10 Steps to Naturalization

A Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a U.S. Citizen

Becoming a U.S. citizen is a big deal and comes with big rights and big responsibilities. This guide breaks it down into 10 easy steps with fresh insights and tips to help you succeed.

Before you apply for citizenship, it’s important to know if you meet the eligibilty requirements. Understanding the citizenship application process, including key steps like submitting Form N-400, attending biometrics appointments, and preparing for interviews, is crucial. Check to see if you qualify for any exceptions and accommodations.

Step 1: Are You Already a U.S. Citizen?

Before you start the naturalization application process, check if you might already be a U.S. citizen.

What to do:

By Birth: If you were born in the United States or certain U.S. territories, you are a citizen by birth.
Through Parents: If one or both of your parents were U.S. citizens when you were born, you may have acquired or derived citizenship automatically.
If not, go to the next step.

Step 2: Are You Eligible for Naturalization?

Eligibility for naturalization depends on residency, age, and good moral character, and navigating the citizenship process.

What to do:

Use the Naturalization Eligibility Worksheet to see if you qualify.
Key requirements:
Be at least 18 years old.
Have been a lawful permanent resident (Green Card) for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
Meet physical presence and continuous residency requirements.
Be of good moral character.
Pass the English and civics tests.

Step 3: Fill out Form N-400, Application for Naturalization

Form N-400 is your application for naturalization.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is responsible for processing Form N-400.

What to do:

Create an Account: File online and track your application.
Fill out Form N-400. Follow the instructions carefully to avoid delays.
Use the Document Checklist.
Gather Documents:
Permanent Resident Card (Green Card).
Proof of marital status (if applicable).
Evidence of physical presence in the U.S.
2 passport-style photos (if applying from outside the U.S.).

Step 4: Submit Form N-400 and Pay

What to do:

File Form N-400 online or by mail.
Pay the application fee online (currently $760 if file by mail; $710 if file online).
Once you submit, USCIS will send you a receipt notice with your application.
Use the receipt number to check your case status and processing times online.

Step 5: Biometrics Appointment (If Required)

Biometrics is the process of taking your fingerprints, photo and signature.

What to do:

Look for an appointment notice from USCIS with the date, time and location.
Be on time and bring the appointment notice, Green Card and any other required documents.
Complete the biometrics process.

Step 6: USCIS Interview

This is the final step to determine your citizenship and includes the crucial citizenship test.

What to do:

USCIS will schedule an interview and send you a notice with the details.
Bring:
Appointment notice.
Identification documents (Green Card, passport, state ID).
Any additional evidence USCIS asked for.
Be prepared to:
Answer questions about your application and background.
Pass the English and civics tests.

Step 7: USCIS’s Decision

After the interview, USCIS will make a decision on your application.

Results:

Approved: Your application is approved and you can take the Oath of Allegiance.
Continued: USCIS may ask for additional evidence or reschedule tests you didn’t pass.
Denied: If you are found not eligible, USCIS will tell you why.

Step 8: Oath of Allegiance Notice

What to do:

If approved, USCIS may schedule your naturalization ceremony the same day as your interview.
If not, they will mail you a notice with the date, time and location.
Check your USCIS account for electronic notices.

Step 9: Take the Oath

This is the official ceremony to become a United States citizen.

What to do:

Form N-445: Review and answer the questionnaire you get with your Oath Ceremony notice.
Check-In: Bring your Green Card and Form N-445.
Hand in your Green Card: You’ll give this up as part of the process.
Take the Oath: Pledge to the U.S.
Get your Certificate: Review your Certificate of Naturalization before you leave.

Step 10: Enjoy Your Rights and Responsibilities

As a U.S. citizen you have new rights and responsibilities.

Rights:

Right to vote.
Eligibility for federal jobs and elected offices.
Sponsor relatives for immigration.

Responsibilities:

Participate in the democratic process.
Serve on a jury when called.
Stay engaged and involved.

More Support

Additional Resources

Man raising hand during a naturalization ceremony

Naturalization FAQs

General

Do I need a lawyer to apply for citizenship?

No, you don’t need a lawyer to apply. You can fill out and file Form N-400 on your own. But some people may want to get help from an immigration attorney or an Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) accredited representative. If you do get help, make sure the person helping you is authorized to provide immigration services.
Key
i. Visit the Citizenship Resource Center for resources and study materials.
ii. Be careful of unauthorized immigration service providers. Only attorneys or EOIR-accredited representatives can give advice or communicate with USCIS on your behalf.

How much is the Form N-400 filing fee?

$760 if you file by mail. $710 if you file online. Some applicants may be eligible for fee waivers or reductions in filing fees.

How long does it take to naturalize?

5 to 10 months from the time you file Form N-400 to the Oath of Allegiance ceremony. Processing time varies by location and case complexity.

