The process of becoming a naturalized citizen is sought by individuals born outside of the United States in order to be granted the opportunity to obtain citizenship. To know if you qualify, there are a number of requirements placed by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services that vary from a case to case basis.
What are the requirements for becoming a naturalized citizen?
- Being 18 years of age at the time of filing N-400
- Must have been a permanent resident in the United States for a minimum of 5 years
- Must have been a permanent resident in the United States for a minimum of 3 years if permanent residency was obtained through spouse.
- Must demonstrate continuous residence in the United States for required time
- Be able to read, write and speak basic English
- Have a basic understanding of United States History and Government
- Demonstrate good moral character.
What does the process consist of?
- Submission of N-400 form
- Bio-metrics appointment
- Interview session
- Present exam
- USCIS decision
What documents will be needed?
- Permanent resident card
- Civil documents
- Driver’s license/state-issued identification card
- All current and expired passports or travel documents
- Proof of physical presence
Without the consultation of an immigration attorney, one might have common misunderstandings on the naturalization process.
- You must have begun your application for naturalization at least six months prior to the expiration of your permanent residency.
- You have two attempts to pass all exams assuming the first instance was unsuccessful.
- You have the opportunity to present exam in Spanish ONLY in the event you are:
- 50 years old and have been a permanent U.S. resident for 20 years
- 55 years and have been a permanent U.S. resident for 15 years
- 65 years old and have been a permanent U.S. resident for 20 years in which case you only study for 20 questions of the exam
- You may be exempt from the exam if you have a medical problem and proof from a medical expert.
This procedure has a government fee of $725 and usually takes approximately 3 to 9 months. Each individual naturalization case varies in its requirements. Consulting with an immigration attorney will clarify each individual circumstance and give a better understanding for one’s naturalization case.
