Table of Changes Instructions

TABLE OF CHANGES – INSTRUCTIONS

Form N-470, Instructions for Application to Preserve Residence

for Naturalization Purposes

OMB Number: 1615-0056

05/09/2016

Reason for Revision: Updates to standard language.

Current Page Number and Section	Current Text	Proposed Text
Page 1, What is the Purpose of Form N-470	What is the Purpose of Form N-470 This form is for a permanent resident alien who must leave the United States for certain employment purposes and wishes to preserve his or her continuous residence to pursue naturalization. You may be able to preserve continuous residency (previously accumulated for naturalization purposes) even though you may be residing outside the United States for longer than 1 year. The time spent abroad may be counted toward your residency requirement if you file a Form N-470.	[Page 1] What Is the Purpose of Form N-470? This application is for a lawful permanent resident who must leave the United States for certain employment purposes and wishes to preserve his or her continuous residence to pursue naturalization. You may be able to preserve continuous residency (previously accumulated for naturalization purposes) even though you may be residing outside the United States for longer than one year. The time spent outside the United States may be counted toward your residency requirement if you file Form N-470.
Page 1, Who Should File This Form	Who Should File This Form You should file this form if you meet all of the requirements below: 1. You must have been physically present and residing in the United States for an uninterrupted period, without any absences, for at least 1 year after your admission as a permanent resident (except religious workers); 2. You will be absent from the United States for 1 year or more; 3. You have qualifying employment in a specific job with the U.S. Government, private sector, or religious organization; and 4. You want to preserve your continuous residence for naturalization purposes. If USCIS approves your Form N-470, your spouse and dependent unmarried son(s) or daughter(s) will receive the same benefit. All of them must be members of the same household and reside with you while you reside abroad. NOTE: You must still apply for a reentry permit in advance of trips outside the United States that you expect to last for 1 year or more. Approval of Form N-470 does not exempt applicants from the physical presence requirements for naturalization unless they are employed by, or under contract with the U.S. Government. Continuous residency requirements for Form N-400 Generally, applicants who file a Form N-400 must reside in the United States for 5 years immediately preceding the date of filing. Additionally, USCIS requires applicants to have been physically present in the United States for at least 30 months of those 5 years. NOTE: Qualifying spouses of U.S. citizens who file Form N-400 must reside in the United States for 3 years immediately preceding the date of filing. Those spouses are required to have been physically present in the United States for at least 18 months of those 3 years. Permanent residents who remain outside the United States for more than 1 uninterrupted year will disrupt their residency requirement unless they are the beneficiaries of an approved Form N-470. Exception for spouse of U.S. Citizen employed by the U.S. Government, American institution of research, or an American firm engaged in development of foreign trade with the United States A spouse of a U.S. citizen who is eligible for naturalization under Section 319(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) is not required to file Form N-470 to preserve continuous residence, as such spouses are exempted from establishing the naturalization residency and physical presence requirements.	[Page 1] Who May File Form N-470? You should file this application if you meet all of the requirements below: 1. You must have been physically present and residing in the United States for an uninterrupted period, without any absences, for at least one year after your admission as a lawful permanent resident (except religious workers); 2. You will be absent from the United States for one year or more; 3. You have qualifying employment in a specific job with the U.S. Government, private sector, or religious organization; and 4. You want to preserve your continuous residence for naturalization purposes. If U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) approves your Form N-470, your spouse and dependent unmarried sons or daughters will receive the same benefit. All of them must be members of the same household and reside with you while you reside outside the United States. NOTE: You must still apply for a reentry permit in advance of trips outside the United States that you expect to last for one year or more. Approval of Form N-470 does not exempt applicants from the physical presence requirements for naturalization unless they are employed by, or under contract with the U.S. Government. Continuous residency requirements for Form N-400 Generally, applicants who file Form N-400 must reside in the United States for five years immediately preceding the date of filing. Additionally, USCIS requires applicants to have been physically present in the United States for at least 30 months of those 5 years. NOTE: Qualifying spouses of U.S. citizens who file Form N-400 must reside in the United States for three years immediately preceding the date of filing. Those spouses are required to have been physically present in the United States for at least 18 months of those 3 years. Lawful permanent residents who remain outside the United States for more than one uninterrupted year will disrupt their residency requirement unless they are the beneficiaries of an approved Form N-470. Exception for spouse of U.S. citizen employed by the U.S. Government, American institution of research, or an American firm engaged in development of foreign trade with the United States. A spouse of a U.S. citizen who is eligible for naturalization under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) section 319(b) is not required to file Form N-470 to preserve continuous residence, as such spouses are exempted from establishing the naturalization residency and physical presence requirements.
