How to Request a Certificate of Citizenship for Adopted Children: Procedures and Paperwork

Introduction

Obtaining a Certificate of Citizenship for your adopted child is essential to confirm their U.S. citizenship. This document serves as a legal affirmation of citizenship, which can be significant for applications for services or travel. The procedures for applying differ depending on whether your child resides within the United States or abroad.

Eligibility Criteria

Before you begin the application process, it’s important to verify that your child meets the fundamental eligibility requirements outlined in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). The following criteria apply:

  • Definition of Child: To be deemed eligible, the child must fit into one of the specified categories defined by the INA. These categories include:

    • – Orphans: As per Section 101(b)(1)(E), which applies to children who have lost both parents.
    – Children of U.S. citizens: Under Section 101(b)(1)(F), this applies to children adopted by U.S. citizens.
    – Other Adopted Children: Covered in Section 101(b)(1)(G), this section pertains to children who meet other specific criteria.

  • Parental Citizenship: It is required that at least one parent be a U.S. citizen, whether by birth or through naturalization.
  • Age Requirement: The child must be under 18 years old when all conditions for citizenship are satisfied.

    • Application Process for Children Residing Inside the United States

    If your adopted child is living in the United States, adhere to the following procedure:

  • Complete Form N-600: This is the “Application for Certificate of Citizenship” which you will submit to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
  • Collect Necessary Documentation: Ensure you have the following:

    • – Proof of Legal and Physical Custody: This may include the adoption decree or any legal documentation confirming custody.
    – Evidence of Parental Citizenship: Provide documentation such as the birth certificate or naturalization certificate of the U.S. citizen parent.
    – Child’s Birth Certificate: You must submit the child’s original birth certificate.
    – Proof of Permanent Resident Status: Include a copy of your child’s Green Card, if applicable.

  • Pay the Required Filing Fee: Refer to the USCIS Fee Schedule to find the current fee related to Form N-600.
  • Prepare for an Interview: USCIS may require an interview to authenticate the information provided in your application.
  • Receive the Certificate: If approved, USCIS will issue the Certificate of Citizenship to you.

    • Application Process for Children Residing Outside the United States

    For children living outside the U.S., the application involves:

  • Submit Form N-600K: This is the “Application for Citizenship and Issuance of Certificate Under Section 322,” which you will send to USCIS.
  • Gather Required Documentation: Ensure you collect the following:

    • – Proof of Parental Citizenship: Documentation such as the birth or naturalization certificate of the U.S. citizen parent is needed.
    – Child’s Birth Certificate: Include the original birth certificate of your child.
    – Legal and Physical Custody Proof: Submit the adoption decree or similar legal documents proving custody.
    – Evidence of Parental Physical Presence: You must prove that the U.S. citizen parent has been physically present in the U.S. for at least five years, including at least two years after the age of 14.

  • Pay the Filing Fee: Check the USCIS Fee Schedule for the current fee associated with Form N-600K.
  • Attend an Interview: USCIS will arrange an interview for the child to take the Oath of Allegiance unless it is waived under specific circumstances.
  • Obtain the Certificate: After approval, USCIS will issue the Certificate of Citizenship.

    • Additional Considerations

  • Fee Exemptions: Certain adoptees may qualify for fee exemptions for Forms N-600 or N-600K. Visit the USCIS Fee Schedule for further details.
  • Lost Certificates: If the Certificate of Citizenship is lost or destroyed, you should file Form N-565, the “Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document,” to obtain a replacement.
  • Obtaining a U.S. Passport: After securing the Certificate of Citizenship, you may also apply for a U.S. passport on your child’s behalf to serve as additional proof of citizenship. For detailed instructions, refer to the official U.S. State Department website.

    • Conclusion

    Acquiring a Certificate of Citizenship for your adopted child is a crucial undertaking that confirms their U.S. citizenship status. By following the specified procedures and ensuring all of the necessary documentation is included, you can effectively navigate the application process. For the most up-to-date information and guidelines, consult the official USCIS website or consider seeking legal advice.

    Key Facts

  • Form N-600: Designed for children living in the U.S. to secure a Certificate of Citizenship.
  • Form N-600K: Intended for children residing outside the U.S. seeking a Certificate of Citizenship.
  • Fee Exemptions: Certain adoptees may be eligible for exemptions from fees on Form N-600 and N-600K.

    • Sources

  • U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), “U.S. Citizenship for an Adopted Child,” (uscis.gov)
  • USCIS, “Application for Citizenship and Issuance of Certificate Under Section 322,” (uscis.gov)
  • U.S. Department of State, “Obtaining Citizenship or Documenting Acquired Citizenship for Adopted Children,” (travel.state.gov)