Frequently Asked Questions About Immigration

• How do I become a U.S. Citizen?
• I recently filed for Naturalization or a Green Card with the USCIS. How long will that take?
• I need a form from the USCIS, but the local office won't give me one. How do I get an USCIS form?
• I've tried calling the USCIS to ask a simple question, but can't get through. How do you call the USCIS?
• USCIS and Congress

How do I become a U.S. Citizen?

Visit the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website for information about how to become a U.S. citizen. Also, you can download a "Guide to Naturalization." This 45-page booklet answers most questions you may have regarding citizenship. You must have Adobe Acrobat to access it.

If you prefer, you can also call 1-800-870-3676 and request form N-400, the Naturalization application, or download it from the USCIS website.

I recently filed for Naturalization or a Green Card with the USCIS. How long will that take?

If you would like Congressman Peterson to inquire about the status of your Naturalization or Green Card, fill out a privacy release form and mail it to:

Congressman Collin Peterson
714 Lake Avenue, Suite 107
Detroit Lakes, MN 56501

I need a form from the USCIS, but the local office won't give me one. How do I get a USCIS form?

Forms are available for download from the USCIS website. You can request forms be mailed to you on the USCIS website, or by calling 1-800-870-FORM (3676).

I've tried calling the USCIS to ask a simple question, but can't get through. How do you call the USCIS?

You can also try the USCIS toll-free number for general questions: 1-800-375-5283.

USCIS and Congress

Oversight of USCIS is performed by the Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration and Claims. Testimony before the committee is now available on-line.

Go to the USCIS website to find information on laws, regulations and interpretations controlling immigration and the work of the USCIS. Here, you can find the full text of the Immigration and Nationality Act, and any subsequent legislation that has affected it.

You can also learn how immigration laws are made and how regulations are developed. You can explore agency and judicial interpretations of those laws. You can also find handbooks and guides used by the USCIS in performing its mission as well as guides created to help you through the immigration process.