U.S. Citizenship Guide
How to Apply for U.S. Citizenship
Most people become U.S. citizens through naturalization after first becoming lawful permanent residents. Learn the basic eligibility requirements, when you may apply, and the main steps in the naturalization process.
The Basics
What Is Naturalization?
Naturalization is the legal process through which an eligible person born outside the United States voluntarily becomes a U.S. citizen. For most applicants, the process begins after several years as a lawful permanent resident, commonly known as a green card holder.
Citizenship provides important rights and responsibilities. These include the right to vote in federal elections, apply for a U.S. passport, seek certain government jobs, and petition for qualifying relatives under citizenship-based immigration categories.
Eligibility depends on your individual history. Before filing Form N-400, review the requirements carefully and consider how travel, taxes, arrests, marital history, military service, or long absences from the United States may affect your application.
Eligibility
Basic Naturalization Requirements
Although exceptions and special rules may apply, a typical naturalization applicant must meet the following requirements.
Age and Permanent Residence
Be at least 18 years old when filing Form N-400 and have been lawfully admitted as a permanent resident for the required period.
Continuous Residence
Maintain continuous residence in the United States for the required statutory period before filing and through naturalization.
Physical Presence
Be physically present in the United States for the required portion of the applicable three-year or five-year period.
Local Residence
Generally reside for at least three months in the state or USCIS district with jurisdiction over your application before filing.
English and Civics
Demonstrate basic English reading, writing, and speaking skills and knowledge of U.S. history and government, unless an exception applies.
Good Moral Character
Show good moral character during the required period and disclose relevant conduct truthfully throughout the application process.
Constitutional Principles
Demonstrate attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution and willingness to support the United States.
Oath of Allegiance
Complete the process by taking the Oath of Allegiance. Approval alone does not make an applicant a U.S. citizen.
For a closer review of these qualifications, read the U.S. citizenship eligibility requirements.
Timing
When Can You Apply for Naturalization?
The General Five-Year Rule
The most common path is available to lawful permanent residents who have held permanent resident status for at least five years and meet the other naturalization requirements.
The Three-Year Marriage Rule
Some permanent residents may apply after three years if they have been living in marital union with the same U.S. citizen spouse during the required period and that spouse has been a U.S. citizen for the required time. Being married to a U.S. citizen does not, by itself, automatically qualify someone under the three-year rule.
Military Naturalization
Current and former members of the U.S. armed forces may qualify under special naturalization provisions. The eligibility rules depend on when and how the person served, whether the service was honorable, and other statutory requirements.
Early Filing May Be Available
Some applicants filing under the three-year or five-year permanent residence rules may submit Form N-400 up to 90 calendar days before completing the required continuous residence period. Early filing does not shorten the other eligibility periods or requirements.
Application Overview
The Main Steps to Apply for U.S. Citizenship
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Confirm Your Eligibility
Review the residence, physical presence, travel, English, civics, and good moral character requirements before filing.
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Prepare Form N-400
Complete the Application for Naturalization accurately and gather the supporting records relevant to your case.
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Attend Biometrics if Required
USCIS may schedule an appointment to collect fingerprints, a photograph, or other identifying information.
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Prepare for the Interview and Tests
A USCIS officer will review your application and background. Most applicants must also complete English and civics testing unless they qualify for an exception or accommodation.
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Receive a Decision
USCIS may grant, continue, or deny the application. A continued case may require additional evidence or another opportunity to complete part of the testing.
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Take the Oath of Allegiance
After approval, attend a naturalization ceremony, take the Oath of Allegiance, and receive your Certificate of Naturalization.
See our full step-by-step explanation of the naturalization process for more detail.
Interview Preparation
Prepare for the English and Civics Tests
Most naturalization applicants must demonstrate basic English ability and knowledge of U.S. history and government during the USCIS interview.
Understand the Citizenship Civics Test
Review the test format, preparation considerations, and what applicants should expect.
Watch: The 2025 Citizenship Civics Test Explained
Watch Fred Wahl explain the civics test and how to prepare for the questions asked by USCIS.
Before You File
Issues That May Need Extra Attention
Naturalization can involve more than counting the years since receiving a green card. Review your history carefully if any of the following applies:
- You took one or more lengthy trips outside the United States.
- You lived or worked outside the United States after becoming a permanent resident.
- You did not file required tax returns or claimed to be a nonresident for tax purposes.
- You have arrests, citations, convictions, probation, or unresolved court matters.
- You received permanent residence through marriage and your marital situation changed.
- You are required to register for Selective Service but did not register.
- Information in an earlier immigration filing may be incomplete or inconsistent.
You should also check the current naturalization filing costs before preparing your application.
Related Guides
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