Naturalization Process to Become a U.S. Citizen
If you already have a Green Card, naturalization may be your next step toward becoming a United States citizen. This page explains the basic eligibility requirements, the filing process, current filing fees, and how VisaCoach can help prepare your application.
What Is Naturalization?
Naturalization is the process used by eligible lawful permanent residents to apply for United States citizenship. For many immigrants, this is the final step after first obtaining a Green Card through marriage, family sponsorship, employment, asylum, refugee status, or another qualifying immigration path.
Becoming a U.S. citizen can provide important benefits, including the right to vote, the ability to apply for a U.S. passport, protection from losing permanent resident status after extended travel, and the ability to petition for certain family members as a U.S. citizen.
Basic Eligibility Requirements for U.S. Citizenship
Most naturalization applicants must meet several requirements before filing Form N-400. The exact requirements depend on the basis for applying, but the most common categories are the 5-year lawful permanent resident rule and the 3-year rule for certain spouses of U.S. citizens.
Common 5-Year Green Card Path
This is the standard path for many lawful permanent residents.
- Be at least 18 years old when filing.
- Have been a lawful permanent resident for the required period.
- Show continuous residence in the United States.
- Show physical presence in the United States for the required amount of time.
- Meet the good moral character requirement.
- Pass the English and civics requirements unless an exemption applies.
- Be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance.
Common 3-Year Marriage-Based Path
Some lawful permanent residents married to U.S. citizens may be eligible sooner.
- Be at least 18 years old when filing.
- Have been a lawful permanent resident for at least 3 years.
- Have been living in marital union with a U.S. citizen spouse for the required period.
- Meet continuous residence and physical presence rules.
- Provide proof of the ongoing qualifying marriage.
- Meet the English, civics, good moral character, and oath requirements.
Naturalization Filing Fees and VisaCoach Preparation Fee
The USCIS filing fee is paid to the U.S. government. The VisaCoach preparation fee is separate and covers our assistance preparing the application package.
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| USCIS Form N-400 filing fee | $760 | Current standard filing fee for Form N-400. Government fees can change, so verify the fee before filing. |
| VisaCoach application preparation | $730 | VisaCoach prepares the naturalization application and helps organize the supporting documents. |
| Total with VisaCoach preparation and USCIS filing fee | $1,490 | $760 USCIS filing fee + $730 VisaCoach preparation fee. |
Some applicants may qualify for a reduced fee or fee waiver. USCIS fee rules may change, and proposed changes are not final until officially implemented. Always verify the fee before submitting the application.
The Naturalization Process Step by Step
Confirm Eligibility
Review your Green Card date, marriage basis if applying under the 3-year rule, travel history, tax history, and any possible complications before filing.
Prepare Form N-400
Complete the naturalization application carefully. The application asks about residence, travel, employment, marriage history, children, taxes, criminal history, and eligibility.
Gather Supporting Documents
Collect your Green Card, identification, travel records, marriage documents if needed, tax information, and other evidence related to your eligibility.
File With USCIS
Submit the application with the correct filing fee. Keep copies of everything you submit.
Attend Biometrics if Required
USCIS may schedule biometrics to collect fingerprints, photograph, and signature for background checks.
Prepare for the Interview and Test
At the naturalization interview, a USCIS officer reviews your application and usually tests English and civics unless an exemption or accommodation applies.
Receive a Decision
USCIS may approve the application, continue the case to request more information or retesting, or deny the application.
Take the Oath of Allegiance
You do not become a U.S. citizen until you take the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony and receive your Certificate of Naturalization.
After Citizenship
After naturalization, you may apply for a U.S. passport, update your Social Security record, register to vote, and consider whether to file petitions for eligible family members.
Common Documents Needed for Naturalization
The documents needed depend on your situation. Many applicants should be prepared to provide the following:
Identity and Status
- Permanent Resident Card, front and back
- Driver license or state identification
- Current and expired passports
- Records of trips outside the United States
Marriage-Based Evidence
- Marriage certificate
- Proof your spouse is a U.S. citizen
- Evidence of living together in marital union
- Prior divorce or death certificates, if applicable
Additional Records
- Tax filing information
- Selective Service information, if applicable
- Court or police records, if applicable
- Name change records, if applicable
VisaCoach Can Prepare Your Naturalization Application
VisaCoach helps eligible Green Card holders prepare the citizenship application package clearly and carefully. Our preparation fee for a naturalization application is $730.
- Review your basic eligibility and filing timing.
- Prepare Form N-400 based on your information.
- Help organize the supporting document checklist.
- Point out common issues to review before filing.
- Provide practical guidance for the next steps after submission.
Before You File, Review These Carefully
- Long trips outside the United States: Travel can affect continuous residence and physical presence.
- Criminal history or arrests: Even old or dismissed cases should be reviewed carefully before filing.
- Taxes and support obligations: USCIS may ask about tax filing, overdue taxes, child support, or other obligations.
- Marriage-based 3-year cases: You must be ready to document the qualifying marriage and your U.S. citizen spouse’s status.
- Application consistency: Your N-400 answers should be accurate and consistent with your immigration history.
Naturalization Questions
Can I apply for citizenship before my 5-year or 3-year date?
Many applicants may file up to 90 calendar days before completing the required continuous residence period. You should not file earlier than allowed.
What is the current USCIS filing fee for Form N-400?
The current standard Form N-400 filing fee shown on this page is $760. Fees may change, so always verify the current USCIS fee before filing.
Does VisaCoach replace the USCIS filing fee?
No. The USCIS filing fee is paid to the government. The VisaCoach $730 preparation fee is separate.
Do I become a U.S. citizen when my N-400 is approved?
No. You become a U.S. citizen after you take the Oath of Allegiance at the naturalization ceremony.
Ready to Take the Next Step Toward U.S. Citizenship?
VisaCoach can prepare your naturalization application for $730 and help you organize the documents needed for a stronger, cleaner submission.
Last reviewed: June 27, 2026. VisaCoach provides application preparation assistance and general immigration information. This page is not legal advice.
