What is Naturalization?

“Naturalization” is the process an immigrant goes through to become a legal citizen of the United States of America. Basically, 2 categories of immigrants are eligible to become U.S. citizens.

The first is green card holders, who have been permanent residents in the U.S. for 5 years, or 3 years if that permanent resident is married to a U.S. citizen. The second category is green card holders who have served in the U.S. military and meet all the requirements.

In this guide we will cover these questions:

• What is citizenship?
• How long is the naturalization process?
• How much does naturalization cost?
• What documents do I submit with my N-400?
• Should my documents be translated into English?
• Who is eligible to become a U.S. citizen through naturalization?
• What are the requirements for naturalization?
• Are there exceptions to the English and Civics test?
• How do you know if an applicant qualifies for an exemption based on disability?
• What are the steps of the naturalization process?
• What are the benefits of naturalization?
• What are the legal responsibilities of a U.S. citizen?
• Other frequently asked questions

What is citizenship?

Citizenship is the legal status of a person born in the U.S., born to U.S. citizens, or who has successfully gone through the naturalization process.

When someone becomes a U.S. citizen, they will experience many advantages, and also gain new responsibilities.

How long is the naturalization process?

The current processing time from filing your citizenship application, to attending your The Oath of Allegiance ceremony is currently between 6 and 14 months.

Processing time depends on various factors. These factors are the processing time for your Application for Naturalization, the date of your citizenship interview and test, and the date of your Oath of Allegiance ceremony.

How much does naturalization cost?

In general the cost to apply for naturalization is $725.

There are two primary costs that make up the overall price of the naturalization process. The first cost is the filing fee for the N-400, Application for Naturalization, which is $640. The second cost is the biometric fee which is $85.

There are some exceptions to these costs. For example, applicants 75 years or older will not have to pay the $85 biometric fee. In some cases, active military or veteran applicants also may have the fee waived. [Read full article]

What documents do I submit with my N-400?

The process of applying for citizenship through naturalization may require many different documents depending on each person’s situation. Here are the main documents you’ll be required to include.

• A copy of both sides of your green card as proof of your permanent resident status.
• Application fee payment by personal check, money order, or credit card using Form G-1450. Applicants requesting a reduced application fee should submit Form I-942. Applicants requesting a waiver of the application fee should submit Form I-912.
• If married or previously married, include relevant documents like marriage certificates, divorce decrees, annulment certificates, death certificates, or other official records.
• Proof of Identity: If applying from abroad, include two U.S. passport-style photos (2×2 inches).
• If you’re applying for citizenship based on military service, you should submit form N-426, Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service.
• If you’re seeking exemption from the citizenship test due to a medical condition, include Form N-648: Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions.

Should my documents be translated into English?

Yes, according to USCIS, if you submit a document with information in a foreign language, you must also submit an English translation.To guarantee that your naturalization application is processed quickly, it helps to use a certified translator.

Some documents that commonly need to be translated for immigration purposes include:

• Criminal records
• Birth certificates
• Death certificates
• Marriage certificates
• Divorce decrees
• Academic transcripts

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Who is eligible to become a U.S. citizen through naturalization?

Several things determine who is eligible for naturalization, and when they are eligible. There are 3 general factors to think about.

1. How long you have been a green card holder.
2. How long have you been physically present in the U.S.
3. Whether you served in the U.S. military, and if your service was during “peacetime” or “wartime”.

Below, a table breaks down the types of immigrants, and circumstances that determine if they are eligible to apply for naturalization. After the table, we will discuss the different types of immigrants from the table.

• If you are a green card holder with no special conditions

  You can apply for citizenship if you’ve had a green card for at least 5 years. You must also have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months, which is half of the 5 years.

• If you are a green card holder and the spouse of a U.S. citizen

  You can apply for citizenship after you’ve maintained the same permanent dwelling place as your spouse in the U.S. for 3 years. During those three years you must have maintained 18 months (1 and ½ years) of physical presence in the U.S.