Page 1, General Instructions	General Instructions Copies. You may submit copies of documents unless USCIS requests original documents. Original documents submitted when not required may remain a part of the record. Translations. You must provide a full English translation for any document written in a foreign language you submit to USCIS. The translator must certify that the translation is complete and accurate and that he or she is competent to translate from the foreign language into English. 1. Type or print clearly using black ink. Keep all information within the area provided. If extra space is needed to answer any question, attach an additional sheet(s) of paper. You must provide the following information on the top of each sheet of paper: A. Your Alien Registration Number (A-Number); B. The date; C. Question number; and D. Your signature. 2. Answer all questions fully and accurately. Write “N/A” if an item is not applicable. Write “None” if the answer is none. 3. Avoid highlighting, crossing out, or writing outside the area provided for a response. If you must make substantial corrections to your Form N-470, USCIS recommends that you begin with a new Form N-470 rather than using correction tape or fluid to white out information. USCIS scanners may see through the white correction tape or fluid. This may lead to incorrect information being captured in USCIS systems which may cause processing delays or a rejection of your Form N-470. Ensure that you are using the correct edition of the Form N-470. The correct edition is available on the USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov. 4. Provide your A-Number on the top right corner of each page. Your A-Number is located on your Permanent Resident Card (formerly known as the Alien Registration or “Green” Card). The A-Number on your card consists of seven to nine numbers, depending on when your record was created. If the A-Number on your card has fewer than nine numbers, place enough zeros before the first number to make a total of nine numbers on the Form N-470. For example, write number A1234567 as A001234567 or write number A12345678 as A012345678. You must provide your A-Number. USCIS may reject your application if you do not provide your A-Number.	[Page 2] General Instructions USCIS provides forms free of charge through the USCIS Web site. In order to view, print, or fill out our forms, you should use the latest version of Adobe Reader, which you can download for free at http://get.adobe.com/reader/. If you do not have Internet access, you may call the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283 and ask that we mail a form to you. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833. Signature. Each application must be properly signed and filed. For all signatures on this application, USCIS will not accept a stamped or typewritten name in place of a signature. If you are under 14 years of age, your parent or legal guardian may sign the application on your behalf. A legal guardian may also sign for a mentally incompetent person. Filing Fee. Each application must be accompanied by the appropriate filing fee. (See the What Is the Filing Fee section of these Instructions.) Biometric Services Fee. If you file this application with USCIS, you do not need to include a biometric services fee at the time you submit your application. If you are later notified that you must submit biometrics, you will receive a biometric services appointment notice with instructions on how to submit the additional biometric services fee. If you file this application with an agency other than USCIS, please check with that agency to determine if and when you must submit a biometric services fee. Evidence. At the time of filing, you must submit all evidence and supporting documentation listed in the Specific Instructions and/or What Evidence Must You Submit sections of these Instructions. Biometric Services Appointment. USCIS may require that you appear for an interview or provide fingerprints, photograph, and/or signature at any time to verify your identity, obtain additional information, and conduct background and security checks, including a check of criminal history records maintained by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), before making a decision on your application, petition, or request. After USCIS receives your application and ensures it is complete, we will inform you in writing, if you need to attend a biometric services appointment. If an appointment is necessary, the notice will provide you the location of your local or designated USCIS Application Support Center (ASC) and the date and time of your appointment or, if you are currently overseas, instruct you to contact a U.S. Embassy, U.S. Consulate, or USCIS office outside the United States to set up an appointment. If you are required to provide biometrics, at your appointment you must sign an oath reaffirming that: 1. You provided or authorized all information in the application; 2. You reviewed and understood all of the information contained in, and submitted with, your application; and 3. All of this information was complete, true, and correct at the time of filing. If you fail to attend your biometric services appointment, USCIS may deny your application. Copies. You may submit legible photocopies of documents requested, unless the Instructions specifically state that you must submit an original document. USCIS may request an original document at the time of filing or at any time during processing of an application, petition, or request. If you submit original documents when not required, the documents may remain a part of the record, and USCIS will not automatically return them to you. Translations. If you submit a document with information in a foreign language, you must also submit a full English translation. The translator must sign a certification that the English language translation is complete and accurate, and that he or she is competent to translate from the foreign language into English. The certification should also include the date, the translator’s signature and printed name, and may contain the translator’s contact information. How To Fill Out Form N-470 1. Type or print legibly in black ink. 2. If you need extra space to complete any item within this application, use the space provided in Part 7. Additional Information or attach a separate sheet of paper; type or print your name and Alien Registration Number (A-Number) (if any) at the top of each sheet; indicate the Page Number, Part Number, and Item Number to which your answer refers; and sign and date each sheet. 