Naturalization is the process through which an immigrant can become a U.S. citizen. To qualify, applicants must typically hold a green card for 3 to 5 years or meet military service requirements. This guide explains who can apply, how long the process takes, what the requirements are, and what benefits citizenship brings.
Introduction:
Naturalization is the legal process for a non-citizen to become a U.S. citizen after meeting certain criteria. It leads to the full rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizenship, such as voting, sponsoring family members, and holding a U.S. passport.
Note: Naturalization is not the same as citizenship by birth. Instead, it is the process of acquiring citizenship later in life.
Eligibility Requirements:
To apply for naturalization, you must meet several criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold a green card for:
- 5 years (standard case), or
- 3 years (if married to a U.S. citizen)
- Physically live in the U.S. for at least 30 months (or 18 months if married to a U.S. citizen)
- Have lived in your current state for at least 3 months
- Be of “good moral character”
- Pass English and civics tests
- Register for Selective Service (if male and between 18–25)
- Be willing to serve in the U.S. military or perform civilian service if required
Read Also: Letter of Invitation for U.S. Travel Visa– How to Write
Application Process:
Step 1: Submit Form N-400
Submit the N-400 Application for Naturalization either online or by mail. Include the $760 filing fee unless exempted. Military applicants pay no fee.
Step 2: Biometrics Appointment
Attend a fingerprinting appointment at your local USCIS office for a background check.
Step 3: Citizenship Interview & Exam
Attend an interview where a USCIS officer verifies your application and administers:
- English test (reading, writing, speaking)
- Civics test (U.S. history and government)
Study materials are available from USCIS.
Step 4: Oath of Allegiance
Attend the naturalization ceremony, return your green card, and receive your Certificate of Naturalization.
Naturalization Timeline:
- Application submission to biometrics: ~1 month
- Interview and exam: ~12–14 months after submission
- Oath ceremony: Varies by location, usually within 1–2 months after approval
You may file your N-400 up to 90 days before reaching your required 3- or 5-year residency mark.
Cost of Naturalization:
- Standard filing fee: $760
- Fee waivers: Available for low-income applicants and military members
No additional fees for the English/civics tests or the oath ceremony.
Benefits:
Once naturalized, you gain:
- Right to Vote
Gain full voting rights in federal, state, and local U.S. elections. - U.S. Passport Access
Travel freely with one of the world’s most powerful passports, offering visa-free access to 180+ countries. - No Risk of Deportation
Naturalized citizens cannot be deported unless their citizenship was obtained fraudulently. - Ability to Sponsor Family Members
Sponsor immediate relatives—including parents, spouses, children, and siblings—for green cards with fewer delays. - Eligibility for Federal Jobs
Apply for government positions and agencies that require U.S. citizenship. - Access to Government Benefits
Full access to Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and other federal assistance programs. - Automatic Citizenship for Children
Your minor children may automatically become U.S. citizens—even if born abroad. - Freedom to Travel Without Restrictions
Stay abroad for extended periods without the risk of losing your immigration status. - Easier Reentry into the U.S.
U.S. citizens face fewer border restrictions and processing delays compared to green card holders. - Jury Service Eligibility
Participate in the U.S. legal system through jury duty, a civic responsibility and right of citizenship. - No More Green Card Renewals or Fees
Avoid the cost and effort of renewing or replacing your green card every 10 years. - Dual Citizenship (if allowed by your home country)
Hold dual nationality, depending on your country’s laws. - Educational and Financial Aid Eligibility
Apply for federal student aid and scholarships available only to U.S. citizens. - Political Participation
Run for public office in local, state, or federal elections (except the presidency).
Special Considerations:
- Dual Citizenship: The U.S. allows it, but your home country might not. Check their policy.
- Military Service: You may be called upon to serve in times of war.
- Jury Duty: You may be summoned to serve as a juror.
- Global Taxes: U.S. citizens must file U.S. taxes no matter where they live.
- Criminal Record: Past offenses may impact eligibility. Consider legal consultation if in doubt.
Conclusion:
Applying for naturalization is a major step. Review USCIS materials carefully, and consider help from a licensed immigration attorney or a trusted service.
For official guidance and eligibility tools, visit USCIS.gov.
Naturalization is the process through which an immigrant can become a U.S. citizen. To qualify, applicants must typically hold a green card for 3 to 5 years or meet military service requirements. This guide explains who can apply, how long the process takes, what the requirements are, and what benefits citizenship brings.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I apply for naturalization early?
Yes. You can file your Form N-400 up to 90 days before meeting the residency requirement, as long as all other criteria are met.
How long does the naturalization process take?
It takes approximately 5 to 10 months from application submission (Form N-400) to the Oath of Allegiance ceremony, though timelines may vary by USCIS location.
What is naturalization?
Naturalization is the legal process by which a non-U.S. citizen voluntarily becomes a U.S. citizen after meeting eligibility requirements such as lawful permanent residency, physical presence, and passing the citizenship test.
