Naturalization: Your Guide to Becoming a U.S. Citizen

Basic Eligibility Requirements

To apply for naturalization through Form N-400, you must meet several requirements:

Permanent residence: You must have been a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for at least 5 years (3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).

Physical presence: You must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of the 5 years (18 months for the 3-year track).

Continuous residence: You must have maintained continuous residence. Trips outside the U.S. of more than 6 months may disrupt continuity.

Good moral character: You must demonstrate good moral character for the statutory period. Certain criminal convictions or behaviors can be bars to good moral character.

The Application Process

Step 1: File Form N-400 with USCIS. The filing fee is currently $710 (includes biometrics).

Step 2: Attend a biometrics appointment for fingerprinting and background checks.

Step 3: Attend your naturalization interview. An officer will review your application, verify your documents, and test your English and civics knowledge.

The Civics and English Tests

You must pass an English test (reading, writing, and speaking) and a civics test (answer 6 out of 10 questions correctly from a list of 100 possible questions about U.S. history and government). Certain applicants over 50 or 55 may take the civics test in their native language.

The Oath Ceremony

After approval, you'll attend an oath ceremony where you take the Oath of Allegiance. You'll receive your Certificate of Naturalization — you are now a U.S. citizen with full rights including voting.