Mastering Your Citizenship Application: A Citizenship Application Cover Letter Sample Guide

So, you're ready to take the big step and apply for citizenship! That's awesome. To make sure your application is as strong as possible, it's super important to include a well-written cover letter. This article will walk you through everything you need to know about a Citizenship Application Cover Letter Sample, helping you put your best foot forward.

Why Your Cover Letter Matters

Think of your cover letter as your first impression with the immigration authorities. It's your chance to introduce yourself and explain why you're applying for citizenship. The importance of a clear and concise cover letter cannot be overstated. It acts as a roadmap for the reviewer, highlighting key documents and providing context for your application. Here's what your cover letter should generally do:

Clearly state the purpose of your letter: applying for citizenship.
Mention the specific application form you are submitting (e.g., N-400).
Briefly summarize your eligibility and your long-term commitment to the country.

Key Information to Include:
- Your full name
- Your Alien Registration Number (A-Number)
- Your date of birth
- Your contact information (address, phone number, email)

Supporting Documents: You should list the main documents you are including with your application. This might look something like this:

Document Type	Number of Copies
Application Form (N-400)	1
Passport-style Photographs	2
Birth Certificate	1

Citizenship Application Cover Letter Sample for General Application

[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address] [Date] U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services [Appropriate Service Center Address - Check USCIS Website] Subject: Citizenship Application (Form N-400) - [Your Full Name] - A-Number: [Your A-Number] Dear USCIS Officer, I am writing to respectfully submit my Application for Naturalization, Form N-400, along with all the required supporting documents. I am applying for U.S. citizenship based on my [mention your eligibility basis, e.g., five years of lawful permanent residence]. I have been a lawful permanent resident of the United States since [Date you became a lawful permanent resident], and I have lived continuously in the U.S. for [Number] years. I am committed to upholding the duties and responsibilities of U.S. citizenship and am eager to contribute further to American society. Attached to this application, please find the following documents for your review:

Completed Form N-400, Application for Naturalization
Two passport-style photographs
Copy of my Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
[List any other relevant documents, e.g., Birth Certificate, Marriage Certificate]

I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address]. Thank you for your time and consideration of my application. Sincerely, [Your Signature] [Your Typed Full Name]

Citizenship Application Cover Letter Sample When Reapplying

[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address] [Date] U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services [Appropriate Service Center Address - Check USCIS Website] Subject: Reapplication for Citizenship (Form N-400) - [Your Full Name] - A-Number: [Your A-Number] Dear USCIS Officer, Please accept this letter and the accompanying documents as my reapplication for U.S. citizenship, Form N-400. I previously applied for naturalization on [Date of previous application], and while I respect the decision, I have since [briefly explain the reason for reapplying, e.g., addressed the issue of continuous residence]. I have carefully reviewed the reasons for my previous application's denial and have taken the necessary steps to ensure that my current application meets all eligibility requirements. I remain dedicated to becoming a U.S. citizen and contributing to our nation. The following documents are enclosed with this reapplication:

Completed Form N-400, Application for Naturalization
Two passport-style photographs
Copy of my Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
[List any documents that demonstrate you have addressed the previous denial reason, e.g., proof of extended stay outside the U.S. and its purpose]

I appreciate your understanding and diligence in reviewing my case. I am available for an interview and can be contacted at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address]. Sincerely, [Your Signature] [Your Typed Full Name]

Citizenship Application Cover Letter Sample for Military Personnel

Completed Form N-400, Application for Naturalization
Two passport-style photographs
Copy of my Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
Copy of my military orders or deployment records
[Any other relevant military documents]

I am available for an interview and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address]. Thank you for your consideration and for the opportunity to serve. Sincerely, [Your Signature] [Your Typed Full Name]

Citizenship Application Cover Letter Sample for Applicants with Disabilities

[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address] [Date] U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services [Appropriate Service Center Address - Check USCIS Website] Subject: Citizenship Application (Form N-400) - [Your Full Name] - A-Number: [Your A-Number] - Request for Accommodation Dear USCIS Officer, I am writing to submit my Application for Naturalization, Form N-400. I am requesting an accommodation for my [describe disability briefly, e.g., hearing impairment] during the naturalization process. I have enclosed a completed Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions, completed by my physician. This accommodation will help ensure that I can fully understand and participate in the naturalization interview and examination. I am committed to becoming a U.S. citizen and believe I meet all eligibility requirements. The following documents are included with my application:

Completed Form N-400, Application for Naturalization
Two passport-style photographs
Copy of my Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
Completed Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions
[Any other relevant supporting documents]

I am eager to proceed with my application and am available for an interview. Please contact me at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address] to discuss any necessary arrangements. Thank you for your understanding and assistance. Sincerely, [Your Signature] [Your Typed Full Name]

Citizenship Application Cover Letter Sample for Applicants Requesting Language Exemptions

[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address] [Date] U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services [Appropriate Service Center Address - Check USCIS Website] Subject: Citizenship Application (Form N-400) - [Your Full Name] - A-Number: [Your A-Number] - Request for English Language Exemption Dear USCIS Officer, I am submitting my Application for Naturalization, Form N-400. I am requesting an exemption from the English language requirement for the naturalization test based on my [explain your exemption, e.g., age and length of permanent residency, or a medical disability as certified by Form N-648]. I have been a lawful permanent resident of the United States since [Date you became a lawful permanent resident] and have resided here for over [Number] years. I am attaching the necessary documentation to support my request for this exemption. Enclosed with this application, please find:

Completed Form N-400, Application for Naturalization
Two passport-style photographs
Copy of my Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
[If applicable: Completed Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions]
[If applicable: Proof of age and residency, e.g., copy of passport showing entry date]

I am dedicated to becoming a U.S. citizen and believe I meet all other eligibility criteria. I am available for an interview and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address]. Thank you for considering my application. Sincerely, [Your Signature] [Your Typed Full Name]

Citizenship Application Cover Letter Sample for Applicants with Criminal Record

[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address] [Date] U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services [Appropriate Service Center Address - Check USCIS Website] Subject: Citizenship Application (Form N-400) - [Your Full Name] - A-Number: [Your A-Number] - Disclosure of Arrest Record Dear USCIS Officer, I am submitting my Application for Naturalization, Form N-400, and wish to proactively disclose information regarding a past arrest. I understand the importance of full transparency in the naturalization process and want to provide complete details about this matter. On [Date of arrest], I was arrested for [briefly state the charge, e.g., shoplifting]. The case was subsequently [explain the outcome, e.g., dismissed, I was found not guilty, I completed a diversion program]. I have attached certified court records that detail the proceedings and final disposition of this case. I have been a lawful permanent resident since [Date you became a lawful permanent resident] and have maintained good moral character since that time. I am eager to demonstrate my commitment to the United States and its laws. The following documents are included with my application:

Completed Form N-400, Application for Naturalization
Two passport-style photographs
Copy of my Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
Certified court disposition for the arrest on [Date of arrest]
[Any other supporting documents, e.g., character reference letters]

I am available for an interview to discuss this matter further and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address]. Thank you for your careful review of my application. Sincerely, [Your Signature] [Your Typed Full Name]

Citizenship Application Cover Letter Sample for Applicants Requesting Expedited Processing

[Your Full Name] [Your Address] [Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address] [Date] U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services [Appropriate Service Center Address - Check USCIS Website] Subject: Citizenship Application (Form N-400) - [Your Full Name] - A-Number: [Your A-Number] - Request for Expedited Processing Dear USCIS Officer, I am submitting my Application for Naturalization, Form N-400, and am requesting expedited processing. My request is based on [clearly state your reason for expedited processing, e.g., severe financial loss to myself or my employer, urgent humanitarian reasons, or compelling U.S. government interests]. [Provide a detailed explanation of your reason for expedited processing. For example, if it's financial loss, explain how it affects you or your employer and why citizenship is necessary to mitigate it. If it's humanitarian, explain the urgent need. If it's government interest, explain how your citizenship will serve that interest.] I have enclosed documentation to support my request for expedited processing, including [list the supporting documents, e.g., letter from employer, medical documentation, evidence of financial hardship]. I believe my situation warrants special consideration. The following documents are included with my application:

Completed Form N-400, Application for Naturalization
Two passport-style photographs
Copy of my Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
[List of documents supporting expedited request]

I am available for an interview and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address]. Thank you for your prompt attention to this urgent matter. Sincerely, [Your Signature] [Your Typed Full Name]

By understanding the purpose and crafting a well-written Citizenship Application Cover Letter Sample, you significantly boost your chances of a smooth and successful citizenship journey. Remember to tailor your letter to your specific situation and always provide all the requested documentation. Good luck!