U.S. Naturalization Process

The U.S. naturalization process is the process by which a person who is not a U.S. citizen becomes a U.S. citizen. It is a legal process that requires meeting certain eligibility requirements, completing an application, and passing an English and civics test.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for naturalization, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have been a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for at least 5 years, or 3 years if you are married to a U.S. citizen and have lived with your spouse that entire time
• Have lived in the United States for at least 30 months (2.5 years) out of the 5 years (or 18 months, or 1.5 years, if married to a U.S. citizen)
• Be able to read, write, and speak basic English (depending on age)
• Be of good moral character
• Be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States

Application Process

To apply for naturalization, you must complete Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. You can file Form N-400 online or by mail. You must also submit a filing fee, which is currently $725.

English and Civics Test

Once you have filed your application, you will be scheduled for an English and civics test. The English test is designed to assess your ability to read, write, and speak basic English. The civics test is designed to assess your knowledge of U.S. history and government.

Naturalization Interview

After you have passed the English and civics test, you will be scheduled for a naturalization interview. At the interview, a USCIS officer will review your application and ask you questions about your background and eligibility for naturalization.

Naturalization Ceremony

If you are approved for naturalization, you will be scheduled for a naturalization ceremony. At the ceremony, you will take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States and become a U.S. citizen.

Requirements for Becoming a U.S. Citizen

To become a U.S. citizen through naturalization, you must meet all of the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have been a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for at least 5 years, or 3 years if you are married to a U.S. citizen and have lived with your spouse that entire time
• Have lived in the United States for at least 30 months (2.5 years) out of the 5 years (or 18 months, or 1.5 years, if married to a U.S. citizen)
• Be able to read, write, and speak basic English (depending on age)
• Be of good moral character
• Be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States

Additional Information

Waivers

There are some waivers available for certain requirements, such as the English and civics test and the residency requirements. For example, if you are over the age of 50 and have been a lawful permanent resident for at least 20 years, you may be able to waive the English and civics test.

Filing Fees

There are filing fees associated with the naturalization process. The current filing fee for Form N-400 is $725. There is also a fee for fingerprinting, which is currently $85.

Processing Times

The processing times for naturalization applications can vary depending on the USCIS field office where your application is being processed. The current average processing time for Form N-400 is 6 months.

Help with the Naturalization Process

There are a number of organizations that can provide help with the naturalization process, such as legal aid organizations and immigrant advocacy groups. You can also find information and resources on the USCIS website.

Tips for Applying for Naturalization

Here are some tips for applying for naturalization:

• Make sure you meet all of the eligibility requirements.
• Gather all of the required documentation before you file your application.
• File your application online or by mail.
• Pay the filing fee.
• Prepare for the English and civics test.
• Attend your naturalization interview.
• Take the Oath of Allegiance at your naturalization ceremony.

Conclusion

The U.S. naturalization process is a legal process that allows non-U.S. citizens to become U.S. citizens. To be eligible for naturalization, you must meet certain requirements, complete an application, and pass an English and civics test. The naturalization process can be complex, but there are a number of resources available to help you.