3. Answer all questions fully and accurately. If a question does not apply to you (for example, if you have never been married and the question asks “Provide the name of your current spouse”), type or print “N/A,” unless otherwise directed. If your answer to a question which requires a numeric response is zero or none (for example, “How many children do you have” or “How many times have you departed the United States”), type or print “None,” unless otherwise directed. [Page 4] 4. Avoid highlighting, crossing out, or writing outside the area provided for a response. If you must make substantial corrections to your Form N-470, USCIS recommends that you begin with a new Form N-470 rather than using correction tape or fluid to white out information. USCIS scanners may see through the white correction tape or fluid. This may lead to incorrect information being captured in USCIS systems which may cause processing delays or a rejection of your Form N-470. Ensure that you are using the correct edition of Form N-470. The correct edition is available on the USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov. 5. Provide your A-Number on the top right corner of each page. Your A-Number is located on your Permanent Resident Card (formerly known as the Alien Registration or “Green” Card.) The A-Number on your card consists of seven to nine numbers, depending on when your record was created. If the A-Number on your card has fewer than nine numbers, place enough zeros before the first number to make a total of nine numbers on the Form N-470. For example, type or print number A1234567 as A001234567 or type or print number A12345678 as A012345678. You must provide your A-Number. USCIS may reject your application if you do not provide your A-Number.
Page 2, Specific Instructions	Specific Instructions This form is divided into five parts. Part 1. Information About Your Eligibility Check the box that shows why you are eligible to apply to preserve residence for naturalization purposes. Part 2. Information About You 1. Current Legal Name. Your current legal name is the name on your birth certificate unless it has been changed after birth by a legal action such as a marriage or court order. Do not provide a nickname. 2. Your name exactly as it appears on your Permanent Resident Card (if different from above). Write your name exactly as it appears on your card even if it is misspelled. 3. U.S. Social Security Number. Print your U.S. Social Security Number. Write “N/A” if you do not have one. 4. Date of Birth. Always use eight numbers to show your date of birth. Write the date in this order: Month, Day, Year. For example, write May 1, 1958, as 05/01/1958. 5. Country of Birth. Provide the name of the country where you were born. Write the name of the country even if the country's name has since changed or the country no longer exists. 6. Country of Nationality. Provide the name of the country(ies) where you are currently a citizen or national. A. If the country no longer exists or you are stateless, write the name of the country where you were last a citizen or national. B. If you are a citizen or national of more than one country, write the name of the country that issued your last passport that you currently use to travel. 7. Home address. Provide the address where you now reside. Do not write your Post Office (P.O.) Box number here unless it is your ONLY address. If you reside outside the United States If you do not have a State or Province, enter the name of your city again in that box. If you do not have a ZIP or Postal Code, enter 00000 in the ZIP or Postal Code box. 8. Mailing Address. Provide your mailing address even if it is the same as your home address. Provide "in care of name" information, if applicable. You must write something in every box, except an apartment number or “C/O” if you do not have one, within “Mailing Address.” NOTE: USCIS may not be able to contact you if you do not provide a complete and valid address. If USCIS rejects your application, USCIS may not be able to return the fee for the Form N-470 to you if you do not write a complete and valid address. If USCIS cannot return the fee, USCIS will cash your check. 11. Date You Became a Permanent Resident. Provide the official date when your permanent residence began, as shown on your Permanent Resident Card. Write the date in this order: Month, Day, Year. For example, write August 9, 1988, as 08/09/1988. USCIS may reject your application if you do not provide the information. 12. Uninterrupted Residence in the United States. Check the box to indicate if you have, or have not, resided in and been physically present in the United States for an uninterrupted period of at least 1 year since your admission as a permanent resident. 13. Time Outside the United States. List below all the trips of 24 hours or more that you have taken outside the United States since you became a permanent resident. Include trips to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Begin with your most recent trip. If you need more space, use an additional sheet(s) of paper. 14. Employment Position and Length of Employment. Provide an explanation of your employment position requiring you to be absent from the United States. Also state the intended length of time you will be employed when absent from the United States. If you are a religious worker filing the N-470 after your return to the United States from abroad, please provide the entire length of time of your employment outside the United States in said capacity. 15. Income Tax. Check the box to indicate if you have, or have not, ever filed an income tax return as a nonresident or otherwise claimed or received benefits as a nonresident alien under U.S. Federal, State, or local income tax laws since you became a permanent resident. Part 3. Information About Family Members Who Reside With You 1. Residence With You Inside the United States. Check the box to indicate whether you have permanent resident family members who reside with you inside the United States. 2. Residence With You Outside the United States. Check the box to indicate whether those permanent resident family members will reside with you outside the United States. If you check “Yes,” provide information for your spouse and all of your children who will reside with you outside the United States. Part 4. Your Signature Sign the Form N-470 as you normally sign your name. You may place an “X” mark instead of a signature if you are unable to write in any language. NOTE: USCIS will reject your Form N-470 if it is not signed 9. Telephone Numbers. Provide your current telephone numbers. If the answer is none, write “None.” If you are hearing impaired and use a TTY telephone connection, please indicate this by writing "TTY" after the telephone number. 10. E-Mail Address. Provide your current e-mail address. If you do not have one, write “None.” Part 5. Signature of Person Who Prepared Form N-470 for You (if applicable) If you prepared this application by yourself, leave this section blank. If someone filled out this application for you, he or she must complete this section.	[Page 3] Specific Instructions This application is divided into seven parts. Part 1. Information About Your Eligibility Item Numbers 1. - 6. Select the box that shows why you are eligible to apply to preserve residence for naturalization purposes. Part 2. Information About You Item Number 1. Current Legal Name. Your current legal name is the name on your birth certificate unless it has been changed after birth by a legal action such as a marriage or court order. Do not provide a nickname. Item Number 2. Other Names Used (if any). List all other names you have ever used, including aliases, maiden name, and nicknames. If you need extra space to complete this section, use the space provided in Part 7. Additional Information. Item Number 3. Your name exactly as it appears on your Permanent Resident Card (if different from above). Type or print your name exactly as it appears on your card even if it is misspelled. Item Number 4. USCIS Online Account Number (if any). If you have previously filed an application, petition, or request using the USCIS online filing system (previously called USCIS Electronic Immigration System (USCIS ELIS)), provide the USCIS Online Account Number you were issued by the system. You can find your USCIS Online Account Number by logging in to your account and going to the profile page. If you previously filed certain applications, petitions, or requests on a paper form via a USCIS Lockbox facility, you may have received a USCIS Online Account Access Notice issuing you a USCIS Online Account Number. If you received such a notice, your USCIS Online Account Number can be found at the top of the notice. If you were issued a USCIS Online Account Number, enter it in the space provided. The USCIS Online Account Number is not the same as an A-Number. Item Number 5. U.S. Social Security Number. Provide your U.S. Social Security Number. Type or print “N/A” if you do not have one. Item Number 6. Date of Birth. Always use eight numbers to show your date of birth. Type or print the date in this order: Month, Day, Year. For example, type or print May 1, 1958, as 05/01/1958. Item Number 7. Country of Birth. Provide the name of the country where you were born. Type or print the name of the country even if the country’s name has since changed or the country no longer exists. Item Number 8. Country of Citizenship or Nationality. Provide the name of the country where you are currently a citizen or national. If the country no longer exists or you are stateless, type or print the name of the country where you were last a citizen or national. If you are a citizen or national of more than one country, type or print the name of the country that issued your last passport that you currently use to travel. Item Number 9. Physical Address. Provide the address where you now reside. Do not type or print your Post Office (PO) Box number here unless it is your ONLY address. [Page 4] If you reside outside the United States If you do not have a State or Province, enter the name of your city again in that box. If you do not have a ZIP or Postal Code, enter 00000 in the ZIP or Postal Code box. Item Number 10. Mailing Address. Provide your mailing address even if it is the same as your home address. Provide “In Care Of Name” information, if applicable. You must type or print something in every box, except an apartment number or “In Care Of Name” if you do not have one, within “Mailing Address.” NOTE: USCIS may not be able to contact you if you do not provide a complete and valid address. If USCIS rejects your application, USCIS may not be able to return the filing fee for Form N-470 to you