Applying for U.S. citizenship (Form N-400) is the final step in your immigration journey—but before you can take the Oath of Allegiance, your background must pass a rigorous federal security check. Unlike many other immigration benefits, the citizenship background check is not something you can "request" or "submit" on your own. Instead, USCIS automatically initiates a fingerprint-based FBI criminal history check after you file your N-400. This check is a critical component of the "good moral character" (GMC) requirement and is used to verify that you have not committed crimes or violated immigration laws that would bar naturalization. While the process is largely automatic, understanding how it works, what can trigger delays, and how to prepare for potential issues will save you months of anxiety and help ensure a smooth path to citizenship.
Key rule (July 2026): USCIS requires a new FBI fingerprint-based background check for every naturalization application—even if you were fingerprinted for a green card or previous immigration benefit. The fingerprint results are valid for 15 months from the date of capture. If your N-400 processing extends beyond that period, USCIS may require you to be re-fingerprinted, which can add weeks to your timeline.
The Naturalization Background Check: What USCIS Looks For
When you file Form N-400, USCIS does not require you to submit an FBI Identity History Summary or state police certificates. Instead, USCIS initiates its own background check using the fingerprints you provide at your biometrics appointment. This check is conducted through the FBI's Next Generation Identification (NGI) system and cross‑referenced with DHS, ICE, and other law enforcement databases. The purpose is twofold: first, to identify any criminal history that could affect your eligibility for citizenship; second, to confirm that you are not a national security risk.
USCIS uses the background check to evaluate your good moral character during the statutory period (typically 5 years, or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen). Even if a crime occurred before that period, USCIS may still consider it if it indicates a pattern of bad character. The check also reveals any immigration violations, such as prior removals or fraud, and can be used to verify your identity.
| What USCIS Searches For | Why It Matters | If Found, What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Arrests, charges, and convictions | May affect good moral character | RFE, possible denial unless rebutted |
| Outstanding warrants or open cases | Indicates unresolved legal issues | Application placed on hold |
| Immigration fraud or misrepresentation | Bar to naturalization | Denial and potential removal |
| National security flags | Inadmissibility | Deferred or denied |
How the FBI Fingerprint Check Works for N-400
The fingerprint check is a sequential process that begins after you file Form N-400 and pay the filing and biometrics fees. Here is the step‑by‑step breakdown:
- File Form N-400 — Submit your naturalization application online or by mail. Include the filing fee ($760) and biometrics fee ($85), unless you qualify for a fee waiver.
- Receive the biometrics appointment notice — Within 2–4 weeks, USCIS will mail you a notice (Form I-797C) with the date, time, and location of your nearest Application Support Center (ASC).
- Attend the biometrics appointment — At the ASC, you will have your fingerprints, photograph, and signature captured digitally. This information is transmitted to the FBI within 24–48 hours.
- FBI processing — The FBI runs your fingerprints through its Next Generation Identification (NGI) system and returns a report to USCIS. Most checks are completed within 72 hours, but some may take up to 2 weeks if there are potential matches.
- USCIS review — USCIS adjudicators review the FBI report alongside your N-400 and other evidence. If no derogatory information appears, USCIS proceeds with your interview scheduling. If there is a match, USCIS may issue an RFE for dispositions or schedule you for an interview to discuss the record.
The background check is a prerequisite for your naturalization interview. USCIS will not schedule your interview until the background check is cleared. However, the interview itself may still occur before the background check is fully completed in some cases—but a decision will not be issued until the check is finalized.
Common Issues That Can Delay or Derail Citizenship
Even if you believe you have a clean record, several issues can slow down or stop your naturalization. Here are the most frequent pitfalls and how to avoid them:
- Undisclosed arrests or charges — Even if the arrest was dismissed or expunged, USCIS will see it on your FBI report. Failing to disclose an arrest is considered misrepresentation and can lead to denial and removal. Always disclose everything and provide documentation.
- Outstanding warrants — If you have any active warrant, USCIS will put your application on hold until the warrant is resolved. You must clear the warrant before USCIS will proceed.
- Felony convictions during the statutory period — Certain crimes (especially aggravated felonies) make you permanently ineligible for citizenship. If you have a felony, consult an immigration attorney immediately.
