Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document [Form N-565]

Recover your naturalization or citizenship certificate with the right legal guidance

Form N-565, Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document, is used when a U.S. citizen needs to replace an original certificate issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

This process applies in cases of loss, theft, damage, error, or legal name change, ensuring that the citizen can obtain a new valid official document confirming their legal status in the country.

At Legalízate Ya, we accompany each client with a professional and meticulous approach, ensuring that the process is carried out correctly and without unnecessary delays.

Table of Contents

• What is Form N-565?
• When must Form N-565 be filed?
• Necessary documents and requirements
• Step-by-step application process
• Common mistakes to avoid
• Professional assistance with Legalízate Ya
• 📞 Contact us today

What is Form N-565?

Form N-565 is the application that U.S. citizens by naturalization or by birth must file to obtain an official replacement for the following documents issued by USCIS:

• Certificate of Naturalization
• Certificate of Citizenship
• Declaration of Intention
• Repatriation Certificate
• Special Certificate of Naturalization issued to naturalized citizens representing the United States in a foreign country

This form does not grant a new immigration status, but rather replaces an existing document proving the applicant’s citizenship or naturalization.

When must Form N-565 be filed?

You must file Form N-565 with USCIS if:

• Your naturalization or citizenship certificate was lost, stolen, or destroyed.
• The document was significantly damaged and needs replacement.
• It contains a USCIS error (such as an incorrect name or date).
• You have had a legal name change after the document was issued.
• The certificate was issued with incorrect information due to a data entry or transcription error.

The form can also be filed if the citizen requires a replacement copy of a certificate issued many years ago and no longer has access to it.

Necessary documents and requirements

To file your application correctly, you must attach the following documentation:

• Completed and signed Form N-565.
• Payment of the corresponding fee to USCIS (see updated fees on the official website).
• Proof of citizenship, such as a copy of the damaged document or, if you don’t have it, a copy of your passport or government-issued ID.
• Evidence of legal name change, if applicable (e.g., marriage certificate, court order, or divorce decree).
• Explanation or affidavit regarding the loss, theft, or damage of the original document.
• In cases of error attributable to USCIS, the original certificate and documentation supporting the requested correction must be attached.

Step-by-step application process

1. Prepare documentation: gather all necessary information and evidence to support your application.
2. Complete Form N-565: ensure you answer each question accurately.
3. Submit the application to USCIS: by mail or online, along with supporting documents and the corresponding payment.
4. Receive receipt notice (Form I-797C): USCIS will confirm receipt of your application.
5. Attend biometrics appointment (if required): in some cases, USCIS may request fingerprint verification.
6. Wait for the final decision: once the application is processed, you will receive the new certificate by mail.

Processing time varies, but in general, it can take several months depending on USCIS workload.

Common mistakes to avoid

When preparing an N-565 application, it is important to avoid:

• Not including sufficient evidence of loss or damage to the document.
• Sending an incorrect fee or not signing the form.
• Requesting a correction without attaching documents supporting the change.
• Not updating your address with USCIS during the process, which could lead to loss of the shipment.

Proper legal support ensures that your application is clear, complete, and free of errors that cause delays.

Professional assistance with Legalízate Ya

At Legalízate Ya, we understand the importance of having a document proving your citizenship or naturalization.
Our team offers you professional and personalized assistance, verifying every detail of your Form N-565, attached documents, and possible causes of error.

We help you:

• Review the eligibility of your case.
• Correctly prepare your form.
• Draft a formal statement regarding loss or damage.
• Submit adequate evidence and follow up with USCIS.

Our commitment is to facilitate an efficient, secure, and hassle-free process for you.

📞 Contact us today

Did you lose or need to replace your citizenship or naturalization certificate?
Contact Legalízate Ya today at (956) 725-9714 or visit www.legalizateya.com/en.

Let our expert immigration attorneys guide you step-by-step to recover your official document quickly and confidently.

Legalízate Ya — Your trust, our priority in every immigration procedure.