How To Apply for citizenship in the United States.
Would you like to become a US citizen?The right to vote in US elections, avoid deportation from the US, and have a broad array of work opportunities are just a few of the benefits of becoming a US citizen.You'll learn about eligibility requirements, the application process, and the tests you need to pass in order to become a US citizen.
Step 1: You have to be at least 18 years old.
No matter how long you have lived in the United States, you must be 18 years of age to take the naturalization process.
Step 2: You must show that you've lived in the US for at least five years.
Your green card shows when you were granted permanent resident status.Five years from that date, you can begin the naturalization process.If you are married to a US citizen, you can start the naturalization process after living as a permanent resident with your spouse for three years.If you have served in the US armed forces for more than a year, you don't have to show five years of continuous residence.If you left the US for six months or more, your permanent resident status may have been disrupted, and you may need to make up the time before applying to become a citizen.
Step 3: You should be present in the United States.
If you are out of the country, you may not apply for US citizenship.
Step 4: Good moral character is what you should have.
The criminal record will be taken into account by the USCIS to determine if you have good moral character.If you commit crimes with the intent to harm a person, terrorist acts, drug or alcohol related crimes, hate crimes and other types of crimes you could be disqualified from the naturalization process.Lying to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services about past crimes is grounds for denial of your application.Minor incidents and traffic fines will not affect your application.
Step 5: You have to be able to read, write and speak English.
As part of the application process, exams will be administered on these subjects.There are less stringent language requirements for applicants over a certain age.
Step 6: Understand US history and government.
As part of the application process, a civics exam will be administered.There are less rigorous civics requirements for applicants over a certain age.
Step 7: An attachment to the Constitution is demonstrated.
The Oath of Allegiance is the final step in becoming a US citizen.Be prepared to say "Renounce foreign allegiances".Support the constitution.As part of the armed forces, serve the United states.
Step 8: You need to complete the citizenship application.
Click "Forms" to download form N-400.Answer all the questions in the form.If you miss anything, your application may be delayed or denied, and you will likely have to appeal.
Step 9: There are two photographs that have been taken.
You can get passport-style photos within 30 days of filling out your application at a location that is familiar with the specific requirements.The photos need to be printed on thin paper with a white space around the head.If you want to cover your head for religious reasons, your face should be visible.You can write your name and number in pencil on the back of the images.
Step 10: You can mail your application to the Lockbox.
You can find the address of the facility.Your photos should be included with your application.You have a copy of your permanent resident card.According to your circumstances, other documents are necessary.The required application fee can be found on the "forms" page.
Step 11: You have to get fingerprints.
You will be asked to come to a certain location to have your fingerprints taken when the USCIS receives your application.The FBI will perform a criminal background check on your fingerprints.You may need to provide additional information if your fingerprints are rejected.You will receive a notice in the mail if your fingerprints are accepted, telling you where and when your interview will be held.
Step 12: The interview needs to be completed.
During your interview, you will be asked a number of questions about your background, character, and willingness to take the Oath of Allegiance.An English test with reading, writing and speaking components is part of the interview process.You have to answer at least six questions correctly in order to pass the civics test.
Step 13: Wait for the decision.
After your interview, your citizenship will either be granted or denied.If you become a US citizen, you will be invited to complete the naturalization process.You can appeal the decision if your naturalization is denied.When additional documents are needed, you will be asked to provide them and undergo a second interview if your naturalization is continued.
Step 14: There is a naturalization ceremony.
You will become a US citizen at the ceremony.What you have done since the interview will be answered during the event.You need to turn in your permanent resident card.Take the oath of patriotism.The official document stating that you are a US citizen is your Certificate of Naturalization.