• If you are the widow or widower of a U.S. citizen who was in the military, but died while serving honorably

  You can apply for citizenship without waiting. However, you must already have been a green card holder when your spouse died, and you must have been living with them when they died. You will not have to be a green holder for a specific amount of time, or live in the U.S. before applying for citizenship.

• If you are a green card holder with one year or more of peacetime military service, and you were honorably separated from the military

  You can apply while you are still active duty, or within 6 months of honorable separation from the military. In this situation, you do not need to have a green card for a certain amount of time before applying. You also do not have to be physically present in the U.S. before you can apply. You simply must have a green card at the moment you apply for citizenship.

• If you are a green card holder with less than 1 year of peacetime military service

  You can apply for U.S. citizenship five years after getting your green card. Additionally, you need to have physically lived in the United States for at least 30 months (2 and ½ years) out of those five years. Honorable service within this five-year period can count towards the time you’ve been physically present in the U.S.

• If you are a green card holder with at least 1 year of peacetime military service, who honorably separated from the military more than 6 months ago

  You can apply for U.S. citizenship five years after getting your green card. Additionally, you need to have physically lived in the United States for at least 30 months (2 and ½ years) out of those five years. Honorable service within this five-year period can count towards the time you’ve been physically present in the U.S.

• If you have served during wartime (aka “hostilities”) for any duration of time

  You do not have to be a green card holder to apply for citizenship. You also do not have to be physically present in the U.S. for a certain amount of time to apply for citizenship. However, you have to have been physically present in the U.S. or on a U.S. vessel at the time when you enlisted, reenlisted, or extended service in the military. Additionally, if you’ve separated from the military it must be under honorable conditions.

What are the requirements for naturalization?

Aside from the requirements listed above, you must meet the following criteria before you can apply for citizenship in the U.S.

1. You have to be at least 18 years of age.
2. You cannot have taken any trips of 6 months, or longer outside the U.S. during your 3 or 5 year waiting period of continuous residence.
3. You must be a legal resident of the state where you plan to apply for citizenship, for at least 3 months prior to applying.
4. You must be a person of “good moral character”, according to the U.S. government. The government will decide who is of “good moral character” on a case by case basis. It is difficult to define the label of “good moral character” in precise terms. However, here are some things the government specifically defines as wrong: murder, illegal drug possession, illegal gambling, giving false testimony, time in jail or prison, or any felony. You also must never have lied to the U.S. government for any reason.
5. If you are between the ages of 18 and 25, you will have to register with the selective service. This means you can be drafted for military service by the government.
6. You must be willing to support and defend the U.S. constitution.
7. Applicants will need to take a two part naturalization test. The first half is where the applicant proves they can read, write, speak, and understand English. The second half is a civics test where the applicant proves their knowledge of U.S. history and government. Applicants will have 2 chances to complete this test.

Are there exceptions to the English and Civics test?

Some people don’t have to take the test if they’re old enough or have certain disabilities.

How do you know if an applicant qualifies for an exemption based on disability?

To file a Form N-648, an applicant must be examined by a licensed medical or osteopathic doctor, or licensed clinical psychologist.

What are the steps of the naturalization process?

The naturalization process is a multi-step process through which an immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen. Below we will go over the 4 general steps in the naturalization process.

1. Officially apply for naturalization

   The application is called “N-400 Application for Naturalization”. You can file by mail to the address which USCIS designates. You can also file online, but you’ll need to first create an online account with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You must also pay the filing fee unless you are eligible for a fee waiver or reduction.

   You cannot apply online if you are applying for immigration benefits related to military service, applying from abroad, or requesting a fee reduction or waiver. Instead, you are required to submit your application via mail to the relevant USCIS office.

   There is a possibility to file 90 days before you’ve completed your 3 or 5 year waiting period as a lawful permanent resident. To take advantage of this, you must have met all the other eligibility requirements discussed above. Filing 90 days easily does not allow you to become a citizen earlier, it only allows you to start the filing process sooner.