if you do not type or print a complete and valid address. If USCIS cannot return the filing fee, USCIS will cash your check. Item Number 11. Date You Became a Lawful Permanent Resident. Provide the official date when your lawful permanent residence began, as shown on your Permanent Resident Card. Type or print the date in this order: Month, Day, Year. For example, type or print August 9, 1988, as 08/09/1988. USCIS may reject your application if you do not provide the information. Item Number 12. Uninterrupted Residence in the United States. Select the box to indicate if you have, or have not, resided in and been physically present in the United States for an uninterrupted period of at least one year since your admission as a lawful permanent resident. Item Number 13. Time Outside the United States. Provide all the trips of 24 hours or more that you have taken outside the United States since you became a lawful permanent resident. Include trips to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Begin with your most recent trip. If you need extra space to complete this section, use the space provided in Part 7. Additional Information. Item Number 14. Employment Position and Length of Employment. Provide an explanation of your employment position requiring you to be absent from the United States. Also state the intended length of time you will be employed when absent from the United States. If you are a religious worker filing Form N-470 after your return to the United States from outside the United States, provide the entire length of time of your employment outside the United States in said capacity. Item Number 15. Income Tax. Select the box to indicate if you have, or have not, ever filed an income tax return as a nonresident or otherwise claimed or received benefits as a nonresident alien under U.S. Federal, state, or local income tax laws since you became a lawful permanent resident. Part 3. Information About Family Members Who Reside With You Item Number 1. Residence With You Inside the United States. Select the box to indicate whether you have lawful permanent resident family members who reside with you inside the United States. Item Number 2. Residence With You Outside the United States. Select the box to indicate whether those lawful permanent resident family members will reside with you outside the United States. If you select “Yes,” provide information for your spouse and all of your children who will reside with you outside the United States. [Page 4] Part 4. Applicant’s Statement, Contact Information, Certification, and Signature Item Numbers 1. - 6. Select the appropriate box to indicate whether you read this application yourself or whether you had an interpreter assist you. If someone assisted you in completing the application, select the box indicating that you used a preparer. Further, you must sign and date your application and provide your daytime telephone number, mobile telephone number (if any), and email address (if any). Every application MUST contain the signature of the applicant (or parent or legal guardian, if applicable). A stamped or typewritten name in place of a signature is not acceptable. [Delete] [Delete] [Delete] Part 5. Interpreter’s Contact Information, Certification, and Signature Item Numbers 1. - 7. If you used anyone as an interpreter to read the Instructions and questions on this application to you in a language in which you are fluent, the interpreter must fill out this section, provide his or her name, the name and address of his or her business or organization (if any), his or her daytime telephone number, his or her mobile telephone number (if any), and his or her email address (if any). The interpreter must sign and date the application. [Page 5] Part 6. Contact Information, Declaration, and Signature of the Person Preparing this Application, if Other Than the Applicant Item Numbers 1. - 8. This section must contain the signature of the person who completed your application, if other than you, the applicant. If the same individual acted as your interpreter and your preparer, that person should complete both Part 5. and Part 6. If the person who completed this application is associated with a business or organization, that person should complete the business or organization name and address information. Anyone who helped you complete this application MUST sign and date the application. A stamped or typewritten name in place of a signature is not acceptable. If the person who helped you prepare your application is an attorney or accredited representative whose representation extends beyond preparation of this of this application, he or she may be obliged to also submit a completed Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, along with your application. [Page 6] Part 7. Additional Information Item Numbers 1. - 6. If you need extra space to provide any additional information within this application, use the space provided in Part 7. Additional Information. If you need more space than what is provided in Part 7., you may make copies of Part 7. to complete and file with your application, or attach a separate sheet of paper. Type or print your name and A-Number (if any) at the top of each sheet; indicate the Page Number, Part Number, and Item Number to which your answer refers; and sign and date each sheet. We recommend that you print or save a copy of your completed application to review in the future and for your records.
[NEW]		What Evidence Must You Submit? You must submit all evidence requested in these Instructions with your application. If you fail to submit required evidence, USCIS may reject or deny your application for failure to submit requested evidence or supporting documents in accordance with 8 CFR 103.2(b)(1) and these Instructions.