- Multiple DUIs — Two or more DUI convictions within the statutory period create a rebuttable presumption of bad moral character. You can overcome this by presenting evidence of rehabilitation (e.g., completion of alcohol treatment programs).
- Failure to pay taxes or child support — While not criminal, USCIS considers failure to meet financial obligations as evidence of bad moral character. Ensure you are current on all tax filings and court-ordered payments.
If you receive a Request for Evidence (RFE) related to your background check, respond promptly and completely. Provide certified court dispositions, police reports, or any other documents that explain the arrest and show the final outcome. Missing the RFE deadline will result in a denial.
Fees, Processing Times, and What Happens After the Check
The background check is included in your N-400 filing fees—you do not pay a separate fee for the FBI check. However, if you need to request your own FBI Identity History Summary for personal review, that costs $18 (or more if using a Channeler). The table below outlines the timeline and costs associated with the background check portion of naturalization.
| Stage | Timeline | Cost to You | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Filing N-400 (includes biometrics fee) | Immediate | $760 filing + $85 biometrics = $845 total | Fee waiver available for low-income applicants |
| Biometrics appointment scheduling | 2–4 weeks after filing | Included in $845 | USCIS sends notice with date and location |
| FBI background check processing | 24–72 hours (typical); up to 2 weeks if flag | Included in $845 | Results sent to USCIS electronically |
| If RFE issued for dispositions | 60–90 days to respond | Cost of obtaining court records (varies) | Must respond within deadline; failure = denial |
| Interview scheduling | After background check clears; often 8–14 months | No additional cost | Interview is where you present evidence |
Once your background check is cleared and you pass the interview and English/civics tests, USCIS will schedule you for the Oath Ceremony. At that point, the background check is no longer a concern—your citizenship is granted.
What to Do If Your Background Check Reveals an Arrest
If you have an arrest on your record, do not panic. Most arrests—especially old ones or those that did not result in a conviction—can be explained and overcome. Follow this action plan:
- Obtain certified court dispositions for every arrest. If no charges were filed, obtain a letter from the prosecutor’s office stating that the case was declined.
- Gather evidence of rehabilitation — letters of reference, proof of community service, completion of any court-ordered programs, certificates of good conduct.
- Disclose everything on your N-400, in the "additional information" section, and bring all documents to your interview.
- Be prepared to explain the circumstances — what happened, what you learned, and how you have changed. USCIS officers are more concerned with recent conduct than old mistakes.
- If you have multiple offenses or a serious crime, consult an immigration attorney before filing. They can assess whether you are statutorily barred and advise on waivers if applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to submit my own FBI background check when I apply for citizenship?
A: No. USCIS will initiate a background check automatically after you file Form N-400 and complete your biometrics. You do not need to obtain or submit an FBI Identity History Summary yourself. However, you may order one for your own review to see what USCIS will see.
Q: How long does the citizenship background check take?
A: The FBI fingerprint check typically takes 24 to 72 hours to process once your fingerprints are taken. However, if the FBI finds a potential match or if your fingerprints are rejected, it may take up to 2 weeks. Overall, the background check is usually completed before your naturalization interview, which may be scheduled many months later.
Q: Will a DUI stop me from becoming a U.S. citizen?
A: A single DUI without aggravating factors generally does not automatically bar naturalization. However, multiple DUIs, especially within the statutory period, can create a presumption of bad moral character. You can overcome this with evidence of rehabilitation. A DUI involving injury, death, or a child in the vehicle may be treated as an aggravated felony and could permanently bar you.
Q: What if I was arrested but never charged—do I still have to disclose it?
A: Yes. The N-400 asks if you have "ever" been arrested, detained, or charged. You must answer "yes" even if no charges were filed. Provide an explanation and a letter from the arresting agency or prosecutor confirming that no charges were filed.
Q: My record was expunged—do I still need to disclose it?
A: Absolutely. Expungement at the state level does not erase the record for immigration purposes. The FBI background check will show the arrest. Failure to disclose is misrepresentation. Always disclose the arrest and provide the expungement order as part of your documentation.