Becoming a United States Citizen: A Guide to Naturalization

Becoming a United States Citizen: A Guide to Naturalization

You’re a lawful permanent resident of the United States and have dreamed of becoming a United States citizen. Becoming a U.S. citizen is a dream for people all over the world. It makes sense! Being a U.S. citizen confers extraordinary benefits, including the right to vote, the ability to travel freely with a U.S. passport, and the complete protection of American laws. 

The process by which a lawful permanent resident becomes a citizen of the United States is called naturalization, which can be complicated. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step overview of the naturalization process so you can know what to expect. 

One: Are You Eligible for Naturalization?

You might be eligible for naturalization if you fall into one of these categories:

  1. You’ve had your green card for at least five years

  2. You’ve had a green card for three years and you’ve been married to and living with a U.S. citizen for those three years

  3. You served honorably in the U.S. Armed Forces and meet other specific criteria

    Other general requirements include:

  • You are at least 18 years old

  • You meet the requirements for being physically present in the United States

  • You have good moral character

  • You can speak, read, and write basic English*

  • You pass the naturalization civics test*

Two: Complete the Application for Naturalization (Form N-400)

Once you meet with an Immigration Lawyer and confirm that you’re eligible for naturalization, you’ll need to complete and submit the Form N-400, which is the official application for U.S. citizenship. You can either file the form online at USCIS.gov or mail the paper application to the correct USCIS lockbox address. More information about how to file can be found here. 

With your application form, you will also need to provide the following:

  • A copy of both sides of your green card

  • Two identical passport-style photos (you can have these taken at most drug stores)

  • The $760 filing fee (currently $760, which includes biometrics)

* If you have a disability that qualifies for exemption from the English and civics requirements, you will need to file the Form N-648 along with your N-400. 

Three: Attend Your Biometrics Appointment

After you submit your application, USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment for you. During that appointment, you’ll be fingerprinted, have your photo taken, and have your signature recorded for the background check. The appointment will take place at your local Application Support Center. You can find your local center here. 

Four: Attend the Naturalization Interview and Take the English and Civics Tests

Next, you’ll receive a notice for your naturalization interview, which will take place at a local USCIS field office. Be prepared to thoroughly discuss every question on your naturalization application. 

At that appointment, you’ll also complete a test of your English skills and will take the U.S. civics test. 

The civics test will consist of ten questions taken from a list of 100 possible questions. You must correctly answer six out of ten questions to pass the test. If you fail any part of the test, you’ll be able to retake it within 60–90 days from your first.

Be sure to bring the following documents to this appointment:

  • Your interview appointment notice

  • Your green card

  • Your driver’s license or other state-issued identification

  • All valid and expired passports and travel documents that have been issued to you that document your absences from the United States since becoming a permanent resident

Depending on your specific circumstances, you may also need to provide additional documents like:

  • Birth certificates for spouse and/or children

  • Marriage certificates

  • Divorce decrees (or other proof of a dissolution of marriage)

  • Pay stubs

  • Proof of mortgage or rent payments 

  • Records of criminal convictions or other proceedings

  • Tax returns and W-2 forms

  • Your selective service card

A comprehensive list of documents you may need for your application and interview can be found here. 

Five: Written Decision

After the interview, USCIS will send you a written notice of its decision and will indicate whether your application was approved, continued for more information or testing, or denied. 

Six: The Oath of Allegiance to the United States

If your application is approved, you’ll receive a notice for your naturalization ceremony, during which you will take an oath of allegiance to the United States and receive your certificate of naturalization. This is the best part of the process and is worthy of celebration!

Conclusion

Congrats! Now you’re an American citizen! Now, be sure to apply for a United States passport and register to vote. Your next vacation and (not as fun) election season will be here before you know it!

Here at Shillig Law, we know that the road to becoming a U.S. citizen can be incredibly long, complicated, and arduous. Our team of immigration professionals is here and ready to make your journey toward naturalization as streamlined and painless as possible. We will guide you through each step and celebrate being American with you at the end of the road!