N-400 processing time
Form N-400 is the Application for Naturalization. Permanent residents file it to become US citizens, usually after five years (three if married to a US citizen). The table shows the median time USCIS took to complete these cases in its latest quarterly report, and how many were still pending.
| Category | Median time | Pending |
|---|---|---|
| Application for Naturalization | 9.5 months | 727,371 |
| Application for Naturalization (Military) | 2.6 months | 14,767 |
How to read USCIS processing times
The median is the middle case: half of the cases USCIS completed that quarter took less time, half took more. Your office and case type can differ. For a case-specific estimate, check the USCIS processing times tool; if your case is older than the time it shows, USCIS lets you submit an outside-normal-processing-time inquiry online.
While you wait
Prepare for the civics and English tests, and keep records of your travel outside the US.
How do I check my N-400 status?
Use the USCIS Case Status Online tool with the receipt number on your receipt notice (it starts with three letters, such as IOE, LIN or SRC).
This page explains public information and is not legal advice.