The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a new option for applicants filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. Starting April 1, 2024, these individuals will be able to request an original or replacement Social Security number (SSN) or card directly on the application form. This eliminates the need for separate visits to Social Security Administration (SSA) offices.
This change applies specifically to applicants using the new edition of Form N-400, dated April 1, 2024. If you are filing with the older version of the form (dated September 17, 2019), this option is not available. The new form will be available for online filing starting April 1st. To take advantage of online filing, applicants can create a USCIS online account, which offers a secure and convenient way to submit forms, pay fees, and track the status of their application.
This new option streamlines the naturalization process for new U.S. citizens. They may no longer need to visit an SSA office to apply for an SSN or update their immigration status with the SSA. However, the SSA may still request additional information if needed.
If you don’t choose the SSN update option during your citizenship application, or if you’re using the older version of Form N-400 (dated September 17, 2019), you’ll need to visit a Social Security office after obtaining citizenship. USCIS recommends waiting at least 10 days after your citizenship oath ceremony. Be sure to bring your U.S. citizenship certificate or passport as proof of citizenship when you visit the office.
Keeping your Social Security record up-to-date is important for several reasons. First, an accurate SSN allows you to obtain employment, receive Social Security benefits, and access other government services. Second, when you’re hired, employers use your SSN to verify your work eligibility through a Department of Homeland Security system. An outdated SSN record could lead to issues with this verification process, especially for jobs requiring U.S. citizenship.
Finally, here’s some additional information to keep in mind: The current citizenship application fee is $760, but there’s a $50 discount for filing online, bringing the cost down to $710.