Naturalization is the legal process through which lawful permanent residents become U.S. citizens. This process involves meeting specific eligibility criteria, filing an application, attending a citizenship interview, and passing a civics and English test. 

Learn More About Naturalization on the Official USCIS Website

You may qualify for naturalization if you meet the following criteria: 

1. Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) Over the Age of 18

• 5-Year Rule: Must have been a green card holder for at least 5 years. 
• 3-Year Rule: If married to a U.S. citizen, you can apply after 3 years. 
  [Learn more about marriage-based green cards] 

2. Continuous Residence

• Must have continuously resided in the U.S. for the required period. 

3. Physical Presence

• Must be physically present in the U.S. for at least half of the required residency period. 

4. Good Moral Character

• Must demonstrate good moral character during the statutory period. 

5. Civics and English Knowledge

• Pass the U.S. citizenship test and demonstrate basic English proficiency. 

Check if You Qualify for Naturalization

If you were born outside the U.S. to U.S. citizen parents, you may already be a U.S. citizen by birth. Understanding birthright citizenship laws can help clarify your status. 

Eligibility for Citizenship Through Parents 

• At least one parent must have been a U.S. citizen at the time of birth. 
• The U.S. citizen parent(s) must have met specific physical presence requirements before the child’s birth. 

Common Myths About Citizenship 

Many people misunderstand their eligibility for U.S. citizenship, especially if they were born abroad to U.S. citizen parents. Legal guidance can confirm your status. 

Learn More About Birthright Citizenship

• Voting Rights: Participate in federal, state, and local elections. 
• Family Sponsorship: Petition for immediate relatives without annual quotas. 
• Federal Job Eligibility: Apply for government jobs requiring U.S. citizenship. 
• Global Travel Protections: Travel with a U.S. passport and access U.S. consular services abroad. 
• Deportation Protection: Avoid risks of losing legal status. 

Learn More About Citizenship Benefits

1. Determine Eligibility

• Assess qualifications based on residency, good moral character, and other requirements. 

2. Prepare and File the Application

• Submit Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) with USCIS. 
• Provide supporting documents and pay applicable fees. 

3. Attend Biometrics Appointment

• Fingerprints and photographs are taken for background checks. 

4. Complete the Citizenship Interview and Test

• Answer questions about your application. 
• Pass the U.S. civics test and English language requirement (some exemptions apply). 

5. Take the Oath of Allegiance

• Attend a naturalization ceremony and receive your Certificate of Naturalization. 

Prepare for the Citizenship Test

• Biometrics Fee: $85 
• Form N-600 (Certificate of Citizenship): $1,335+ 
• Attorney Fees: Contact us for a customized quote. 

Check the Official USCIS Fee Schedule

• USCIS Processing: 6-12 months (varies by location). 
• Interview & Test Scheduling: Within a few months after biometrics. 
• Oath Ceremony: Typically within 30-90 days after interview approval. 

Check Current USCIS Processing Times