Proof of citizenship definition

Proof of citizenship is necessary when dealing with all levels of U.S. government. The main proof of citizenship is the U.S. Passport.

However, people who wish to apply for a passport will need to submit certain documents that are accepted as evidence of U.S. citizenship. Generally, a birth certificate or naturalization paperwork can be used as proof of citizenship to obtain a passport.

If the applicant is renewing a passport, the old passport will suffice. Proof of citizenship will only be required for first time passport applicants. The birth certificate demonstrates proof of citizenship and is one of the reasons why it is so important.

Also, the Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth (CRBA) is mandatory for persons who were born abroad to U.S. citizens.

Proof of Citizenship Documents

There are various documents available to citizens of the United States of America that they can use to prove their citizenship. These are as follows:

• Birth certificate showing birth in the United States
• Form N-550, Certificate of Naturalization
• Form N-560, Certificate of Citizenship
• Form FS-240, Report of Birth Abroad of United States Citizen
• Valid unexpired U.S. passport

If you were born overseas, and do not have any of the above documents, you can apply to the U.S. Department of State for a U.S. passport. For information about applying for a U.S. passport, go to the U.S. Department of State website.

If you are already in the United States, you can apply to the USCIS by using a Form N-600, Application for Certificate of Citizenship. However, it’s recommended to apply for a passport instead, as it can be used for travelling purposes, and it’s usually a faster process.

If you ‘ve already been issued a Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization and need a replacement, you should file a Form N-565, Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document.