Becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization is a significant milestone for many immigrants who have made the United States their home. Naturalization is the legal process by which a non-U.S. national can become a U.S. citizen. It involves meeting certain eligibility requirements, submitting an application, and taking a citizenship test. For those looking to start the journey toward U.S. citizenship, understanding the naturalization process is key to navigating the steps and requirements involved.

This guide will walk you through the naturalization process, explaining the eligibility criteria, required documents, application steps, and what to expect during the journey to becoming a U.S. citizen.

What is Naturalization?

Naturalization is the process by which a foreign national can acquire U.S. citizenship after meeting specific legal requirements. The process is open to individuals who were not born in the U.S. or to U.S. citizen parents. After naturalization, the individual enjoys the same rights and responsibilities as any native-born U.S. citizen, including the right to vote, work in the U.S., and access certain government benefits.

To become a U.S. citizen through naturalization, applicants must apply to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), undergo background checks, demonstrate proficiency in English, and pass a civics test on U.S. history and government.

Eligibility Requirements for Naturalization

To apply for naturalization, applicants must meet the following basic eligibility requirements:

1. Age Requirement

• You must be at least 18 years old to apply for naturalization. However, if you are a child of a U.S. citizen and you meet certain criteria, you may qualify for naturalization before reaching 18.

2. Permanent Resident Status

• You must be a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for at least 5 years before applying for naturalization. If you are married to a U.S. citizen, you may be eligible to apply after 3 years of permanent residency.

3. Continuous Residence

• You must have lived in the United States for at least 5 years as a permanent resident, with no more than 6 months of absence from the U.S. during that time. Applicants married to a U.S. citizen must demonstrate 3 years of continuous residence.

4. Physical Presence

• You must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least half of the 5 years (i.e., 30 months) during the qualifying period. For applicants married to U.S. citizens, this requirement is 18 months.

5. Good Moral Character

• Applicants must demonstrate good moral character during the 5 years (or 3 years for spouses of U.S. citizens) preceding the application. Criminal convictions or violations of U.S. law may impact eligibility.

6. English and Civics Knowledge

• Applicants must demonstrate basic proficiency in English and knowledge of U.S. history and government. The civics test covers topics such as the Constitution, U.S. symbols, and the branches of government.

7. Attachment to the U.S. Constitution

• Applicants must show an attachment to the U.S. Constitution and be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance, pledging loyalty to the United States.

Steps in the Naturalization Process

The process of becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization involves several key steps. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect:

Step 1: Submit the N-400 Application

• The first step in the naturalization process is to file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, with USCIS. This form requires personal information, details about your residency and employment history, and other supporting documents (such as a copy of your green card).

• The form also includes a biographical section and questions related to your background, such as your criminal history (if any) and your immigration history.

Step 2: Biometrics Appointment

• After submitting your Form N-400, USCIS will schedule you for a biometrics appointment, where your fingerprints, photo, and signature will be taken for a background check. This is part of the security screening process to ensure you don’t have a criminal record or any security issues.

Step 3: Naturalization Interview

• After USCIS reviews your application, you will be scheduled for an interview. During this interview, a USCIS officer will ask you questions about your application and background. You will also take the civics test and be assessed on your English language skills.

• The civics test includes 100 questions on U.S. history, government, symbols, and geography. You must correctly answer at least 6 out of 10 questions in the interview. If you do not pass the civics test, you can retake it at a later date.

Step 4: Wait for a Decision

• After your interview, USCIS will issue a decision on your naturalization application. You may receive one of three decisions:

  • Granted: If approved, you will be scheduled for a naturalization ceremony to take the Oath of Allegiance and officially become a U.S. citizen.

  • Continued: If more information or documentation is needed, USCIS will continue your case and may schedule a follow-up interview.

  • Denied: If your application is denied, USCIS will explain the reasons for the denial. You may appeal the decision or file a new application.

Step 5: Take the Oath of Allegiance

• The final step in the naturalization process is taking the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony. At the ceremony, you will pledge loyalty to the United States and officially become a U.S. citizen. Once you take the Oath of Allegiance, you will receive your Certificate of Naturalization, and you will be a U.S. citizen with all the rights and responsibilities that come with it.

Common Challenges in the Naturalization Process

While the naturalization process is straightforward, applicants may encounter some challenges:

• Delays in processing: Naturalization applications can take several months or even years, depending on the applicant’s background and the USCIS processing times.

• Language barriers: Applicants who are not proficient in English may struggle to pass the English language requirement. However, there are some exemptions for older applicants or those with disabilities.

• Criminal history: Applicants with criminal convictions may face difficulties in proving good moral character, which could result in a denial of their application.