Page 3, When to File	When to File 1. Generally, you must have been physically present and residing in the United States for an uninterrupted period, without any absences, for at least 1 year after your admission as a permanent resident before you can file Form N-470. 2. You do not have to be in the United States to file Form N-470, but you must file it before you have been absent from the United States for a continuous period of 1 year. Religious Workers Exception to the 1 Year Absence Requirement Religious workers may apply: 1. Before departing from the United States; 2. After departing from the United States; or 3. After returning to the United States. Religious workers are not required to have lived in the United States for a specific period of time prior to filing Form N-470.	[Page 6] When to File Form N-470? 1. Generally, you must have been physically present and residing in the United States for an uninterrupted period, without any absences, for at least one year after your admission as a lawful permanent resident before you can file Form N-470. 2. You do not have to be in the United States to file Form N-470, but you must file it before you have been absent from the United States for a continuous period of one year. Religious Workers Exception to the One Year Absence Requirement [No Change] [No Change]
Page 4, What Is the Filing Fee	What Is the Filing Fee The filing fee for Form N-470 is $330. Use the following guidelines when you prepare your check or money order for your Form N-470 fee: 1. The check or money order must be drawn on a bank or other financial institution located in the Unites States and must be payable in U.S. currency; and 2. Make the check or money order payable to U.S. Department of Homeland Security. NOTE: Spell out U.S. Department of Homeland Security; do not write the initials “USDHS” or “DHS." 3. If you live outside the United States, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate for instructions on the method of payment. Notice To Those Making Payment by Check USCIS will make a copy and convert your original check into an electronic funds transfer (EFT). This means USCIS will use the account information on your check to electronically debit your account for the check amount. This debit usually takes 24 hours and should show up on your regular account statement. USCIS will not return your original check. USCIS will destroy it and keep a copy with your file. If the EFT cannot be processed due to technical reasons, you authorize USCIS to process the copy of the check. If the EFT cannot be completed because of insufficient funds, USCIS may try the EFT up to two times. If you receive an insufficient funds notice, USCIS will send you instructions on how to submit your penalty fee. Do not send a check for the penalty fee to the address where you filed your Form N-470. It will be returned to you. How To Check If the Fees Are Correct The fee on Form N-470 is current as of the edition date appearing in the lower right corner of this page. However, because USCIS fees change periodically, you can verify if the fees are correct by following one of the steps below. 1. Visit our Web site at www.uscis.gov, select "FORMS," and check the appropriate fee; 2. Telephone the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283 and ask for the fee information. For TDD (hearing impaired) call: 1-800-767-1833. Fee Waiver Request Individuals may request a fee waiver based on an inability to pay. Form I-912 provides a standard means for submitting fee waiver requests. The instructions provide applicants with guidance on properly completing Form I-912 and submitting supporting documentation. The instructions also give information on how USCIS makes a decision on a fee waiver request. To download a copy of Form I-912, including the instructions, click on the “FORMS” link on the USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov. Re-filing Form N-470 If USCIS denied your previously filed Form N-470 and you are filing a new Form N-470, you must pay the full amount. Otherwise, USCIS will not accept your Form N-470. USCIS cannot apply a previously submitted filing fee amount to a newly filed Form N-470.	[Page 6] What Is the Filing Fee? The filing fee for Form N-470 is $330. NOTE: The filing fee is not refundable, regardless of any action USCIS takes on this application. DO NOT MAIL CASH. You must submit all fees in the exact amounts. Use the following guidelines when you prepare your check or money order for the Form N-470 filing fee: 1. The check or money order must be drawn on a bank or other financial institution located in the United States and must be payable in U.S. currency; and 2. Make the check or money order payable to U.S. Department of Homeland Security. NOTE: Spell out U.S. Department of Homeland Security; do not use the initials “USDHS” or “DHS.” [Page 7] 3. If you live outside the United States, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or U.S. Consulate for instructions on the method of payment. Notice to Those Making Payment by Check. If you send us a check, USCIS will convert it into an electronic funds transfer (EFT). This means we will copy your check and use the account information on it to electronically debit your account for the amount of the check. The debit from your account will usually take 24 hours and your bank will show it on your regular account statement. You will not receive your original check back. We will destroy your original check, but will keep a copy of it. If USCIS cannot process the EFT for technical reasons, you authorize us to process the copy in place of your original check. If USCIS cannot complete the EFT because of insufficient funds, we may try to make the transfer two additional times. How To Check If the Fees Are Correct Form N-470’s filing fee is current as of the edition date in the lower left corner of this page. However, because USCIS fees change periodically, you can verify that the fees are correct by following one of the steps below. 1. Visit the USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov, select “FORMS,” and check the appropriate fee; or 2. Call the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283 and ask for fee information. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833. NOTE: If your Form N-470 requires payment of a biometric services fee for USCIS to take your fingerprints, photograph, and/or signature, you can use the same procedure to obtain the correct biometric services fee. Fee Waiver You may be eligible for a fee waiver under 8 CFR 103.7(c). If you believe you are eligible for a fee waiver, complete Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver (or a written request) and submit it and any required evidence of your inability to pay the filing fee with this application. You can review the fee waiver guidance at www.uscis.gov/feewaiver. Re-filing Form N-470 If USCIS denied your previously filed Form N-470 and you are filing a new Form N-470, you must pay the full filing fee. Otherwise, USCIS will not accept your Form N-470. USCIS cannot apply a previously submitted filing fee amount to a newly filed Form N-470.
