N-400 processing time 2026: how long it takes
How long citizenship (N-400) takes according to the official USCIS median, for general and military naturalization, and when you are allowed to file.
Source: USCIS quarterly report — accessed Oct 19, 2026
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N-400 median processing time
| Period | Category | Median (months) |
|---|---|---|
| FY2026 Q3 | Application for Naturalization | 9.5 |
| FY2026 Q3 | Military | 2.6 |
N-400 key facts
- You may file Form N-400 90 calendar days before you complete your continuous residence requirement if your eligibility is based on being a permanent resident for at least 5 years, or for at least 3 years if you are married to a U.S. citizen. (Source)
- If you are requesting a reduced fee or filing a fee waiver, you cannot file Form N-400 online: you must file a paper form. (Source)
- N-400 applicants must generally submit biometrics unless USCIS waives the requirement, and receive a notice with their appointment at an application support center (ASC). (Source)
- The current edition of Form N-400 is 01/20/25, and it can be filed online or by mail. (Source)
What you can control in your naturalization
Citizenship has one advantage over other filings: you can work out in advance when you are allowed to apply. USCIS lets you send the N-400 a little before you complete your continuous residence, and the eligibility tool on its page helps confirm that date. Filing too early is one of the simplest reasons for a rejection.
The quarterly report keeps general naturalization apart from military naturalization. The latter covers members of the armed forces, so do not use it as a benchmark if you are a civilian.
Along the way, the usual milestones are the biometrics appointment, the English and civics tests and, if all goes well, the oath. The better prepared you arrive at the test, the lower the risk that your case drags on because of a second appointment. We have a step-by-step guide to the citizenship test.
If you plan to request a fee waiver, expect a paper filing. People who file on paper still get a notice inviting them to create an online account and follow the case from there, which is worth doing so you never miss an appointment notice.
With an online account you can pay, get notifications, view personalized case completion date estimates and respond to requests for evidence. And if a disability prevents you from meeting the English or civics requirements, USCIS lets you request an exception with Form N-648.
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Frequently asked questions
What does the N-400 median include?
It measures the time from the day USCIS receives the application until it completes it. The oath ceremony can take place after the decision.
Why is there a separate military row?
USCIS reports naturalization for members of the armed forces separately. If you are not in the military, use the general row.
Can I file online if I ask for a fee waiver?
No. According to USCIS, with a reduced fee or a fee waiver you must file a paper N-400 together with the waiver request.
Official sources
- USCIS — Form N-400, Application for Naturalization → — accessed Oct 19, 2026
- USCIS quarterly report (FY2026 Q3) → — accessed Oct 19, 2026
