Fill out N-565 (Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document) online
Form N-565 is used to apply for a replacement Certificate of Citizenship or Certificate of Naturalization that has been lost, destroyed, damaged, or contains errors. It can also be used to request a name change on the certificate following a legal name change.
How to fill out N-565 (Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document)
Determine the reason for your request
Select the reason you are requesting a replacement: lost, destroyed, damaged, contains an error, or legal name change. The supporting evidence required varies by reason.
Enter your personal information
Provide your full legal name, date of birth, A-Number, and the details from your original certificate (certificate number, date of issuance, and issuing court or USCIS office if known).
Gather supporting evidence
For a damaged certificate: include the damaged original. For a name change: include a certified copy of the court order. For errors: provide evidence of the correct information (birth certificate, passport, etc.).
Submit the application
File online or by mail with the filing fee, supporting evidence, and a passport-style photograph. Include copies of your government-issued ID and any documentation supporting the reason for replacement.
About N-565 (Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document)
Who needs this form
U.S. citizens who have lost, damaged, or need to correct their Certificate of Naturalization (Form N-550) or Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-560). Also used by citizens who legally changed their name and need an updated certificate.
Where to submit
File with USCIS online at uscis.gov or by mail to the appropriate USCIS lockbox facility. Processing times vary. Expedited processing may be available in limited circumstances.
Source and content freshness
- Reviewed: 2026-02-16
- Filing deadlines may shift for weekends and holidays. Verify due dates with official instructions.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not reporting the loss to local law enforcement before applying for a replacement (recommended but not required)
- Not including a copy of the damaged certificate when requesting a replacement for damage
- Filing N-565 when N-600 would be more appropriate (N-600 is for original certificates, N-565 is for replacements)
- Not including a certified copy of the legal name change order when requesting a name correction
Frequently asked questions
Is this form free to fill out?
Yes. SimplePDF lets you fill out any PDF form for free, directly in your browser. No account required. For team and business features, see our pricing plans.
Do I need to create an account?
No. You can fill out and download the form without creating an account or signing up.
Is my data secure?
SimplePDF is not a covered entity under HIPAA. Documents are processed entirely in the user's browser and never transit via SimplePDF's servers, on any plan. Read our privacy policy for more details.
Is this legal, tax, or immigration advice?
No. SimplePDF provides form-filling tools and general informational content, not professional advice. Verify requirements with official instructions or a qualified professional.
Can I share a direct link to this form?
Yes! You can create a direct link to any PDF by prefixing its URL with simplepdf.com/. For example: simplepdf.com/https://example.com/form.pdf. Anyone who opens the link can fill out the form immediately in their browser. You can also embed the editor in your own website.
Can I use my U.S. passport instead of replacing my naturalization certificate?
A valid U.S. passport serves as proof of U.S. citizenship for most purposes (travel, employment verification, Social Security). If your naturalization certificate is lost but you have a valid passport, you may not need to replace the certificate. However, some situations (certain government applications, specific legal proceedings) may require the certificate itself.
SimplePDF provides a tool to fill out PDF forms. We are not affiliated with any government agency or form issuer. It is your responsibility to verify the accuracy and completeness of any information entered. SimplePDF is not liable for errors, omissions, or consequences resulting from the use of filled-out forms.