The naturalization process is one of the most important steps an immigrant can take in the United States. As a naturalized citizen, you won’t need to fear deportation, and you’ll enjoy several benefits, such as the right to vote and increased possibilities for family reunification.
But how can you become a US citizen? In this post, we will explain step by step how to become a US citizen through naturalization.
1. Know if you are eligible for the US Naturalization Process
The first step in the naturalization process is to determine if you are eligible to apply for US citizenship. For example, you must be over 18 years old and be a lawful permanent resident for at least five years (or three years if you got a green card by marriage to a US citizen), have a good moral character, and demonstrate that you have been physically present in the United States for 30 months.
Requirements for lawful permanent residents (LPRs or green card holders) for 5 years:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have been an LPR for five years or longer.
- Have lived in the US continuously for at least five years.
- Be physically present in the US for at least 30 months of the last five years.
- Be a resident of the state or district where you’re applying for at least three months.
- Be of good moral character.
Requirements for lawful permanent residents married to US citizens:
- Be a permanent resident for at least three years.
- Have lived in the US continuously for at least three years.
- Be a resident of the state or district where you’re applying for at least three months.
- Be physically present in the US for at least 18 months of the last three years.
- Have been living in marital union with your US citizen spouse for three years before the date you apply for naturalization.
Keep in mind that if one of your parents is a US citizen or was naturalized when you were under 18 years old, you might already be a US citizen.
In addition, if you’ve served in the US Armed Forces, you may qualify to begin the naturalization process through military service. In that case, the requirements are different.
2. How to become an US citizen: Apply for Naturalization
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the government agency responsible for overseeing the US citizenship application process for green card holders and immigrants in general. You can apply to become a US citizen through the USCIS website or at their offices.
There are two primary methods to apply: by mail or online by setting up an account on their website. Regardless of the method you choose, you will need to complete Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, providing honest answers to all required questions about your personal information, family, and time in the United States.
Additionally, you’ll have to submit supporting documents to validate the information in the N-400, such as:
- A copy of your green card.
- Documents that prove your residency and physical presence, such as employment records, tax returns, or utility bills.
- Birth, marriage, divorce, or name change certificates (if applicable).
- Recent passport-style photographs.
It’s advisable to carefully fill out the N-400 form, as it helps USCIS determine your eligibility for naturalization. Along with the application and supporting documents, you must pay an application fee of $760 (mail) or $710 (online).
To keep updated about your process, we recommend creating an account on the USCIS website even if you apply by mail; this way, you can track your case status online.
Another part of your application may include a biometrics appointment. If required, USCIS will inform you of the date, time, and location. This appointment serves to verify if you have a criminal record and to collect biometric data such as fingerprints and a photograph.
These are the first steps on how to become a US citizen legally. Now, let’s move on to the next step.
3. Take the US Citizenship Test
If you are determined eligible for US naturalization, USCIS will notify you of a date for what is commonly called the US Citizenship Test or US Citizenship interview. This is a key part of the naturalization process and has three main components.
The first is an interview, where a USCIS officer will ask you questions about the N-400 form you submitted. Next, you’ll take an English test, where you will need to demonstrate your ability to speak, understand, and write the language.
After that, you will take the Civics Test, where the officer will ask you up to 10 questions about the American government and history.
There is a list of 100 questions and answers for the Civics Test that you should know by heart. But fear not, the English test mostly covers the same subjects as the Civics Test. So, if you prepare for the Civics Test and practice your English, there’s a good chance you’ll pass the US Citizenship Test.
To become a US citizen you must pass the interview. To achieve that you must answer at least 6 of 10 civics questions correctly, prove your English skills, and show you meet all the requirements to apply for citizenship.
For preparation, you can use our naturalization test study tool, the Citizen Now App, which helps you get ready with quizzes, audio, writing, and reading features. Our app can assist you in becoming a US citizen; just read the reviews from the thousands of people we’ve helped pass so far! Give it a try!
4. Receive the USCIS decision about your US citizenship application
After the interview, USCIS will notify you whether you are eligible for US naturalization. If the answer is positive (they call it a granted application), you can start celebrating—there’s only one step left to become a US citizen.
5. Take the Oath of Allegiance and become a US citizen
Finally, we arrive at the end of the US naturalization process. When USCIS informs you, you must attend your Naturalization Ceremony. There, you will take the Oath of Allegiance and swear to respect this country, its laws, and its Constitution. After that, you are officially a US citizen!
Last Words: How to become a US Citizen after green card
In summary, the process requires effort, but with the right motivation and preparation, you can navigate it successfully. Keep in mind that the US naturalization process timeline varies for each person, and sometimes it takes longer than expected.
Remember, many people are in the same situation as you; every year, a large number of applicants go through this process. The important thing is to stay patient and regularly check your case status.
We hope this blog helps you learn how to become a US citizen. We wish you success, and hopefully, you will be the next American citizen!