Q: How to obtain a new certificate of citizenship in Florida after losing the original?

A: https://www.uscis.gov/n-565

A: You'll need to file Form N-565, "Application for Replacement Naturalization/Citizenship Document," with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to replace your lost certificate of citizenship. When filling out the form, be sure to include your basic biographical information, the details of your original certificate (such as date and location of issuance), and an explanation of how it was lost. The form requires a filing fee of $555, plus an $85 biometric services fee if required for your case.

Along with your application, you should submit copies of any identification documents you have, such as your driver's license, passport, or state ID. If you have any documentation related to your original naturalization, like copies of your parents' naturalization papers from 1983, these will be helpful in processing your application faster. The processing time for N-565 applications typically ranges from 5 to 8 months, though this can vary based on current USCIS workloads.

After submitting your application, USCIS will send you a receipt notice confirming they've received your case. You can use the receipt number to track the status of your application online through the USCIS website. While waiting for your replacement certificate, you might consider getting a U.S. passport if you don't already have one, as it's another valid proof of citizenship and can be used while your certificate application is pending. Remember that reporting the loss now is completely normal, even though it happened years ago - many people find themselves in similar situations.