- Permanent residency
Certificate of U.S. Citizenship
Start Your Permanent Life Together in the USA
Proving your US citizenship is key to enjoying the full rights and privileges of being an American.
Whether you were born abroad to US citizen parents or derived citizenship through your parents’ naturalization, obtaining your Certificate of Citizenship can provide you with indisputable proof of your status.
At Altius Immigration Law, our citizenship and naturalization attorneys are here to guide you through every step of this important process.
What is a Certificate of Citizenship?
A Certificate of Citizenship is an official document issued by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that serves as proof of US citizenship for individuals who:
- Were born abroad to US citizen parent(s)
- Acquired or derived US citizenship through the naturalization of their parent(s)
- Automatically became citizens as children through operation of law
This valuable document provides conclusive evidence of US citizenship, which can be crucial for various aspects of life, including employment, travel, and accessing government benefits.
Who Needs a Certificate of Citizenship?
You may need a Certificate of Citizenship if:
- You were born outside the U.S. to one or both U.S. citizen parents
- You became a U.S. citizen when your parent(s) naturalized while you were a minor
- You automatically acquired U.S. citizenship through operation of law
- You need conclusive proof of your U.S. citizenship for legal or personal reasons
It’s important to note that a Certificate of Citizenship is different from a naturalization certificate. While both prove U.S. citizenship, they are obtained through different processes and apply to different situations.


The Certificate of Citizenship Application Process
Obtaining a Certificate of Citizenship involves several key steps:
- Determine Eligibility: We assess your situation to confirm your eligibility for a Certificate of Citizenship.
- Gather Documentation: Collect necessary supporting documents, which may include birth certificates, parents’ naturalization certificates, and evidence of physical presence in the U.S.
- Complete Form N-600: Accurately fill out the Application for Certificate of Citizenship.
- Pay Fees: Submit the required USCIS filing fee.
- File the Application: Submit your completed N-600 form and supporting documents to USCIS.
- Receive Receipt Notice: USCIS will send a notice confirming receipt of your application.
- Attend Biometrics Appointment: If required, attend an appointment to provide your fingerprints, photograph, and signature.
- Respond to Requests for Evidence: If USCIS needs additional information, they will send a Request for Evidence (RFE).
- Attend Interview: In some cases, USCIS may require an interview to verify information on your application.
- Await Decision: USCIS will review your application and make a decision.
- Receive Certificate: If approved, USCIS will either mail your Certificate of Citizenship or schedule a ceremony for you to receive it.
At Altius Immigration Law, we guide you through each of these steps, ensuring accuracy and completeness at every stage.
Why Choose Altius Immigration Law for Your Certificate of Citizenship?
When you partner with Altius for your Certificate of Citizenship application, you’re choosing:
- Experienced Attorneys: Our team has successfully handled numerous Certificate of Citizenship cases, navigating complex citizenship laws and procedures with precision.
- Personalized Approach: We understand that every individual’s path to citizenship is unique. Our approach combines legal experience with genuine care for your specific situation.
- Comprehensive Support: From determining your eligibility to following up with USCIS, we’re by your side at every stage.
- Multilingual Services: We offer assistance in English, Portuguese, Spanish, and French, ensuring clear communication throughout the process.
- Attention to Detail: We meticulously prepare your application, ensuring all necessary documentation is included to avoid delays or denials.


Common Challenges in Certificate of Citizenship Applications
Obtaining a Certificate of Citizenship can be complex, and applicants often face challenges:
- Proving Parental U.S. Citizenship: Gathering sufficient evidence of a parent’s U.S. citizenship, especially for events that occurred many years ago.
- Demonstrating Physical Presence: Providing documentation to show a U.S. citizen parent’s physical presence in the U.S. for the required period.
- Navigating Changing Laws: Understanding which citizenship law applies based on your date of birth and other factors.
- Dealing with Complex Family Situations: Addressing issues related to adoption, out-of-wedlock births, or step-parent relationships.
- Overcoming Documentation Gaps: Finding alternative evidence when original documents are unavailable or never existed.
Our experienced attorneys at Altius are adept at navigating these challenges, using our in-depth knowledge of citizenship laws to build strong cases for our clients.
Benefits of Obtaining a Certificate of Citizenship
Having a Certificate of Citizenship offers several advantages:
- Conclusive Proof of Citizenship: Unlike a passport, which is only presumptive evidence, a Certificate of Citizenship provides definitive proof of your U.S. citizenship.
- Permanent Document: Unlike passports, Certificates of Citizenship do not expire.
- Easier Access to Benefits: Simplify the process of obtaining government benefits, jobs, or security clearances that require proof of citizenship.
- Streamlined Passport Applications: Make future passport applications or renewals easier with definitive proof of citizenship.
- Peace of Mind: Eliminate any doubt about your citizenship status, especially if you were born abroad or derived citizenship through your parents.


