What is Naturalization?
Naturalization is the process by which a foreign-born person becomes a U.S. citizen. It is one of the most significant milestones for immigrants and comes with full rights and responsibilities of citizenship.
Basic Eligibility Requirements
To apply for naturalization, you generally must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen)
- Have lived in the state or USCIS district where you apply for at least 3 months
- Have continuous residence in the U.S.
- Have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months of the past 5 years
- Be able to read, write, and speak basic English
- Have a basic understanding of U.S. history and government
- Be a person of good moral character
- Support the U.S. Constitution
- Review your application
- Test your English language ability
- Administer the civics test
- American government (principles, system, rights)
- American history
- Integrated civics (geography, symbols, holidays)
- Vote in federal elections
- Run for elected office
- Obtain a U.S. passport
- Petition for family members to immigrate
- Cannot be deported
- Serve on a jury
- Register with Selective Service (for males 18-25)
- Pay taxes
- Obey all laws
- USCIS: uscis.gov/citizenship
- USCIS Contact Center: 1-800-375-5283
- Free citizenship preparation classes: Contact your local library or community center
Step-by-Step Naturalization Process
Step 1: File Form N-400
Complete and submit Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) along with supporting documents and the $725 filing fee (fee waivers available for qualifying applicants).
Step 2: Biometrics Appointment
USCIS will schedule you for a biometrics appointment to collect your fingerprints, photo, and signature.
Step 3: Interview
You’ll be scheduled for an interview at your local USCIS office. During the interview, an officer will:
Step 4: The Civics Test
The civics test consists of 20 questions drawn from a list of 128 civics questions. You must answer at least 12 correctly (60%) to pass. Topics include:
Study resources are available free at uscis.gov/citizenship.
Step 5: Receive a Decision
After your interview, USCIS will grant, continue, or deny your application. Most applicants receive a decision the same day as their interview.
Step 6: Take the Oath of Allegiance
If approved, you’ll attend a naturalization ceremony and take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States. After the oath, you are officially a U.S. citizen!
Rights and Responsibilities of Citizens
Rights include:
Responsibilities include: