If any documents required for a petition or application do not exist or cannot be obtained, the petitioner or applicant must demonstrate the unavailability of the required documents, as well as of relevant secondary evidence, and submit two or more affidavits. The affidavits must be sworn to or affirmed by persons who are not parties to the petition who have direct personal knowledge of the event and circumstances. The applicant or petitioner who has not been able to acquire the necessary document or statement from the relevant foreign authority may submit evidence that repeated good faith attempts were made to obtain the required document or statement.
South Dakota Affidavit and Proof of Naturalized Citizenship — Naturalization Papers Lost or Destroyed In South Dakota, when individuals lose or misplace their naturalization papers, it becomes necessary to obtain an Affidavit and Proof of Naturalized Citizenship to establish their status as a naturalized citizen. This legal document serves as a replacement for the original naturalization papers and aids in proving one's citizenship. The South Dakota Affidavit and Proof of Naturalized Citizenship process is designed to help individuals who have lost or had their naturalization papers destroyed due to various reasons such as theft, fire, or misplacement. This procedure ensures that they can acquire a valid proof of their citizenship status. The Affidavit and Proof of Naturalized Citizenship involves several steps to navigate the bureaucratic requirements smoothly. It requires gathering essential documents, completing the necessary forms, and submitting the application to the designated authorities. While the specific requirements may vary based on individual circumstances, here are some key steps to follow: 1. Determine Eligibility: Verify that you are eligible for applying for the Affidavit and Proof of Naturalized Citizenship in South Dakota. This process is only applicable to individuals who have lost or had their naturalization papers destroyed. 2. Gather Supporting Documents: Collect the required supporting documents, such as a copy of the lost or destroyed naturalization certificate or any other relevant identification papers. You may need to contact the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the appropriate agency to obtain relevant documents. 3. Complete Application Form: Fill out the South Dakota Affidavit and Proof of Naturalized Citizenship application form accurately. Provide all requested information, including your personal details, contact information, and details of your lost or destroyed naturalization papers. 4. Obtain Affidavit Witnesses: The application form typically requires two witnesses who are US citizens to confirm the information provided. These witnesses should not be related to you and need to sign the affidavit form. 5. Notarize Documents: Once the application form is completed, take it to a notary public who will sign and seal the affidavit as a legal document. Make sure to bring a valid government-issued identification card for the notary's verification. 6. Submit Application: Send the completed application form, together with the supporting documents, notarized affidavit, and any applicable fees to the designated authority. Follow the specified instructions for submission, ensuring that all necessary documents are included. Different Types of South Dakota Affidavit and Proof of Naturalized Citizenship: 1. Affidavit and Proof of Naturalized Citizenship for Lost Naturalization Papers: This type of affidavit is for individuals who have misplaced or lost their original naturalization papers and need to obtain a replacement document. 2. Affidavit and Proof of Naturalized Citizenship for Destroyed Naturalization Papers: This category applies to individuals who had their naturalization papers destroyed due to unforeseen circumstances like fire, flood, or other unavoidable situations. It is crucial to note that the South Dakota Affidavit and Proof of Naturalized Citizenship process can take time, and the application may require additional supporting documents or evidence to establish your naturalized citizenship. Working with an immigration lawyer or consulting the USCIS can provide further guidance regarding specific requirements in your case. Remember, the purpose of the Affidavit and Proof of Naturalized Citizenship is to ensure individuals can rectify the loss or destruction of their original naturalization papers and have a valid document to verify their citizenship status in South Dakota.
