To become a citizen, you need to go through a process called naturalization, and there are some important U.S. citizenship requirements you must meet. Becoming a U.S. citizen is a big step that comes with new rights and opportunities.
Here are the requirements you will need to meet to become a U.S. citizen.
- Be a Green Card Holder (Permanent Resident)
You must have a green card to apply for U.S. citizenship. You need to have had a green card for- 5 years, or
- 3 years if you’re married to a U.S. citizen. During this time, you must live in the U.S. and meet other criteria.
- Continuous Residency and Physical Presence
- Continuous Residency: You must have lived in the U.S. for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen) without taking long trips outside the country. If you leave the U.S. for more than 6 months at a time, it could affect your application.
- Physical Presence: You must have spent 30 months (2.5 years) out of the last 5 years in the U.S., or 18 months out of 3 years if you’re married to a U.S. citizen.
- Good Moral Character
You need to show you’ve been a good, law-abiding person, which means you must- not have committed serious crimes.
- have been truthful throughout the application process.
- have been paying taxes and supporting your family.
- Basic English Skills
You must know basic English, which means you should be able to read, write, and speak. You’ll have to go through a test as a part of the naturalization process. Getting through this test is crucial to move to the next step in the citizenship process. However, there are exceptions to the naturalization test for older people. - Pass a Civics Test
You need to pass a civics test, in which you will have to answer questions on U.S. history and government. You’ll be asked 10 questions and need to get six right. USCIS provides study materials, and some people may have easier test options depending on age and residency. - Oath of Allegiance
You must be willing to take an Oath of Allegiance, where you promise to support the U.S. Constitution, follow its laws, and be ready to serve the country if needed. - Submit Form N-400 and Pay Fees
To begin the U.S. citizenship process, you will need to submit Form N-400, Application for Naturalization and pay a fee of $725. Some people may qualify for a fee waiver based on financial need. - Selective Service Registration (for Men)
If you’re a male between 18 and 26 years old, you must register for the Selective Service (military draft). Failure to do so could delay your citizenship.
How Imagility Can Help
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