Naturalization Test

Does USCIS publish the naturalization test questions?

Yes, USCIS publishes the entire list of civics questions. For the 2008 test, you’ll be asked 10 questions from a pool of 100 and must answer 6 correctly. Study materials for the civics and English tests are available on the USCIS website.

How often do USCIS update the naturalization test questions?

The questions themselves don’t change often, but some answers may be updated due to elections, appointments or other current events. Check the Civics Test Updates page for the latest.

What if I don’t pass a part of the naturalization test?

If you don’t pass the English or civics part of the test, you’ll get one retest. USCIS will schedule a new interview within 60-90 days of your initial interview to retake only the part you didn’t pass.

What is the English speaking test?

During the interview, the USCIS officer will ask you questions based on your Form N-400 to see how well you speak and understand English. Make sure you understand the questions on the application and can explain your answers.

Residency and Travel

Can I live abroad while I prepare for naturalization?

No. To naturalize, you must show continuous residence in the U.S. for at least 5 years (or 3 years if you’re applying as the spouse of a U.S. citizen). Long absences can break this requirement.
Important Notes:
i. Trips over 180 days may break your continuous residence.
ii. Frequent short trips that add up to more than half your time outside the U.S. may disqualify you from the “physical presence” requirement.

What’s the difference between “continuous residence” and “physical presence”?

Continuous Residence: You must maintain a primary residence in the U.S. without long absences.
Physical Presence: You must physically be in the U.S. at least half of the required residency period (e.g. 30 months out of 5 years).

Can I travel internationally while my application is pending?

Yes, but you must notify USCIS of any travel during the application process. Don’t let your trips interfere with continuous residence and physical presence.

Interview and Documentation

Do I need to bring original documents to the naturalization interview?

Yes, you must bring:
i. Birth certificate.
ii. Marriage or divorce certificates (if applicable).
iii. Green Card (Permanent Resident Card).
iv. Certified copies of court or legal records (if applicable).
Tip: Submitting certified copies of required documents with your application can save time at the interview.

Can I change my name during the naturalization process?

Yes, you can:
i. Before the Oath Ceremony: Notify USCIS of your name change and provide documentation (e.g. marriage certificate or court order).
ii. At the Oath Ceremony: Request a name change through USCIS, which will file a petition with the court on your behalf. Name changes finalized through USCIS require a judicial Oath of Allegiance ceremony.

What will they ask me during the interview?

The USCIS officer will review your Form N-400 and ask you questions to verify the information. They may also ask about your background, travel history and naturalization eligibility.

Application Process

What happens after I file Form N-400?

USCIS will send you a receipt notice as part of the citizenship application process.
You can check your case status and processing times online.

What if my Green Card expires while my application is pending?

Filing Form N-400 extends the validity of your Green Card for 24 months. The receipt notice for your application and your expired Green Card is proof of lawful permanent residence. If you lose your receipt notice, file Form I-90 to renew your Green Card.

Can I withdraw my application?

Yes, you can withdraw your application at any time by writing to USCIS. Fees are generally non-refundable.

Medical and Disability Accommodations

When should I submit Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions?

If you have a qualifying disability or impairment that prevents you from meeting the English or civics test requirements, submit Form N-648:
When you file Form N-400.
Or anytime before the naturalization interview.

How will I know if my Form N-648 is approved?

The decision will be made during the naturalization interview. If approved:
The officer will conduct the interview and administer tests with accommodations.
You can use an interpreter if needed. If denied, the officer will proceed with the regular interview and testing process.

More Questions

Can I file for naturalization multiple times?

Yes, there is no limit. But you must pay the application fee each time you file Form N-400.

Passing the civics and English tests guarantee approval?

No. In addition to passing these tests, you must:
i. Meet all other requirements.
ii. Pass the speaking test during the interview.

What if my application is denied?

You will receive a letter explaining the reason for denial. If you disagree with the decision, you can:
i. File Form N-336, Request for a Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings.
ii. File a new Form N-400.

What is the Oath of Allegiance?

The Oath of Allegiance is the final step in the process. By taking the naturalization Oath ceremony, you are swearing loyalty to the U.S. and committing to the responsibilities of citizenship. After taking the Oath, you will receive your Certificate of Naturalization.

Get Ready

How can I prepare for the test and interview?

i. Review USCIS’s study materials for the English and civics tests.
ii. Take online practice tests.
iii. Sign up for free or low-cost citizenship classes in your area.

Where can I get help with my application?

i. USCIS Citizenship Resource Center: Study materials, test guides, and more.
ii. Find Help in Your Community: Organizations that can assist.
iii. Free naturalization info sessions by USCIS.

Now you’re better equipped to navigate the process. Good luck!

By doing this you’ll not only become a U.S. citizen but also be able to fully be part of the American way. Good luck!