US Citizenship and Immigration — Naturalization Services for the United States of America
Citizenship is one of the most coveted gifts that the U.S. government can bestow, and the most important immigration benefit that USCIS can grant. Most people become U.S. citizens in one of two ways:
- By birth, either within the territory of the United States or to U.S. citizen parents, or
- By Naturalization.
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.
All naturalization applicants must demonstrate good moral character, attachment, and favorable disposition. The other naturalization requirements may be modified or waived for certain applicants, such as spouses of U.S. citizens. Applicants should review the materials listed under “Useful Information” and carefully read the N-400 application instructions before applying.
Note: Recent changes in immigration law and USCIS procedures now make it easier for U.S. military personnel to naturalize.
More Details
Naturalization is the process by which U.S. citizenship is conferred upon a foreign national after he or she fulfills the requirements established by the government. U.S. Citizenship holds several advantages to Permanent Residency:
- U.S. Citizens have the right to vote.
- Only U.S. Citizens may possess U.S. passports.
- U.S. Citizens receive U.S. government protection when abroad.
Basic Residency Requirements
If Permanent Residency was acquired through U.S. employment, the requirements for naturalization are as follows:
- 5 years as a Permanent Resident without leaving the United States for trips of six months or longer;
- 30 months of physical presence in the United States;
- 3 months in District or State of current residence.
If Permanent Residency was acquired through marriage to a U.S. Citizen, the requirements for naturalization are as follows:
- 3 years as a Permanent Resident without leaving the United States for trips of six months or longer;
- 18 months of physical presence in the United States;
- 3 months in District or State of current residence.
Other General Requirements Summary
In addition to the residency requirements listed above, the following requirements apply to all naturalization applicants:
- at least 18 years of age;
- 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.