Page 4, Where To File	Where To File Mail your completed Form N-470 and accompanying documentation to the USCIS Dallas Lockbox facility at the following address: USCIS PO Box 650809 Dallas, TX, 75265 For Express Mail or commercial courier deliveries, use the following address: USCIS Attn: Form N-470 2501 S. State Highway, 121 Business Suite 400 Lewisville, TX, 75067 E-Notification If you are filing your Form N-470 at one of the USCIS Lockbox facilities, you may elect to receive an e-mail and/or text message notifying you that your Form N-470 has been accepted. You must complete Form G-1145, E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance, and attach it to the first page of your Form N-470. To download a copy of Form G-1145, including the instructions, click on the “FORMS” link on the USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov. Form Revision and Filing Addresses The filing addresses provided on this form reflect the most current information as of the date this form was last printed. If you are filing Form N-470 more than 30 days after the latest edition date shown in the lower right corner, please visit the USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov before you file, and check the “FORMS” page to confirm the correct filing address and version currently in use. Check the edition date located at the lower right corner of the form. If the edition date on your Form N-470 matches the edition date listed for Form N-470 on the online “FORMS” page, your version is current. If the edition date on the online version is more recent, download a copy and use it. If you do not have Internet access, call the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283 to verify the current filing address and edition date. For TDD (hearing impaired) call: 1-800-767-1833. USCIS will reject forms with the wrong revision date and return the fee with instructions to resubmit the entire filing using the current form.	[Page 7] Where To File? Please see our Web site at www.uscis.gov/N-470 or call our National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283 for the most current information about where to file this application. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833. [Deleted] [Deleted] [Deleted] [Deleted] [Deleted]
Page 5, Address Changes	Address Changes If you have changed your address, you must inform USCIS of your new address. For information on filing a change of address go to the USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov/ addresschange or contact the National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283. For TDD (hearing impaired) call: 1-800-767-1833. NOTE: Do not submit a change of address request to the USCIS Lockbox facilities because the USCIS Lockbox facilities do not process change of address requests.	[Page 7] Address Change An applicant who is not a U.S. citizen must notify USCIS of his or her new address within 10 days of moving from his or her previous residence.  For information on filing a change of address, go to the USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov/addresschange or contact the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283.   For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call:  1-800-767-1833. NOTE:  Do not submit a change of address request to the USCIS Lockbox facilities because the Lockbox does not process change of address requests.
Page3, Processing Information	Processing Information Any Form N-470 that is not signed or accompanied by the correct fee, except those accompanied by a fee waiver request (Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver), will be rejected. A Form N-470 that is not completed according to these instructions, is missing pages or otherwise not executed in its entirety, or is not accompanied by the required initial evidence may be rejected or delayed. If USCIS rejects your Form N-470 for any of the reasons above, the form and any fees will be returned to you if you provided a complete and valid mailing address. You will be notified why the form is considered deficient. You may correct the deficiency and refile Form N-470. An application or petition is not considered properly filed until accepted by USCIS. Requests for More Information or Interview USCIS may request more information or evidence. USCIS may also request that you submit the originals of any copies you previously provided to USCIS with your Form N-470. In addition, USCIS may request that you appear for an interview Decision The decision on Form N-470 involves a determination of whether you have established eligibility for the requested benefit. If you do not establish a basis for eligibility, USCIS will deny your Form N-470. You will be notified of the decision in writing.	[Page 8] Processing Information Initial Processing. Once USCIS accepts your application we will check it for completeness. If you do not completely fill out this application, you will not establish a basis for your eligibility and USCIS may reject or deny your application. Requests for More Information. We may request that you provide more information or evidence to support your application. We may also request that you provide the originals of any copies you submit. USCIS will return any requested originals when they are no longer needed. Requests for Interview. We may request that you appear at a USCIS office for an interview based on your application. At the time of any interview or other appearance at a USCIS office, we may require that you provide your fingerprints, photograph, and/or signature to verify your identity and/or update background and security checks. Decision. The decision on Form N-470 involves a determination of whether you have established eligibility for the immigration benefit you are seeking. USCIS will notify you of the decision in writing.
Page 5, USCIS Forms and Information	USCIS Forms and Information To ensure you are using the latest version of this form, visit the USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov where you can obtain the latest USCIS forms and immigration-related information. If you do not have internet access, you may order USCIS forms by calling our toll-free number at 1-800-870-3676. You may also obtain forms and information by telephoning our USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283. For TDD (hearing impaired) call: 1-800-767-1833. You can schedule an appointment to meet with a USCIS representative at your local USCIS office through the USCIS Internet-based system, InfoPass. To access the system, visit the USCIS Web site. Use the InfoPass appointment scheduler and follow the screen prompts to set up your appointment. InfoPass generates an electronic appointment notice that appears on the screen.	[Page 8] USCIS Forms and Information To ensure you are using the latest version of this application, visit the USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov where you can obtain the latest USCIS forms and immigration-related information. If you do not have Internet access, you may order USCIS forms by calling the Forms Request Line at 1-800-870-3676. You may also obtain forms and information by calling the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833. Instead of waiting in line for assistance at your local USCIS office, you can schedule an appointment online at www.uscis.gov. Select “Schedule an appointment online” and follow the screen prompts to set up your appointment. Once you finish scheduling an appointment, the system will generate an appointment notice for you.
