Q: When does my time as a Permanent Resident begin?
A: Your time as a Permanent Resident begins on the date you were granted permanent resident status. This date is on your Permanent Resident Card (formerly known as Alien Registration Card).

Q: What form do I use to file for naturalization?
A: You should use an "Application for Naturalization" (Form N-400).

Q: If I have been convicted of a crime but my record has been expunged, do I need to indicate that on my application or tell an Immigration officer?
A: Yes. You should always be honest with Immigration regarding all: Arrests (including those by police, Immigration Officers, and other Federal Agents); convictions (even if they have been expunged); and crimes you have committed for which you were not arrested or convicted. Even if you have committed a minor crime, Immigration may deny your application if you do not tell the Immigration officer about the incident. It is extremely important that you tell Immigration about any arrest even if someone else has advised you that you are not required to do so.

Q: Where do I file my naturalization application?
A: You should send your completed "Application for Naturalization" (Form N-400) to the appropriate USCIS Service Center. Remember to make a copy of your application. DO NOT send original documents with your application unless the checklist states that an original is required.

Q: If USCIS grants me naturalization, when will I become a citizen?
A: You become a citizen as soon as you take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States. In some places, you can choose to take the Oath the same day as your interview. If that option is not available or if you prefer a ceremony at a later date, USCIS will notify you of the ceremony date with a "Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony" (Form N-445).

Q: What can I do if USCIS denies my application?
A: There is an administrative review process for those who are denied naturalization. If you feel that you have been wrongly denied naturalization, you may request a hearing with an immigration officer. Your denial letter will explain how to request a hearing and will include the form you need. The form for filing an appeal is the "Request for Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings under Section 336 of the Act" (Form N-336).