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In general, an individual over the age of 18 seeking to become a
citizen of the United States must apply for naturalization by filing
an Application for Naturalization, Form N-400. To be eligible
for naturalization, an applicant must fulfill certain eligibility
requirements set forth in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
These general eligibility requirements specify that the applicant
must:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Be a lawful permanent resident (green card holder)
- Have resided in the United States for at least five years
- Have been physically present in the United States for at
least 30 months
- Be a person of good moral character
- Be able to speak, read, write and understand the English
language
- Have knowledge of U.S. government and history
- Be willing and able to take the Oath of Allegiance Special
naturalization provisions exempt certain applicants from one or
more of the general requirements for naturalization.
Spouses of U.S. citizens and members of the military
constitute the main categories of individuals who are exempt
from some of the general requirements for naturalization.
- The majority of individuals naturalizing as spouses of
U.S. citizens may do so three years after being admitted as
lawful permanent residents, rather than the five years
prescribed under the general provisions. (This
provision applies as long as these persons are still married
to their US citizen spouses.)
- Spouses of U.S. citizens stationed abroad may not be
required to meet any particular residence or physical
presence requirement.
- Members of the military who served honorably during
certain periods of conflict may be eligible for
naturalization even though they have not been admitted as
lawful permanent residents and even if they are under the
age of 18.
- Members of the military who served honorably for at
least one year, at any time, and apply for naturalization
within a certain time after their military service, are also
exempt from the general residence and physical presence
requirements.
In addition to these naturalization provisions, the INA
also provides for the naturalization of children who are
under the age of 18.
- A child under the age of 18, who is a lawful
permanent resident residing in the United States in the
legal and physical custody of a U.S. citizen parent, may
acquire U.S. citizenship.
- To obtain evidence of U.S. citizenship, an
Application for Certificate of Citizenship, Form N-600,
must be filed on behalf of the child.
Alternatively, the child may apply for a US passport.
- There are exemptions benefiting children of
active-duty members of the military stationed abroad.
Persons filing an Application for Naturalization
who have submitted a complete application along with all
required documents will be scheduled for an interviewed
by a USCIS officer. Those applicants found qualified are
scheduled for an oath ceremony. Applicants do not
become U.S. citizens until they have taken the Oath.
Source: USCIS.gov. |
PLEASE NOTE: Immigration law and regulations change
frequently. In order to protect yourself you should make sure that
you understand the laws and how they apply to you. If you
have questions about your status, you should consult an expert. If you would like to be notified about recent
changes to this website, or if you would like to receive Immigration
Tips by email, please provide us with
your email address. If
you would like help from Ms. Chappell-Daly,
please contact her.
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