Page 5, Attorney or Representative	Attorney or Representative You may be represented, at no expense to the U.S. Government, by an attorney or other duly accredited representative. Your representative must submit Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Representative, with your Form N-470. If USCIS requests you to appear for an interview, your representative may also submit the Form G-28 at that time. Form G-28 can be obtained by visiting the USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov, calling the USCIS forms line number at 1-800-870-3676, or by contacting the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283. For TDD (hearing impaired) call: 1-800-767-1833.	[Page 8] Attorney or Representative You may be represented, at no expense to the U.S. Government, by an attorney or other duly accredited representative. Your representative must submit Form G-28, Notice of Entry of Appearance as Attorney or Accredited Representative, with your Form N-470. If USCIS requests you to appear for an interview, your representative may also submit Form G-28 at that time. Form G-28 can be obtained by visiting the USCIS Web site at www.uscis.gov, calling the Forms Request Line at 1-800-870-3676, or by contacting the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283. For TTY (deaf or hard of hearing) call: 1-800-767-1833.
Page 5, Penalties	Penalties If you knowingly and willfully falsify or conceal a material fact or submit a false document with this Form N-470, USCIS will deny your Form N-470 and may deny any other immigration benefit. In addition, you may be subject to criminal prosecution and penalties provided by law.	[Page 8] Penalties If you knowingly and willfully falsify or conceal a material fact or submit a false document with your Form N-470, we will deny your Form N-470 and may deny any other immigration benefit. In addition, you will face severe penalties provided by law and may be subject to criminal prosecution.
Page 5, USCIS Privacy Act Statement	USCIS Privacy Act Statement AUTHORITIES: The information requested on this form, and the associated evidence, is collected under the Immigration and Nationality Act, section 101, et seq. PURPOSE: The primary purpose for providing the requested information on this form is to determine if you have established eligibility for the immigration benefit for which you are filing. The information you provide will be used to grant or deny the benefit sought. DISCLOSURE: The information you provide is voluntary. However, failure to provide the requested information, and any requested evidence, may delay a final decision or result in denial of your form. ROUTINE USES: The information you provide on this form may be shared with other Federal, State, local, and foreign government agencies and authorized organizations following approved routine uses described in the associated published system of records notices [DHS-USCIS-007 - Benefits Information System and DHS-USCIS-001 - Alien File, Index, and National Filed Tracking System of Records, which can be found at www.dhs.gov/privacy]. The information may also be made available, as appropriate, for law enforcement purposes or in the interest of national security.	[Page 8] USCIS Privacy Act Statement AUTHORITIES: The information requested on this application, and the associated evidence, is collected under the Immigration and Nationality Act, section 101. [Page 9] PURPOSE: The primary purpose for providing the requested information on this application is to determine if you have established eligibility for the immigration benefit for which you are filing. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will use the information you provide to grant or deny the immigration benefit you are seeking. DISCLOSURE: The information you provide is voluntary. However, failure to provide the requested information, and any requested evidence, may delay a final decision in your case or result in denial of your application. ROUTINE USES: DHS may share the information you provide on this application with other Federal, state, local, and foreign government agencies and authorized organizations. DHS follows approved routine uses described in the associated published system of records notices [DHS/USCIS-007 - Benefits Information System and DHS/USCIS-001- Alien File, Index, and National File Tracking System of Records] which you can find at www.dhs.gov/privacy. DHS may also share the information, as appropriate, for law enforcement purposes or in the interest of national security.
Page 6, Paperwork Reduction Act	Paperwork Reduction Act An agency may not conduct or sponsor an information collection, and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. The public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated at 36 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions and completing and submitting the form. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden to: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Regulatory Coordination Division, Office of Policy and Strategy, 20 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20529-2140; OMB No 1615-0056. Do not mail your completed Form N-470 to this address.	[Page 9] Paperwork Reduction Act An agency may not conduct or sponsor an information collection, and a person is not required to respond to a collection of information, unless it displays a currently valid Office of Management and Budget (OMB) control number. The public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated at 36 minutes per response including the time for reviewing instructions, gathering the required documentation and information, completing the application, preparing statements, attaching necessary documentation, and submitting the application. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Regulatory Coordination Division, Office of Policy and Strategy, 20 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20529-2140; OMB No. 1615-0056. Do not mail your completed Form N-470 to this address.

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