QUESTION
How can I get a passport without a citizenship certificate?
Asked on Mar 01st, 2022 on Immigration - Massachusetts
More details to this question:
Hi, I am a naturalized citizen, since 1980. I came here with my parents in 1975. My parents received their citizenship certificates, but I did not, apparently because I was only 15 at the time. I need to get a passport right now. Can I get one without my own citizenship certificate? I heard you can use your father's, is that true? I know I can get a copy of my own certificate sent to me, but that would take too long and is too expensive. Thank you.
1 ANSWER
You are not a naturalized citizen unless you filed form N-400, took the exam, and attended the interview after age eighteen. Instead, you are 'arguably' a derivative citizen. Perhaps, only a permanent resident.
If both of your parents 'naturalized' before your eighteenth birthday, then you will need both certificates. Due to the fear of losing those certificates, you may have to offer up your green card and photocopies of the certificates. If you don't have a green card, you will have a problem!
If you don't have the certificates and only have copies, you really need to file for a citizenship certificate with form N-600. based upon arguable derivative citizenship. Most attorneys, including myself, strongly recommend that you file the N-600 before the certificates are lost. Otherwise, you may never be issued a U.S. Passport, again!
The above is general information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney client relationship.
Answered on Mar 01st, 2022 at 4:34 PM