Replace Citizenship Certificate (N-565)

Who qualifies

You were issued a Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of Citizenship, Declaration of Intention, or Repatriation certificate by USCIS or a court.

The step-by-step roadmap

1. 1

   Confirm N-565 is the right form

   Use N-565 to replace a lost, stolen, damaged or incorrect certificate, or after a legal name or gender change. A U.S. passport is a separate document and is not replaced with N-565.

   Watch out: If your certificate has an error made by USCIS, you may not owe a fee.

   Common rejection reason: Filing N-565 when you never received a certificate in the first place.
2. 2

   Gather proof

   Collect two passport-style photos, a copy of the damaged certificate if you have it, and proof of any name or gender change (court order or marriage certificate).

   Watch out: Write your name and A-Number lightly on the back of each photo in pencil.

   Common rejection reason: Missing photos or missing proof of a name change.
3. 3

   Complete Form N-565

   Fill in your personal details and explain why you need a replacement. Describe the loss or theft in detail.

   Watch out: If stolen, include a police report if you have one.

   Common rejection reason: Unsigned form or vague explanation.
4. 4

   File and pay

   File online or by mail with the current fee. Check the USCIS fee schedule before paying.

   Watch out: Paper fees are higher than online fees.

   Common rejection reason: Wrong fee amount.
5. 5

   Biometrics and decision

   USCIS may schedule a biometrics appointment and will mail the new certificate or schedule you to pick it up.

   Watch out: Keep your receipt notice.

   Common rejection reason: Missing the biometrics appointment.

Documents you'll need

• Two passport-style photos

  Recent 2x2 inch color photos.

  Note: Taken within 30 days of filing.

• Copy of the old certificate

  If damaged or incorrect, include the original.

  Note: Not needed if lost or stolen.

• Proof of name or gender change

  Court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree.

  Note: Only if your name or gender changed.

• Police report

  Report of the theft.

  Note: Only if stolen; recommended, not required.