2. Attend your biometrics appointment

   The purpose of the biometric services appointment is for USCIS to confirm your identity and run background and security checks on you. At your appointment, the main thing that will happen is having your fingerprints taken. To have this done, you will need to go to an in person appointment at a USCIS field office.

3. Naturalization interview and test

   The naturalization interview and test happen at the same time.

   In the interview, a USCIS officer will check the accuracy of the information in your naturalization application. Usually, the interview happens at a USCIS field office determined by your zip code. If you’re applying from another country, the interview will be at a U.S. embassy or consulate. For those in active military duty, the interview will likely occur at a military facility.

   After your interview you will take a two part naturalization test. The first half is where the applicant proves they can read, write, speak, and understand english. To show your English reading ability, you will need to correctly read aloud one sentence out of three options. To show your English writing ability, you will need to correctly write one sentence out of three options.

   The second half is a civics test where the applicant proves their knowledge of U.S. history and government. You will be asked 10 questions from a list of 100 questions. You must get 6 of the 10 questions correct.

   Applicants will have 2 chances to complete this test. The first chance will be during your interview. If you fail your first attempt, the second test will be scheduled by the USCIS officer within 60 to 90 days after the initial examination. The test is straightforward and USCIS provides materials for applicants to study and prepare.

4. Attend your naturalization ceremony

   If your naturalization application is approved, USCIS will schedule you for a naturalization ceremony. This ceremony is sometimes also called an “oath of allegiance ceremony“.

   You can think of this ceremony as the finish line. This is the final step, and you are not considered a U.S. citizen until you’ve attended this ceremony.

   After your citizenship interview, you will receive a notice in the mail that will provide you with the date, time, and location of the ceremony. The ceremony is typically held at a local courthouse or USCIS office. The scheduling of the ceremony can vary in duration depending on the state.

   When you check into the ceremony, you will give a USCIS officer your green card and you will no longer need it. After that you will take the oath of allegiance. After you take the oath of allegiance, you will receive your certificate of naturalization which is evidence that you are a U.S. citizen.

What are the benefits of naturalization?

After you’ve finished the naturalization process, you will benefit from all the advantages of life as a U.S. citizen. In this section we will discuss these lifestyle changes and benefits.

Will I be able to vote?

As a green card holder you might have been able to vote in local and state elections. As a U.S. citizen you can participate in all elections, including federal elections. Learn How to Register To Vote.

Will I be able to run for office?

As a U.S. citizen, you’ll be able to run for most political offices such as city council members, mayor, state legislator, or county commissioner.

Will I still have to fill out immigration forms?

No, as a U.S. citizen you have the right to remain within the United States without continually renewing documents or informing the government. You will also be able to travel more easily, and move within the United States more easily.

Will I have access to government assistance programs?

Yes, as a U.S. citizen you’ll have access to government assistance programs for financial and medical aid that were unavailable to you as a green card holder. Some examples of these programs are social security benefits, medicaid and medicare, unemployment benefits, pell grants, and federal student loans.

Can citizens be deported?

No, as a U.S. citizen, you cannot be removed from the United States and taken to another country. If you are arrested or convicted your discipline will take place within the United States.

Can I sponsor relatives who want to immigrate to the U.S.?

Yes, as a U.S. citizen it will be much easier for you to sponsor relatives who wish to immigrate to the U.S.A. and obtain their green card.

Will my children be U.S. citizens after I’ve naturalized?

Yes, you and your child must still meet certain eligibility requirements and complete the proper paperwork. But, it is much easier for your child to attain citizenship if you’re already a U.S. citizen.

Will I get a U.S. passport after I become a naturalized citizen?

Yes, as a U.S. citizen you can apply for a U.S. passport and it typically takes 10 to 13 weeks before you receive it in the mail. With a U.S. passport, you’ll then be able to travel to hundreds of countries around the world without getting a visa first. You’ll also have some protection from U.S. consulates or embassies in other countries if you need help while you’re abroad.

