Do you dream of obtaining US citizenship? Winning the right to vote, avoiding deportation and having more job opportunities are just some of the benefits of the naturalization process. Here are the eligibility requirements and the process you will need to go through.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: The Eligibility Requirements
Step 1. You must be over 18 to begin the naturalization process, even if you have lived in the States for years
Step 2. Prove that you have lived as a permanent resident of the country for five consecutive years
The permanent residence card, called the “green card”, indicates the date on which you obtained this privilege.
- A person married to a US citizen can begin the process after living as a permanent resident for three years, not five.
- If you have served in the US military for more than a year, you do not need to prove continuous residency.
- If you have left the United States for six months or more, you have terminated your permanent resident status, and you must therefore make up your absence before you can apply for citizenship.
Step 3. You will need to be physically present in the United States
In most cases, it is not possible to apply for citizenship outside the country.
Step 4. The USCIS will determine your moral and civil character
What will it consider:
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Your criminal registry will then assess whether you have ever injured someone or been involved in terrorist acts or alcohol and drug related crimes.
Remember that if you lie you will be excluded
- Fines for traffic offenses and minor accidents will not disqualify you.
Step 5. You will need to be able to read, write and speak basic English
You will be subjected to an examination during the process.
Candidates who are over a certain age or who have a disability will receive less stringent language requirements
Step 6. Learn about the most important milestones in US and government history:
you will have to take an exam on this too.
Also in this case the test will be less demanding towards elderly and disabled people
Step 7. The Oath of Allegiance will be the final step in becoming a US citizen
Be prepared to swear to:
- Be loyal to the country.
- Support the Constitution.
- Serve the United States as a member of the military or through civilian engagement.
Part 2 of 3: The Request for Naturalization
Step 1. Complete the request
Download the N-400 form from www. USCIS.gov (click on “Forms”). Answer all the questions: if you miss something, the process could be prolonged or you could be excluded, and you will have to appeal.
Step 2. Attach two passport photos in color
The face must be fully visible, unless it is covered for religious reasons. Lightly write your name and A number with a pencil behind the pictures. Maybe take them in the studio of a photographer who knows all the parameters.
Step 3. Submit the application to a USCIS Lockbox
Find the address of the one in your region. Here's what to send:
- Your Photos.
- A copy of your permanent resident card.
- Other documents required under the circumstances.
- The tax bulletin (check the “Forms” page at www. USCIS.gov).
Step 4. Upon receiving your request, USCIS will ask you to go and have your fingerprints taken, which will be sent to the FBI for criminal screening
- If your fingerprints are rejected, you will need to provide additional information to USCIS.
- If they are accepted, you will receive a notification by mail telling you where and when to show up for the interview.
Part 3 of 3: Completing the Process
Step 1. During the interview they will ask you questions about your application, your past, your personality and your willingness to declare the Oath of Allegiance
The process also includes:
- An English exam to assess your written and oral comprehension and your writing skills.
- A test on the history of the USA. You will have to answer at least six questions correctly to pass it.
Step 2. After the interview, your naturalization can be accepted, denied or continued should changes need to be made
- If you get it, you will be invited to complete the process.
- If it is denied, you will have to appeal. Check it out here: appealing the decision.
- If continued, which happens when additional documents are needed, you will be required to provide them and will have to undergo a second interview.
Step 3. Attend the naturalization ceremony
During the event you will need to:
- Answer questions about actions taken since the interview date.
- Return the permanent residence card.
- Pledge your loyalty through the Oath of Allegiance.
- Receive your Certificate of Naturalization, the official document certifying your citizenship.
Advice
- Improve your knowledge of English and the history of the country. On the internet you will find resources to try these tests.
- If you are fluent in English you will be exempted from the test.
- The exemption from both the test and civic exams applies to participants who have resided in the US for more than 15-20 years and those who are older.
- Don't skip the interview without notifying USCIS. If you don't show up, your case will be closed and the naturalization process postponed for several months.
