What is naturalization? Naturalization in the United States is the process by which a foreign national becomes a U.S. citizen after fulfilling specific requirements set by Congress in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

#Eligibility Requirements

Permanent Residency: To be eligible for naturalization, an individual must first be a lawful permanent resident (LPR), commonly known as holding a green card. Typically, an LPR must have held this status for at least five years, though this period is reduced to three years for those married to a U.S. citizen.

Continuous Residence and Physical Presence: Applicants must demonstrate continuous residence in the U.S. for at least five years (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen). They must also show they have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months within the five-year period (or 18 months within the three-year period).

Good Moral Character: Good moral character is a crucial requirement. Applicants must not have committed certain crimes or engaged in activities that would reflect poorly on their character. This includes not having been involved in illegal activities, fraud, or serious misdemeanors.

English Language Proficiency: Applicants must be able to read, write, and speak basic English. There are exceptions for older applicants with long-term residency and those with certain disabilities.

Civics Knowledge: Applicants must demonstrate knowledge of U.S. history and government. This is assessed through a civics test during the naturalization interview.

Oath of Allegiance: Taking the Oath of Allegiance is the final step in the naturalization process. Applicants pledge to support and defend the U.S. Constitution and laws, renounce any foreign allegiances, and bear arms on behalf of the U.S. if required.

#The Naturalization Process

Application Submission: The process begins with the submission of Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The form requires detailed information about the applicant’s background, residence, and employment history.

Biometrics Appointment: After the application is submitted, applicants attend a biometrics appointment where their fingerprints, photograph, and signature are collected for background checks.

Interview: The next step is the naturalization interview with a USCIS officer. During this interview, the officer reviews the application, asks questions about the applicant’s background, and administers the English and civics tests.

Decision: After the interview, USCIS will make a decision on the application. If approved, the applicant will receive a notice to attend a naturalization ceremony.

Oath Ceremony: The final step is the Oath of Allegiance ceremony. At this event, applicants take the oath, officially becoming U.S. citizens. They receive a Certificate of Naturalization as proof of their new status.