What is a Certificate of Naturalization?

A Certificate of Naturalization is specifically a document issued to individuals who have gone through the naturalization process to become United States citizens. This certificate serves as official proof that the individual has fulfilled all the legal requirements to obtain citizenship, such as demonstrating knowledge of U.S. history and government, taking an oath of allegiance, and establishing residency.

The significance of the Certificate of Naturalization lies in its role as a formal validation of the individual's status as a U.S. citizen; it is a crucial document for various purposes, including applying for a U.S. passport, registering to vote, and obtaining certain government benefits. This contrasts with other options where a certificate is not involved, such as social security cards or tax forms, which serve different functions entirely.