A person becomes a US citizen either through naturalization, being born in the US, or being born to a US citizen. The most common path for someone to become a US citizen, who isn’t born a US citizen, is through a process called naturalization which allow a person to immigrate to the US. The naturalization process requires a successful application with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once an individual becomes a citizen, they can participate in many of the benefits afforded to US citizens (e.g., voting)
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What is Naturalization?
Naturalization is the legal process where a lawful permanent resident is granted US citizenship after meeting the requirements in the Immigration and Nationality Act. Naturalization is the greatest benefit the US offers pertaining to immigration. The US naturalized more than 8 million individuals over the last 10 years, according to uscis.gov.
What are the Requirements for US citizenship?
US citizenship requires a person to be at least 18 years old, and have been a lawful permanent resident (holding a Green Card) for at least 5 years or 3 years if you are married to a US citizen. In addition, the person must submit Form N-400 and go through a background check. Lastly, you must pass the naturalization test which includes a civics and English exam, and take the Oath of Allegiance to the United
How Do You Apply for US citizenship?
Submitting Form N-400 is how you apply for US citizenship. It is one of the most important documents in the naturalization process because without the Form N-400, the USCIS will not know. As stated earlier, a background check, passing the naturalization test, and an interview will be a part of the application process.
How to Prepare for your US Immigration Interview and Naturalization Test
To prepare for your US immigration interview and naturalization test, you need to rehearse with mock interviews and study and take full-length practice naturalization exams. It will be important to arrive on time for your appointment and dress professionally, if possible. The interview will be held at your local USCIS office or at the U.S. embassy or consulate closest to you. Please be professional and polite to the USCIS officer. Studies have shown that people with high test anxiety perform worse on exams, according to “The Nature and Treatment of Test Anxiety” by Charles Spielberger, Anton William, and Jeffrey Bedell. The USCIS offers study materials for both the civics test and the English portion of the exam on their website.
What are the Benefits of US Citizenship?
US Citizen offers benefits in the area of voting, employment, and access to government benefits. Many are of the benefits are detailed as the following:
- Voting, the eligibility to run for office in city, county, state, and federal elections, and participate in jury trials
- Ability to work in government and private sector jobs that require US citizenship
- Access to government assistance and welfare programs that are not available to non-citizens
- Immigration benefits such as the ability to sponsor family members, and being free from deportation, and expensive immigration filing fees.
- Visa free travel to countries in Europe and other parts of the world.
Obtaining US citizenship is a legal status, and serves as a symbol of belonging to a melting pot of a diverse nation.
What are the Exceptions for Naturalization?
The exceptions for naturalization are based on age, disability, military service which allow a quicker than normal path to being a US citizen.
If you are 65 years old or older and have been a lawful permanent resident for at least 20 years, you may be eligible for a reduced civics test with only 20 questions instead of 100. In addition, you may be able to take the civics test in your native language if a disability prevents you from learning English. A person that blind or with visual impairment, may take the citizenship test orally.
If a person participates in the military he or she only needs to be a lawful permanent resident for 3 years, instead of 5, before applying for US citizenship. Moreover, a soldier may automatically qualify for US citizenship, where they served during wartime.
What are the Naturalization Costs and Timeline?
The naturalization cost for naturalization includes the $760 (or $710 if filing online) filing fee for Form N-400. The timeline for naturalization ranges from 12 to 18 months. However, the timeline may last longer depending on USCIS workload, when you file your application, how long after you schedule your interview, exam, and Oath ceremony. In addition, cost can be significantly higher if you hire an immigration lawyer, buy practice exam, and have to include travel costs.
What if I Can Not Afford the Filing Fee?
Fee waivers are offered for low-income individuals who meet the threshold and can not afford the filing fee.
How to Become a Citizen in the United States
There are four ways to become a US citizen which include the following:
- Citizenship at birth where a person born in the US (jus soli) or born to a US citizen parent (jus sanguinis) while in the US is automatically a US citizen.
- Acquisition of citizenship where children born outside the US may acquire US citizenship automatically at birth if their parents meet specific criteria.
- Citizenship through derivation where children born outside the US may also derive US citizenship from a parent who went through the naturalization process.
- Citizenship through naturalization is the most common path for immigrants to become US citizens. Individuals seeking citizenship through naturalization must meet eligibility requirements as stated above, file an application with USCIS, pass a background check, interview and pass an exam, and take the Oath of Allegiance.
Can a Person have Dual Citizenship in the US?
Yes, a person can have dual citizenship in the US. There’s sometimes confusion about dual citizenship and the US While the US doesn’t officially endorse dual citizenship, it also doesn’t prohibit it. This was largely allowed in the Afroyim v. Rusk, US Supreme Court which allows US citizens the right to hold citizenship in another country without losing their US citizenship. However, dual citizenship may have tax implications and it will be important to avoid potential double taxation.
Final Words
Becoming a US citizen is a significant achievement and offers many benefits. However, the naturalization process can be complex and it will be important to hire an experienced immigration attorney to assist you. Plan carefully, complete the forms correctly and prepare for the exam and interview, and you will be a US citizen with all of the rights and privileges as as every other US citizen.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a US citizen?
The naturalization process typically takes anywhere from 12 to 18 months to complete, from filing your application to attending the Oath of Allegiance ceremony. However, processing times can vary depending on USCIS workload and your individual circumstances.
Can I become a US citizen if I have a criminal record?
Yes, you can become a US citizen if I have a criminal record depending on the circumstances. USCIS will consider the nature of the crime, how long ago it occurred, and your overall character. It will important to speak with an immigration lawyer on this matter.
What if I don’t speak English well?
You will need to prove basic English proficiency to pass the naturalization exam. However, there are some exceptions or modifications to the English language requirement for individuals with disabilities.
Can I lose my US citizenship?
Yes, you can lose your US citizenship if you commit fraud in obtaining citizenship, joining a foreign military without US permission, or renouncing your US citizenship formally.
Do I need a lawyer to become a US citizen?
No, you do not need a lawyer to become a US citizen, however, it can be helpful, especially if your situation is complex or you have questions about eligibility requirements. An immigration attorney can guide you through the process, ensure your application is complete and accurate, and represent you if any issues arise.
What are the benefits of becoming a US citizen?
The benefits of becoming a US citizen include voting rights, eligibility to run for office, greater job opportunities, access to government benefits, and the security of knowing you cannot be deported unless you commit a very serious crime.
