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Naturalization Pathfinder

Naturalization is the act of granting the full legal rights and privileges possessed by native-born individuals to someone born in another country. Legal jurisdiction over naturalization has changed repeatedly since the colonial period and records documenting the process are found in various locations.  Knowing approximately when the naturalization took place is one key to locating records.  In some cases, knowing the likely location where the naturalization took place is also very helpful.

This pathfinder will direct you to the best sources for records of naturalizations that took place in New York from the British colonial period to the present. Follow the timeline to the era in which you believe the naturalization in which you are interested may have taken place.

Naturalization records in New York Colony and New York State from 1664 - Present

The New York State Archives holds only a few hundred naturalization documents, all relating to naturalizations performed by higher state courts operating before 1847. The records are not indexed, and Archives staff will not search them for individual names unless the full name, and the date, place, and court of naturalization is provided. Records are found in three series:

  • J1061 Naturalization papers, ca. 1830-1847. Court of Chancery (5th, 6th, and 8th Circuits comprising portions of central and western New York State). 1 cubic foot. Arranged by circuit, then alphabetical by surname.
  • J9013 Naturalization papers, 1822-1839, bulk 1822, 1838-1839. Supreme Court of Judicature (Utica). 0.2 cubic feet. Alphabetical by surname of petitioner. Most documents relate to the naturalization of aliens from Oneida County.
  • J5011 Naturalization papers, 1799-1812. Supreme Court of Judicature (Albany). 0.2 cubic feet (1 box). Alphabetical by surname of petitioner. Most documents relate to the naturalization of aliens from Albany County.

For further information regarding naturalization in New York State and a complete description of available records, see New York State Archives Information Leaflet #6, Naturalization and Related Records.