requirements, including legal custody and U.S. citizen parentage, adoptive children can qualify.
