April 21, 2025

Differences between N600 and N600K forms

Form N-600 and Form N-600K serve distinct purposes. Form N-600K is used by U.S. citizen parents to apply for their child’s naturalization when the child was born and resides outside the United States but qualifies for citizenship. Conversely, if the child resides within the United States, Form N-600 should be used to obtain proof of citizenship. If your child lives outside the United States while you reside in the United States, you are not eligible to file Form N-600K, as the child must reside outside the United States under your legal and physical custody.

For individuals born to a U.S. citizen parent, a Certificate of Citizenship serves as proof that citizenship was obtained either at birth or derived after birth. Once USCIS issues this certificate, the individual can use it to apply for a U.S. passport as evidence of U.S. nationality.

Certificate of Citizenship for Children Born Outside the U.S. but Residing Permanently in the U.S. (Form N-600)

A child born outside the United States but living permanently in the U.S. may be eligible for citizenship if the child:

• Has at least one U.S. citizen parent, either by birth or naturalization,
• Is under 18 years of age, and
• Is a U.S. permanent resident living under the legal and physical custody of their U.S. citizen parent.

Citizenship Certificate for Children Born and Living Outside the U.S. (Form N-600K)

Under INA § 322, children born and residing outside the United States may obtain a Certificate of Citizenship if they meet the following criteria:

• At least one parent is a U.S. citizen,
• The U.S. citizen parent was physically present in the U.S. for a total of 5 years (including 2 years after turning 14), or a U.S. citizen grandparent meets this physical presence requirement,
• The child is under 18 years of age,
• The child resides outside the United States in the legal and physical custody of the U.S. citizen parent, and
• The child is temporarily and lawfully in the United States and maintaining lawful immigration status.

Special provisions apply to children whose U.S. citizen parent serves in the U.S. military. Additionally, if the U.S. citizen parent is deceased, a grandparent or legal guardian may file on the child’s behalf, provided the application is submitted within five years of the parent’s death (see 8 C.F.R. § 322.3(a)).

What Happens if USCIS Denies My Form N-600 or N-600K?

If USCIS denies a child’s Form N-600 or N-600K, the agency will issue a written decision explaining the reasons for the denial. Applicants have the right to appeal the decision following the procedures outlined in the applicable regulations.

Should you have any questions regarding derivative citizenship, please call our team for a free consultation at (866) 521-6422.  Attorney Diana Bailey has over 26 years experience practicing immigration law—we have a knowledgeable team that is here to help you.