Your U.S. Naturalization Certificate helps prove that you are a naturalized citizen of the U.S. There are many reasons why you may need your U.S. Naturalization Certificate. For example, if you are sponsoring a family member for a green card or if you are running for office or applying for a U.S. passport, you may need your Naturalization Certificate to prove your status as a U.S. citizen. If you have lost your Naturalization Certificate or if it is damaged, you will not lose your status; you will still be a US citizen. However, proving your status will be more challenging until you get your certificate replaced.
If your Naturalization Certificate has been stolen, you will want to not only inform authorities of the crime to prevent identity theft, but you will also want to replace your document so that you have proof of your citizenship status. You can do this by filing US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Form N-565. Luckily, the form only requires a bit of work and is only two pages long. The following will help you to successfully file Form N-565.
Complete the Form N-565
Get a copy of the form and instructions. You can do this by visiting the USCIS website. Review the form carefully and read the instructions through before you start filling out the form.
Fill out the personal biographical information required on the form, including information about where you received your Naturalization Certificate originally. If you have a copy of your Naturalization Certificate, include this with your form. If you do not have a copy handy, you can still file Form N-565 without the copy.
