N 400 Filing Date Calculator

Use our N-400 filing date calculator to determine the correct submission date for Form N-400 (Petition for Alien Relative). This tool helps you understand processing times, filing windows, and important deadlines for your immigration petition.

What is Form N-400?

Form N-400, also known as the Petition for Alien Relative, is an immigration form used to petition for the lawful permanent residence (green card) of a qualifying family member. This form is filed by a US citizen or lawful permanent resident on behalf of their spouse, parent, or unmarried child under 21 years old.

Key points about Form N-400:

Filed by a US citizen or lawful permanent resident
Petitions for spouse, parent, or unmarried child under 21
Requires supporting evidence of the relationship
Processing times vary based on country of chargeability

The form must be filed with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and includes detailed information about the petitioner and the beneficiary. It's important to file this form accurately to avoid delays or denials.

Filing Date Calculation

The filing date for Form N-400 is crucial because it determines when USCIS will begin processing your petition. The exact filing date can be calculated based on several factors, including the country of chargeability and any applicable filing fees.

Formula:

Filing Date = Date of Form Submission + Processing Time (varies by country)

Processing Time = Country-Specific Timeframe (typically 1-12 months)

Our calculator helps you determine the earliest possible filing date by considering the country where the beneficiary last lived and the current processing times. It's important to note that processing times can vary based on USCIS workload and other factors.

Processing Times

USCIS processing times for Form N-400 vary depending on the country of chargeability. The country of chargeability is determined by where the beneficiary last lived before the petition was filed. Here are some general processing timeframes:

Country of Chargeability	Processing Time
Canada, Mexico, or Bermuda	1-3 months
Other Countries	3-12 months

These are approximate times and can change based on USCIS workload. Always check the latest USCIS processing times before filing.

Important Dates to Remember

In addition to the filing date, there are several other important dates to consider when filing Form N-400:

Form Submission Date: The date you submit the completed form to USCIS
Biometrics Appointment: Scheduled after receipt notice, typically within 90 days
Interview Appointment: Scheduled after biometrics, usually within 90 days
Green Card Issuance: After successful processing, typically within 6-12 months

It's crucial to keep track of these dates to ensure your petition moves through the process smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to process Form N-400?

Processing times vary by country of chargeability. Generally, it takes 1-3 months for Canada, Mexico, or Bermuda, and 3-12 months for other countries. Always check the latest USCIS processing times.

Can I file Form N-400 before my spouse's visa is approved?

Yes, you can file Form N-400 before your spouse's visa is approved. This is known as a "concurrent filing" and can help expedite the process.

What documents are required with Form N-400?

Required documents typically include proof of the relationship, passport copies, marriage certificate (if applicable), and evidence of the beneficiary's current status.

Is there a filing fee for Form N-400?

Yes, there is a filing fee for Form N-400. The current fee is $205 for the form and $85 for the biometrics appointment.

What happens if my Form N-400 is denied?

If your Form N-400 is denied, you will receive a notice explaining the reason. You may be able to appeal the decision or file a new petition if you can address the issues that led to the denial.