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“Name Was Updated”on your N-400 · Become a U.S. citizen

USCIS changed the name on your citizenship case.
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WHICH STEP ARE YOU ON?
Receipt notice
Biometrics
Interview and civics test
Decision
Oath ceremony
Naturalization certificate

What to do, in 3 steps

Check the new name is spelled exactly right.
Use the same name on future forms.
Keep the document that supports the name change.
14months
13 to 14 monthsTypical time for a complete N-400. USCIS published times. Typical ranges, never an exact date.
In this statusThis is a quick update; the case usually moves on to its next step.

What it means for your N-400

USCIS changed the name on your citizenship case. If you asked for a legal name change on your N-400, note that it generally becomes final only when you naturalize, and in some places it requires a court ceremony. Check that the name shown is exactly how you want it on your naturalization certificate.

In general, on any form:

USCIS updated the name on your case record. This often follows a correction request or new documents like a marriage certificate. Your case keeps moving with the new name. Any card or notice should now show it.

Avoid these mistakes

Using different name spellings across forms.
Not checking the final card for the right name.

Quick questions

What does "Name Was Updated" mean on an N-400?

USCIS changed the name on your citizenship case. If you asked for a legal name change on your N-400, note that it generally becomes final only when you naturalize, and in some places it requires a court ceremony. Check that the name shown is exactly how you want it on your naturalization certificate.

Why does my status say 'Name Was Updated'?

USCIS changed the name on your record, usually because of a correction or new document.

Will this delay my case?

Usually not much. The case continues with the updated name.

What if the new name is still wrong?

Contact USCIS again with proof of the correct name.

How long does an N-400 take?

The typical range published by USCIS is 13 to 14 months. It depends on the office and your case; it is not an exact date.

Other statuses of your N-400

Every status of an N-400 →

This same status on other forms

AI-assisted explanation based on the official USCIS status, reviewed by CaseAlerta. Not legal advice. Times are typical ranges, never an exact date.