B. How to Prove Your U.s. Citizenship

• Library: Becoming a U.S. Citizen (Nolo) (2021 Ed.)

B. How to Prove Your U.S. Citizenship

At the end of your swearing-in ceremony, the judge or USCIS officer will call you up to receive your Naturalization Certificate or "N-550"—a document that looks like a college diploma and is more suitable for framing than for carrying around. You might be asked to sign it in front of a USCIS or court official (if you're changing your name, don't forget to use the new one).

Before you hang your certificate on the wall, however, make photocopies in case you want to help other family members immigrate. You'll need to send copies to USCIS with the visa petitions you submit for them. Copying the certificate for any...