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Citizenship

Guidance on the naturalization process for becoming a U.S. citizen, including eligibility requirements and application steps.

Sections

Overview of U.S. Citizenship

U.S. Citizenship is the highest immigration status in the United States, granting individuals full rights and responsibilities, including the right to vote, run for public office (except for the presidency and vice presidency), and obtain a U.S. passport. Citizenship can be obtained either by birth or through a process called naturalization.

This guide focuses on naturalization, the process by which lawful permanent residents (green card holders) become U.S. citizens.

Eligibility Requirements for Naturalization

To apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization, you must meet the following general requirements:

  1. Age Requirement:

    • You must be at least 18 years old at the time of filing Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization).

  2. Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) Status:

    • You must have been a green card holder for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen and living with them during that time).

  3. Physical Presence:

    • You must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of the last 5 years (or 18 months out of the last 3 years if applying based on marriage to a U.S. citizen).

  4. Continuous Residence:

    • You must have continuously resided in the U.S. for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen). Extended trips outside the U.S. (over 6 months) may disrupt this requirement.

  5. Good Moral Character:

    • You must demonstrate good moral character, which generally means no serious criminal record, fraud, or other disqualifying behavior.

  6. English and Civics Knowledge:

    • You must pass an English test (reading, writing, and speaking) and a civics test covering U.S. history and government. Exceptions apply for certain age and disability conditions.

  7. Attachment to the Constitution:

    • You must demonstrate loyalty to the principles of the U.S. Constitution and be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance.

Step-by-Step Process for Naturalization

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

  • Review the eligibility requirements above to ensure you qualify.
  • If you have any doubts about your eligibility, consult an immigration attorney.

Step 2: Prepare Form N-400

  • Complete Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, available on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.
  • Gather required documents, such as:
    • Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
    • Evidence of marital status (if applicable)
    • Proof of military service (if applicable)
    • Travel records (if applicable)
    • Tax returns or IRS documentation (if requested)

Step 3: Pay the Application Fee

  • The standard filing fee for Form N-400 is $640, plus an additional $85 biometric services fee, for a total of $725.
    • Fee waivers or reductions may be available for low-income applicants. Use Form I-912 to request a fee waiver.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

  • File Form N-400 online through the USCIS website or mail it to the appropriate USCIS lockbox facility (check the USCIS website for the correct address based on your location).
  • Include all required supporting documents and the filing fee.

Step 5: Attend the Biometrics Appointment

  • After submitting your application, USCIS will send you a notice for a biometrics appointment.
  • At the appointment, USCIS will collect your fingerprints, photograph, and signature for background checks.

Step 6: Complete the Naturalization Interview

  • USCIS will schedule an interview where an officer will review your application and ask questions about your background.
  • You will also take the English and civics tests during this interview unless you qualify for an exemption.

Step 7: Receive a Decision

  • After the interview, USCIS may approve, deny, or continue your application (e.g., if additional documentation is needed).
  • If approved, you will receive a notice for the Oath of Allegiance ceremony.

Step 8: Take the Oath of Allegiance

  • Attend the naturalization ceremony and take the Oath of Allegiance. This is the final step in becoming a U.S. citizen.
  • After the ceremony, you will receive your Certificate of Naturalization.

Costs Involved

  1. Application Fee: $640
  2. Biometric Services Fee: $85
    • Total: $725
  3. Additional Costs (if applicable):
    • Legal fees (if hiring an attorney): $1,000–$3,000 (varies by case complexity)
    • English or civics classes (if needed): $50–$500 (varies by provider)

Timelines

  • Application Processing Time: 8–14 months (varies by USCIS field office and case complexity).
  • Biometrics Appointment: Typically scheduled 1–2 months after filing.
  • Interview and Testing: Scheduled 6–10 months after filing.
  • Oath Ceremony: Usually occurs 1–2 months after approval.

Country-Specific Considerations

  1. Dual Citizenship:

    • The U.S. allows dual citizenship, but some countries do not. Check with your home country to determine if obtaining U.S. citizenship will affect your current citizenship status.

  2. Military Service:

    • Members of the U.S. Armed Forces may qualify for expedited naturalization under special provisions. No continuous residence or physical presence requirements apply in certain cases.

  3. Language and Civics Test Exemptions:

    • If you are 50 years old and have lived in the U.S. as a green card holder for 20 years (or 55 years old with 15 years of residency), you may take the civics test in your native language.
    • Applicants with certain disabilities may qualify for a waiver of the English and/or civics test requirements by submitting Form N-648 (Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions).

  4. Criminal Records:

    • Applicants with criminal records should consult an immigration attorney before applying, as certain offenses may disqualify you from naturalization.

  5. Travel Considerations:

    • Extensive travel outside the U.S. during the eligibility period may disrupt your continuous residence requirement. Keep detailed travel records and consult an attorney if you have concerns.

Rights and Responsibilities of U.S. Citizens

Once you become a U.S. citizen, you gain the following rights:

  • The right to vote in federal, state, and local elections.
  • The ability to sponsor family members for green cards.
  • Eligibility for federal jobs and elected office.
  • Protection from deportation.

You also take on responsibilities, such as:

  • Serving on a jury when summoned.
  • Paying taxes and obeying U.S. laws.
  • Registering for Selective Service (if you are a male aged 18–25).

Additional Resources

If you have any specific questions or need further clarification, feel free to ask!