The Importance of Accurate Documentation
The success of your Certificate of Citizenship application heavily depends on the quality and completeness of your supporting documentation. This may include:
- Your birth certificate
- Your parents’ marriage certificate
- Your parents’ birth certificates or naturalization certificates
- Evidence of your parents’ physical presence in the U.S.
- School records, tax documents, or other proof of residence
At Altius Immigration Law, we meticulously review your documents, identify any gaps, and advise on obtaining additional evidence to strengthen your application.
Secure Your Proof of Citizenship with Altius Immigration Law
Your US citizenship is a fundamental right, and having definitive proof of this status is invaluable. At Altius Immigration Law, we’re committed to helping you obtain your Certificate of Citizenship with confidence and ease.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation for your Certificate of Citizenship application. Our experienced attorneys will review your situation, answer your questions, and develop a tailored strategy to prove your US citizenship.
Let us help you secure this document and the peace of mind it brings. Your journey to confirming your US citizenship starts with a call to Altius Immigration Law.


Check out the benefits of the family green card and immigrating to the USA
The Benefits of the Family-Based Green Card
Obtaining a Green Card through family sponsorship to the USA brings a number of benefits for you and your loved ones:
Family reunion
With a family sponsorship visa, you can build a life together with your family in the United States, strengthening bonds and creating unforgettable memories.
Access to opportunities
The United States offers a wide range of educational, professional, and other opportunities. With a family sponsorship green card, you can take advantage of these benefits.
In addition, the United States is known for its diversity and inclusion, providing a welcoming and receptive environment for people from different backgrounds and cultures. Regardless of where you come from, there is a community for everyone, which makes it easy to adapt and feel at home.
What’s more, the country is renowned for its excellence in various sectors, such as technology, medicine, research, and entrepreneurship, which means you’ll have access to some of the best career opportunities in the world. Whatever your area of interest, the United States offers an environment conducive to personal and professional growth.
Security and stability
The United States is known for its solid legal system and quality infrastructure. By obtaining a family sponsorship green card, you and your loved ones can enjoy security and stability in a new country.
The United States offers many educational opportunities for its citizens. With a family sponsorship green card, your children will have access to a quality education, from elementary school to higher education. Educational institutions in the United States are recognized worldwide for their academic excellence and offer a wide variety of courses and study programs.
Cultural diversity is also an attractive aspect of the United States. By moving to the country on a family sponsorship green card, you will have the opportunity to experience a unique mix of cultures, traditions and experiences. From the vibrant arts and music scene to the internationally renowned cuisine, the United States offers a plethora of possibilities to explore and appreciate different cultures.
In addition, the USA is known for its job opportunities and entrepreneurship. With a family sponsorship green card, you’ll be able to pursue new career opportunities or even start your own business. The country offers a favorable environment for professional and economic growth, enabling you and your family to achieve your goals and prosper in a new country.
- Altius Immigration Law
Simplified Family Sponsorship Green Card Process
At Altius, we are committed to facilitating the process of obtaining your Family-based Green Card. Our team will help you with
1. Initial assessment

2. Collecting documents

3. Preparing the application forms and evidences

4. Preparing for the interview
Read the details of each step below
Frequently Asked Questions
Processing times vary, but typically range from 6 to 12 months. We provide current estimates based on USCIS processing times.
Yes, in many cases you can apply for a U.S. passport as proof of citizenship. However, a Certificate of Citizenship provides more definitive proof and doesn't expire. We can help you decide which option is best for your situation.
Adopted children can acquire U.S. citizenship, but the rules can be complex. We can review your specific adoption circumstances and advise on your eligibility.
Yes, USCIS can deny applications if they believe the evidence doesn't support a claim to citizenship. If denied, we can help you understand the reason and explore options for appeal or reapplication.
Generally, you can apply from outside the U.S., but there may be additional requirements. We can guide you through the process regardless of your current location.
- Lawyer Green Card Family
Benefits of a family-based green card with Altius
Altius’ specialized team has experience in family immigration and is ready to guide you through every step of the process of obtaining a family sponsorship visa for the USA. We know that each case is unique, so we offer customized solutions that suit your individual needs.