Your certificate of naturalization number is printed on the document itself

The certificate of naturalization number appears in the upper right corner of your certificate, usually as an eight-digit number. It is also called the certificate number or naturalization number. If you have the physical certificate in front of you, look at the top right of the front side — the number will be there in large print.

If you cannot locate the physical certificate or it is damaged, you can request a replacement or certified copy from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The number itself does not change when you request a replacement; USCIS will issue you a new certificate with the same number.

Key Takeaways

  • The certificate of naturalization number is printed in the upper right corner of the front of your certificate as an eight-digit number.
  • If you have lost your certificate, USCIS can issue a replacement with the same number at no cost if you request it within two years of receiving the original.
  • You can request a replacement certificate by mail using Form N-565 or in person at a USCIS field office.
  • USCIS keeps a record of your naturalization in their system, so you do not need the physical certificate to prove citizenship for most purposes.

How to read the certificate if you have it

Open your certificate and look at the front side. The number you are looking for is in the top right corner, printed in bold type. It is a unique identifier assigned by USCIS when your naturalization was approved. This number stays the same throughout your life and on any replacement certificates you receive.

The certificate also shows your name, date of birth, country of origin, and the date you were naturalized. If you need to verify information on the certificate or confirm the number, you can compare it against any official documents you may have received from USCIS at the time of your naturalization ceremony.

Requesting a replacement certificate from USCIS

If your certificate is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement by submitting Form N-565 (process for Replacement Permanent Resident Card) to USCIS. Despite the form name, it is also used for naturalization certificate replacements. You can file by mail or in person at your local USCIS field office.

There is no fee for a replacement certificate if you request it within two years of receiving your original certificate. After two years, USCIS charges a filing fee. Include a copy of your birth certificate, passport, or other government-issued ID with your process. USCIS will mail your replacement certificate to the address you provide.

Finding your number if you do not have the certificate

If you no longer have your certificate and cannot request a replacement, you can contact USCIS directly to look up your naturalization information. Call the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833). Have your name, date of birth, and country of origin ready when you call.

You can also visit a USCIS field office in person and request a search of their records. Bring a government-issued photo ID and be prepared to wait. Some field offices allow you to schedule an appointment online through the USCIS website, which can reduce wait time.

Using your naturalization number for official purposes

Your naturalization number may be requested on certain government forms, background checks, or when you are explore for a passport or other federal documents. Have the number available when you fill out these forms. If you do not remember it, you can look it up through USCIS or request a certified copy of your certificate.

For most purposes, you do not need the physical certificate itself — a certified copy or a statement from USCIS confirming your naturalization is usually accepted as proof of U.S. citizenship. Government agencies and employers can verify your status through USCIS records even if you do not have the certificate in hand.

What to do if your certificate is damaged or unreadable

If your certificate is water-damaged, faded, or the number is no longer legible, submit Form N-565 to USCIS and explain the damage in a cover letter. Include the damaged certificate with your process if possible, or describe the damage in detail. USCIS will issue a replacement with the same number.

Do not attempt to repair or write over a damaged certificate. Submit it as-is with your replacement request. USCIS will keep the original on file and send you a new one that is valid for all official purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I look up my naturalization number online?

USCIS does not have a public online search tool for naturalization records. You must call 1-800-375-5283, visit a field office in person, or submit a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to obtain your number if you have lost your certificate.

Is my naturalization number the same as my A-number?

No. Your A-number (Alien number) is a separate identifier used during your immigration process. Your naturalization number is assigned only after you become a U.S. citizen. Both numbers may appear on different documents from USCIS.

What if I was naturalized before 1990?

Older certificates may have a different format or number style, but the principle is the same — the number is printed on the front of the certificate. If you cannot read it due to age or damage, contact USCIS for a replacement or certified copy.

Do I need my naturalization number to renew my passport?

No. You do not need your naturalization number to renew a U.S. passport. The State Department will verify your citizenship through other means. However, having it available can speed up the process if requested.