What are the legal responsibilities of a U.S. citizen?

While becoming a citizen of the U.S. comes with many benefits, it also comes with responsibilities and civic duties which we will discuss below.

Will I have to renounce citizenship in my home country to become a U.S. citizen?

Depending on the rules of your home country regarding dual citizenship, you might have to give up your original citizenship when becoming a U.S. citizen. The United States allows dual citizenship, but it requires U.S. citizens to use their U.S. passports when traveling to and from the United States.

Many countries such as Italy, Mexico, and Argentina, recognize dual citizenship. However, some other major countries such as India, China, and Saudi Arabia, do not recognize dual citizenship. So it is important to check if you’re allowed to maintain citizenship in your home country before beginning the naturalization process in the U.S. Or, it is important to ask yourself if you’re willing to renounce citizenship in your home country.

As a U.S. citizen, will I have to serve in the military?

In normal circumstances, you will not be required to join the military. However, there is a legal framework that allows the United States to enforce a draft if they need military personnel. Almost all male citizens between the ages of 18 and 25 must register for selective service. The selective service is how the military knows which people are available to be drafted into military service.

As a U.S. citizen, will I need to serve on a jury?

In the United States, citizens are legally required to serve on a jury, only if you are summoned. Citizens may be randomly summoned to serve in state or federal courts. If you are summoned, this does not necessarily mean you will serve. Only people who are chosen by the legal system will definitely serve.

The rules for each state and federal court are different, but you may be exempt from jury duty for a number of reasons. For example, firefighters, police officers, or ambulance workers may be exempt from jury duty. Similarly, you may be exempt from federal jury duty if you’re above the age of 71. You may also be exempt from state or local jury duty based on age, but each city and state has different rules.

Lastly, you may be exempt from jury duty if you can prove you have unavoidable travel plans, medical complications, or that jury duty causes undue burden.

Will I have to file income tax in the U.S. if I move abroad?

As a U.S. citizen, you are required to file U.S. income tax returns even if you live abroad. However, you can exclude a certain amount of foreign income (up to $120,000 in 2023) from being taxed, as long as you meet specific requirements. Any income exceeding that limit will generally be subject to taxation. Additionally, you might be eligible to exclude or deduct foreign housing costs from your taxable income.

Other frequently asked questions

Does an applicant’s military service have to be consecutive for it to equal one year?

No, different periods of military service can be added up to equal one year. For example, a person can serve 6 months, take a break, and then serve 6 more months at a later time.

Does a naturalization applicant’s separation from the military have to be honorable?

Yes, to qualify for naturalization your separation from the military usually must be “honorable”. This definition was updated in 2022 so that “General-Under Honorable Conditions,” and “Uncharacterized”, both qualify as honorable conditions for immigration purposes.

What does being “physically present” in the United States mean?

The government uses the term “physically present” to refer to an applicant’s physical body being located within the United States. So, having an address is not the same thing as being physically present. Generally, an applicant needs to be physically present for half of their “continuous residence” waiting time.

What does “peacetime” military service mean?

Peacetime military service refers to times when a person is a member of the U.S. military, but the United States is not actively engaged in a war.

What if I cannot afford the filing fee?

If you cannot afford the filing fee for the N-400, Application for Naturalization, you can apply for a fee reduction or a fee waiver.

What does “wartime” military service mean?

Wartime military service refers to times when a person is a member of the U.S. military while the United States is actively engaged in war. “Designated periods of hostilities” is also a name used to refer to wartime. The government currently defines the below time periods as “periods of hostilities.”

• April 6, 1917 – November 11, 1918
• September 1, 1939 – December 31, 1946
• June 25, 1950 – July 1, 1955
• February 28, 1961 – October 15, 1978
• August 2, 1990 – April 11, 1991
• September 11, 2001 – Present

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Author: Aaron Randolph | LinkedIn