Become a U.S. Citizen

U.S. citizenship is the highest immigration status, providing you with full rights and protections under American law. As a citizen, you can vote, hold public office, travel with a U.S. passport, and never worry about losing your right to live in America. Take the final step in your American journey with confidence.

Check Your Eligibility →

Your Path to Citizenship

We guide you through every step of naturalization

1

Eligibility Review

Confirm you meet all requirements for naturalization

2

File N-400

Submit your naturalization application with supporting documents

3

Biometrics

Attend fingerprinting appointment for background check

4

Interview & Test

Pass the civics and English tests during your interview

5

Oath Ceremony

Take the Oath of Allegiance and receive your certificate

6

U.S. Citizen

Enjoy full rights and register to vote

Citizenship Requirements

To become a U.S. citizen through naturalization, you must meet these requirements.

Our attorneys will evaluate your specific situation and help you prepare a strong application.

1

Green Card Holder

Must be a lawful permanent resident for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).

5 years standard / 3 years if married
2

Continuous Residence

Maintained continuous residence in the U.S. without trips abroad exceeding 6 months.

No trips over 6 months
3

Physical Presence

Physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of the last 5 years (or 18 months out of 3 years).

30 months minimum presence
4

Age Requirement

Must be at least 18 years old at the time of filing the naturalization application.

18+ years old
5

Good Moral Character

Demonstrate good moral character for at least 5 years before filing, including paying taxes and avoiding criminal issues.

Clean record required
6

English & Civics

Pass English language and U.S. civics tests, with exceptions for certain ages and disabilities.

Test preparation included

THE PRIVILEGES OF CITIZENSHIP

What U.S. Citizenship Means for You

VOTING RIGHTS

Participate in democracy by voting in federal, state, and local elections. Have a voice in choosing your representatives and shaping America’s future.

U.S. PASSPORT

Travel the world with one of the most powerful passports. Receive protection from U.S. embassies and consulates wherever you go.

FAMILY SPONSORSHIP

Petition for more family members to immigrate, including parents, siblings, and married children, with priority processing times.

PERMANENT PROTECTION

Never face deportation and enjoy full constitutional protections. Your citizenship cannot be revoked except in extremely rare circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about becoming a U.S. citizen

The naturalization process typically takes 8-12 months from filing to oath ceremony, though times vary by location:
  • Application processing: 8-14 months
  • Biometrics appointment: 1-2 months after filing
  • Interview scheduling: 4-8 months after biometrics
  • Oath ceremony: 1-4 weeks after approval
Processing times can be longer in busy USCIS offices. We’ll help you track your case and respond promptly to any requests.
The naturalization test has two components that you must pass:

English Test: Demonstrate ability to read, write, and speak basic English. The officer will ask you to read a sentence aloud, write a sentence, and answer questions in English during your interview.

Civics Test: Answer 6 out of 10 questions correctly about U.S. history, government, and geography from a list of 100 possible questions.

Exceptions apply for: Applicants over 50 who’ve been permanent residents for 20+ years, over 55 for 15+ years (can take civics in native language), or those with qualifying disabilities.
The U.S. allows dual citizenship, so you can generally keep your original citizenship when becoming American. However, this depends on your home country’s laws:
  • Many countries allow dual citizenship (UK, Canada, Mexico, Philippines)
  • Some countries automatically revoke citizenship when you naturalize elsewhere
  • Others require you to apply to retain citizenship
Check with your home country’s embassy about their dual citizenship policies. The U.S. oath includes renouncing foreign allegiances, but this is generally not enforced against dual citizens.
Minor offenses don’t automatically disqualify you, but you must disclose everything:
  • Minor traffic violations: Generally not a problem unless DUI/DWI
  • Arrests without conviction: Must still be disclosed but usually okay
  • Misdemeanors: May require waiting period or additional documentation
  • Serious crimes: Aggravated felonies permanently bar naturalization
Be completely honest on your application. USCIS will run thorough background checks. We can help evaluate how your history affects eligibility and prepare explanations if needed.
Current USCIS fees for naturalization (N-400) are:
  • $760 – Application fee for most applicants
  • $0 – If you’re 75 or older (no biometrics required)
  • Fee waivers available for those receiving means-tested benefits or meeting income requirements
Additional costs may include attorney fees, translation services, and obtaining required documents. Many find the investment worthwhile for the permanent benefits of citizenship. Payment plans may be available for legal services.
Yes, you can travel internationally with your green card while your N-400 is pending. However:
  • Trips should not exceed 6 months (breaks continuous residence)
  • Notify USCIS if you’ll miss your biometrics or interview
  • Maintain U.S. residence and don’t move abroad
  • Be prepared to explain long or frequent trips at your interview
Keep records of all travel dates and purposes. Extended absences could delay your application or affect eligibility. We recommend minimizing international travel close to your interview date.
The oath ceremony is your final step to becoming a U.S. citizen:
  • Check-in: Return your green card and verify information
  • Take the Oath: Stand and recite the Oath of Allegiance with other new citizens
  • Receive Certificate: Get your Certificate of Naturalization (protect this document!)
  • Celebration: Often includes speeches, flag ceremony, and voter registration
You become a citizen the moment you take the oath. You can apply for a U.S. passport immediately after the ceremony and should register to vote. Many describe this as one of the most meaningful days of their lives.