Becoming a U.S. citizen is the final step in the immigration process and grants you full rights and responsibilities in the United States. As a U.S. citizen, you can vote, apply for federal jobs, and enjoy permanent protection from deportation.
Here’s everything you need to know about the process of becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization.
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility for U.S. Citizenship
General Requirements for Naturalization:
- Age:
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You must be at least 18 years old.
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Lawful Permanent Residency (Green Card):
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You must have been a Green Card holder for:
- 5 years, or
- 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen.
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Continuous Residence:
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You must have lived in the U.S. for at least:
- 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen), without leaving for trips longer than 6 months.
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Physical Presence:
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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 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
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Good Moral Character:
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You must demonstrate good moral character, including following U.S. laws, paying taxes, and avoiding serious criminal activity.
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English and Civics Knowledge:
- You must be able to read, write, and speak basic English.
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You must pass a U.S. civics test on American history and government.
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Oath of Allegiance:
- You must be willing to swear allegiance to the United States.
Exceptions to General Requirements:
- Military Service:
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If you served in the U.S. military, you may be eligible for expedited citizenship.
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Medical Waivers:
- If you have a disability preventing you from fulfilling certain requirements (e.g., English or civics), you may qualify for a waiver.
Step 2: Prepare Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization)
Form N-400 is the official application to apply for U.S. citizenship.
How to Fill Out Form N-400:
- Download the form from the USCIS website: www.uscis.gov/n-400.
- Provide accurate information about:
- Your Green Card information.
- Residence history for the last 5 years.
- Employment and travel outside the U.S. during the past 5 years.
- Marital and family history.
- Any criminal record (even minor infractions).
Filing Fee for N-400:
- $640 (plus $85 for biometrics, totaling $725).
- Fee waivers may be available for those with financial hardship (Form I-912).
Step 3: Submit Your Application
How to Submit Form N-400:
- Online (Recommended):
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Create a USCIS online account and file your application at my.uscis.gov.
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By Mail:
- Mail the completed Form N-400 along with supporting documents to the appropriate USCIS address listed in the instructions.
Step 4: Attend the Biometrics Appointment?
After USCIS receives your application, you’ll be scheduled for a biometrics appointment to provide:
1. Fingerprints.
2. Photograph.
3. Signature.
What to Bring:
- Appointment notice.
- Green Card.
- Photo ID (passport or driver’s license).
Step 5: Prepare for the Citizenship Interview and Test?
The interview is one of the most important steps in the naturalization process.
What Happens at the Interview:
- Personal Questions:
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The USCIS officer will ask about your background, Green Card, and application.
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English Test:
- Read one sentence aloud in English.
- Write one sentence in English.
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Speak and understand English during the interview.
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Civics Test:
- You’ll be asked up to 10 questions about U.S. history and government.
- You must answer at least 6 questions correctly to pass.
Civics Test Study Guide:
- Topics include:
- U.S. Constitution.
- Founding Fathers.
- American history.
- Federal government structure (legislative, executive, judicial).
- Study materials are available on the USCIS website: www.uscis.gov/citizenship.
Example Civics Questions:
- What is the supreme law of the land? (Answer: The Constitution)
- Who was the first President of the United States? (Answer: George Washington)
Step 6: Wait for the USCIS Decision
After the interview, USCIS will either:
1. Approve Your Application:
- You’ll receive a notice for your Oath of Allegiance Ceremony.
2. Request Additional Evidence (RFE):
- USCIS may ask for more documentation.
3. Deny Your Application:
- If denied, you may appeal or reapply.
Step 7: Attend the Oath of Allegiance Ceremony?
The Oath Ceremony is the final step in becoming a U.S. citizen.
What to Expect:
- Return Your Green Card:
- You must surrender your Green Card as you’ll no longer need it.
- Take the Oath of Allegiance:
- Swear loyalty to the United States.
- Receive Your Certificate of Naturalization:
- This document officially confirms your U.S. citizenship.
Pro Tip: After the ceremony, you can apply for:
- A U.S. passport to travel internationally.
- Voter registration to participate in elections.
Special Situations for U.S. Citizenship
- Children Under 18:
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If one parent becomes a U.S. citizen, children under 18 who live with that parent may automatically acquire citizenship.
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Military Members:
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Active-duty military members or veterans may qualify for expedited naturalization without meeting the residency requirements.
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Dual Citizenship:
- The U.S. allows dual citizenship. However, check the laws of your home country to ensure compatibility.
Key Timelines for Naturalization
Average Processing Time:
- The naturalization process typically takes 8–14 months from filing Form N-400 to attending the Oath Ceremony.
Costs of Becoming a U.S. Citizen
| Expense | Amount |
|----------------------------------|--------------------|
| Filing Fee (Form N-400) | $640 |
| Biometrics Fee | $85 |
| Total Cost | $725 |
Fee Waiver Option:
- File Form I-912 if you qualify for a fee reduction or waiver.
Benefits of U.S. Citizenship
- Right to Vote: Participate in federal, state, and local elections.
- Federal Employment: Access federal jobs and benefits.
- Travel Freedom: Obtain a U.S. passport for visa-free travel to many countries.
- Family Immigration: Sponsor family members for Green Cards faster.
- No Deportation Risk: Gain permanent protection from deportation.
Helpful Resources
- USCIS Naturalization Page:
- www.uscis.gov/citizenship
- Study Materials for Civics Test:
- USCIS Study Tools
- Track Application Status:
- my.uscis.gov/account
Things to Remember
- Becoming a U.S. citizen requires meeting eligibility requirements, filing Form N-400, passing the interview and civics test, and taking the Oath of Allegiance.
- The process typically takes 8–14 months and costs $725 (fee waivers may be available).
- Citizenship grants you full rights, including the ability to vote, sponsor family, and obtain a U.S. passport.