Naturalization Records

Naturalization records in Multnomah County are located in various places and often complicated to research. The following suggestions should be seen as starting points and researchers should be awa...

Naturalization records in Multnomah County are located in various places and often complicated to research. The following suggestions should be seen as starting points and researchers should be aware that significant time spent researching may be needed to identify useful information. The Oregon State Archives has posted a useful overview of naturalization records. It describes the types of records encountered, and locations where these records may be found.

The period of time in which the naturalization occurred will direct you as to where you should begin your research. Please be aware that overlap exists in the years covered among the places mentioned below.

Mid-1850s through 1929 (Primarily after 1887) : 

The Multnomah County Circuit Court maintains a variety of naturalization records in their archives. Some of the indexes date from the mid-1850's, but the bulk of the records date from 1887 to 1929. They include declarations of intent, certificates of naturalization, citizenship petitions and orders, indexes, and related records.

1859 though 1911 : 

For naturalizations dated earlier than 1887, you might contact the National Archives for records of the U.S. District and U.S. Circuit Courts. They have records dated from 1859 to 1911 which include court journals, declarations of intention, indexes, and similar records.

After 1906 : 

For naturalizations dated after 1906, you should contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS, formerly INS). They provide fee-based assistance with genealogical research. Records dated 1906 to 1956 are located in the national INS office; records dated after 1956 are located in regional INS offices.

Key Contacts :

Oregon State Archives
800 Summer Street
Salem, OR 97310
(503) 373-0701

Multnomah County Circuit Court
County Courthouse
1021 S.W. 4th Avenue, Room 131
Portland, OR 97202
(503) 988-3003

National Archives - Seattle
6125 Sand Point Way N.E.
Seattle, WA 98115
(206) 526-6507

U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services
USCIS Portland Field Office
1455 NW Overton Street, Suite 1
Portland, OR 97209
contact must be made through infopass

Last reviewed January 4, 2024