Do I Have to Show Proof if My Citizenship Paper Got Lost or Taken?

Do I Have to Show Proof if My Citizenship Paper Got Lost or Taken?

You must give documentation of the loss if you're utilizing Form N-565 to obtain a new naturalization or citizenship document because your previous one was stolen, misplaced, or destroyed. Simply put, the USCIS wants to know what occurred and see some proof. Giving them a police report or a sworn statement is often the best course of action.

Getting a Police Report

Contact the local police in the area where your citizenship or naturalization certificate was stolen or lost. Ask how to receive your case's police report. If you can't acquire a police report, provide a written statement.

A Sworn Statement

A sworn statement is a written note of what happened. Think of it as telling your story in writing. Explain the details of when, where, and how your citizenship document got lost, robbed, or damaged.

You don't have to get a sworn statement notarized. When you finish writing it, just add a sentence saying:

N-565 Example of a Sworn Statement

usa-immigrations.com provides this N-565 example of a sworn statement. Make sure to update it to your particular circumstances before sending it in.

Consult the personalized filing instructions for the mailing address of the USCIS, the application fee, and the supporting papers needed to accompany Form N-565.