Becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization grants the full rights and responsibilities of citizenship—including voting, holding office, and obtaining a U.S. passport. Understanding the naturalization process helps eligible immigrants successfully complete their citizenship journey.

Benefits of Citizenship

U.S. citizenship provides permanent status that cannot be revoked (except for fraud), the right to vote in elections, eligibility for federal jobs and elected office, ability to sponsor relatives for immigration, access to a U.S. passport, and protection from deportation.

Citizens also face fewer travel restrictions and don't need to worry about maintaining permanent resident status.

Basic Eligibility Requirements

To naturalize, you must be at least 18 years old, be a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), meet continuous residence requirements, meet physical presence requirements, demonstrate good moral character, pass English and civics tests, and demonstrate attachment to the Constitution.

Most applicants must be permanent residents for five years; spouses of U.S. citizens may qualify after three years.

The Five-Year Residency Requirement

You must have been a permanent resident for five continuous years before applying. You can file up to 90 days before the five-year anniversary. Extended absences (over six months) can break continuity.

Spouses of U.S. citizens only need three years if they've been married and living with their citizen spouse throughout.

Physical Presence Requirement

You must be physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months of the five years before applying (18 months if using the three-year rule). This is actual time in the U.S., not just legal residence.

Good Moral Character

You must demonstrate good moral character for the statutory period (three or five years). Certain crimes bar good moral character including murder, aggravated felonies, controlled substance violations, and crimes involving moral turpitude.

Other negative factors include lying to obtain immigration benefits, failure to pay taxes, and failure to pay child support.

The Naturalization Application

Apply using Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. Include required documentation, photographs, and filing fee. USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment for fingerprinting.

The Citizenship Interview

USCIS conducts an interview to verify your application, test your English ability, and administer the civics test. The interview typically lasts 15-30 minutes. Be prepared to answer questions about your application and demonstrate basic English speaking and comprehension.

English and Civics Tests

You must demonstrate ability to read, write, and speak basic English, and pass a civics test on U.S. history and government. The civics test asks 10 questions from a list of 100—you must answer 6 correctly.

Exemptions exist for elderly long-term residents and those with medical conditions.

The Oath of Allegiance

After approval, you attend a naturalization ceremony and take the Oath of Allegiance. This is when you officially become a citizen. You renounce foreign allegiances, pledge support to the Constitution, and receive your Certificate of Naturalization.

Dual Citizenship

The U.S. doesn't require renouncing other citizenships. You may retain citizenship in your home country if that country allows dual citizenship. Check your home country's laws.

Processing Times

Naturalization processing typically takes 6-12 months, though times vary by location and complexity. USCIS provides estimated processing times on their website.

Getting Legal Help

Immigration attorneys help with complex cases—criminal history, extended absences, or application concerns. They ensure you're eligible before applying and guide you through the process.