Filing N-400 - but have to take a trip out of the country

[bendster]

The snapshot:

- I need to file for Citizenship (green card expires soon) - I've been in the states for 7 years, I am now 21.
- BUT, I will be taking a trip backpacking around the world for a year, I've been planning this/saving up for 2 years now.
- I am leaving mid-October of this year.

My questions:

- How long would the N-400 application take?? If I apply today, will I have my papers in time and be set?
- If not, can I be out of the country while they process my application? Perhaps handle things at an embassy in the UK for instance?


Sorry if my questions sound silly, I would appreciate any help on this!!

 

[madh4]

The snapshot:

how long would the N-400 application take?? If I apply today, will I have my papers in time and be set?
- If not, can I be out of the country while they process my application? Perhaps handle things at an embassy in the UK for instance?


Sorry if my questions sound silly, I would appreciate any help on this!!

The processing time takes between 4 to 6 months. It depends on your DO. Some cities it is fairly fast. If you apply now you can expect your interview by sep/oct. If your place has same day oath ceremony you can be done with it. But nothing is certain. It is better to get your citizenship first before staring your back pack tour.

 

[bendster]

wow 6 months - I am supposed to send my papers to the Houston office. do they have same day oath? (I am from NJ) which bring up the follow up question: where do i take my oath, finger prints? a local office? the closest one is in Newark, NJ - I believe.

thanks.

 

[Bobsmyth]

wow 6 months - I am supposed to send my papers to the Houston office. do they have same day oath? (I am from NJ) which bring up the follow up question: where do i take my oath, finger prints? a local office? the closest one is in Newark, NJ - I believe.

thanks.

If you are a resident of NJ, your DO will be Newark. Your FP, interview and oath will all be in Newark.
If you plan on going on your trip, you'll have to face possibility that you will have to return to US during your trip for either interview or oath if either is not done by the time you leave.