Alice Y.

Hello fellow immigrants, I have a question about international travel while my N-400 naturalization application is being processed. I filed my N-400 application last month and just last week had my biometrics appointment. I've been notified that my case is now being actively reviewed by USCIS. The personalized estimated time until case decision in my portal shows 10 months, and the general processing time for N-400 for my field office is listed as 16 months. I am wondering how much of a risk it would be to travel internationally (back to my home country) later this year. My concerns are: 1) I was asked to fill out last 5 years of travel history on my N-400 application, which I did accurately at the time of submitting the application. If I travel now, this travel record would be missing from what I submitted on my application, though technically the application itself was accurate at the time of filing. 2) If my case happens to be processed quickly, faster than the estimated time, it is possible I will be out of the country when my interview appointment is scheduled. (If I were to travel, it would be in September for a 1 month long trip, which is in 5 months time from now). I would then have to reschedule the appointment (which USCIS frowns on unless it is an emergency) or cut the trip short (which, depending on the notice time, may or may not be feasible). I am wondering, given the risk involved, if I should not go on this trip. The trip would be a family function, it is important but not an emergency. Normally I would be very cautious for any decision involving USCIS, however, the estimated processing times are pretty far out. I would love any information or advice - thanks!