US Citizenship and Naturalization

Naturalization is the process by which U.S. citizenship is conferred upon a foreign citizen or national after he or she fulfills the requirements established by Congress in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

The general requirements for administrative naturalization include:
-a period of continuous residence and physical presence in the United States;
-residence in a particular USCIS District prior to filing;
-an ability to read, write, and speak English;
-a knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government;
-good moral character;
-attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution; and,
-favorable disposition toward the United States.


Many people qualify for citizenship if they have been a permanent resident for five years. If you received your permanent residence status through marriage to a U.S. citizen, then the process to obtain citizenship is even faster. Other immigration requirements are the ability to speak English, a demonstrated knowledge of U.S. history and government, and a good moral character.

Advantages of becoming a U.S. citizen include easier entry at international ports of entry, protection of civil rights on U.S. soil and abroad, elimination of the fear of deportation, and opportunities for personal and financial freedom. Citizenship status qualifies holders for additional government benefits and entitlements that are not available to permanent resident aliens.
3. How do I become a naturalized citizen? If you are not a U.S. citizen by birth or did not acquire U.S. citizenship automatically after birth, you may still be eligible to become a citizen through the normal naturalization process. People who are 18 years and older use the "Application for Naturalization" (Form N-400) to become naturalized. Persons who acquired citizenship from parent(s) while under 18 years of age use the "Application for a Certificate of Citizenship" (Form N-600) to document their naturalization . Adopted children who acquired citizenship from parent(s) use the "Application for a Certificate of Citizenship on Behalf of an Adopted Child" (Form N-643) to document their naturalization. You may click here to download forms or you may call the Forms Line at 1(800) 870-3676 to request Form N-400, N-600, or N-643.

13. How long will it take to become naturalized? The time it takes to be naturalized varies from one local office to another. In 1997, in many places, it took over 2 years to process an application. USCIS continues to improve the naturalization process. As of October 2001, USCIS reported that it takes, on average, between 6 and 9 months to become naturalized.

18. If USCIS grants me naturalization, when will I become a citizen? You become a citizen as soon as you take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States. In some places, you can choose to take the Oath the same day as your interview. If that option is not available or if you prefer a ceremony at a later date, USCIS will notify you of the ceremony date with a "Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony" (Form N-445).

:: Step 1: Submit a complete and accurate application form with all the necessary attachments and requirements. You must ensure that the application is submitted to the correct Immigration Office. Step 2: Prepare for the multiple choice examination which will include questions about US History, Government Structure and English Proficiency. Step 3: Prepare for the Citizenship Interview with an Immigration Officer. Step 4: Await Immigration approval and date for the naturalization ceremony. The filing fee for the N-400 is $260 (this fee does not include fingerprint fees), payable to Immigration and Naturalization Services (INS), preferably in Money Order or Cashier's Check. Additional supporting documents may be required. Most individuals will be examined on their ability to read, write and speak English (some exceptions apply). If your application is approved, you will be required to take the following Oath of Allegiance to the United States in order to become a citizen: Step 5: Find out if you are an eligible candidate for retaining your current citizenship and obtaining dual citizenship.

Who can apply for Naturalization

You may apply for naturalization if:

-You have been a lawful permanent resident for five years
-You have been a lawful permanent resident for three years, have been married to a US citizen for those three years, and continue to be married to that U.S. citizen
-You are a lawful permanent resident child of United States citizen parents
-You have qualifying military service
-Children under 18 may automatically become citizens when their parents naturalize.

This website is not affiliated with the United States Government. We are an independent non-government organization dedicated to help individuals and their families through the U.S. immigration process. We provide up-to-date immigration information and do-it-yourself immigration packages which may save you up to 80% in legal fees.