Naturalization is the legal process that allows an immigrant to become a U.S. citizen. Immigrants who meet specific criteria, such as being a green card holder (permanent resident) for 3–5 years or meeting military service requirements, can apply for naturalization.
Is Naturalization the Same as Citizenship?
Although related, naturalization and citizenship are not exactly the same. Citizenship is the status of a person in a country, which can happen by birth or through naturalization. Naturalization is the process a non-citizen goes through to become a citizen after fulfilling certain legal requirements, like living in the U.S., speaking English, and passing a civics test.
How Long Does It Take to Get U.S. Citizenship?
On average, it takes about 4.9 months from submitting your application to attending the Oath of Allegiance ceremony.
What’s the Fastest Way to Become a U.S. Citizen?
Marrying a U.S. citizen is the quickest way. Green card holders married to U.S. citizens can apply for naturalization after just three years of residency. Military service members may also qualify for faster processing.
How Much Does It Cost to Apply for Naturalization?
The filing fee for U.S. citizenship applications is currently $760. Military applicants are exempt from this fee. You can also receive a $50 discount if you apply online.
Who Is Eligible for Naturalization?
Eligibility depends on several factors, including how long you’ve held your green card, how long you’ve lived in the U.S., and if you have served in the U.S. military. Below is a summary of eligibility requirements:
| Situation | Time Living in the U.S. | When You Can Apply |
| Green card holder with no special circumstances | 30 months (2.5 years) | After 5 years |
| Green card holder married to a U.S. citizen | 18 months (1.5 years) | After 3 years |
| Widow/widower of a U.S. citizen who died while serving in the military | No requirement | Anytime |
| Green card holder with 1+ year of peacetime military service | No requirement | While active duty or within 6 months of discharge |
| Wartime military service member | No requirement | Anytime |
Naturalization Requirements
To apply for naturalization, you must meet the following basic criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have not taken any trips lasting six months or more outside the U.S. during your wait period.
- Have lived in the state where you’re applying for at least 3 months.
- Show good moral character (no serious criminal record).
- Pass an English and civics test (unless exempted).
- Be willing to serve in the U.S. military or perform civilian service if needed.
- Males aged 18-25 must register with the Selective Service.
Special Exceptions for Certain Applicants
- Older Applicants: Those aged 50+ (with 20+ years as a green card holder) or 55+ (with 15+ years as a green card holder) may be exempt from the English test.
- Medical Disabilities: Applicants with medical conditions may be exempt from the English and civics test with proper documentation.
- Military Service: those who served in wartime or peacetime may have special exemptions from certain naturalization requirements.
How to Apply for U.S. Citizenship
The process for applying includes the following steps:
- Submit Form N-400: This is the Application for Naturalization. You’ll need to pay the filing fee (unless exempt).
- Attend Biometrics Appointment: You will have your fingerprints taken for a background check.
- Citizenship Interview and Test: You’ll meet with a USCIS officer who will verify your application and test your English skills and knowledge of U.S. history and government.
- Take the Oath of Allegiance: If approved, you will attend a ceremony and take the Oath of Allegiance to become a U.S. citizen.
Benefits of Becoming a U.S. Citizen
As a U.S. citizen, you gain several important benefits, including:
- Voting rights in federal elections.
- Eligibility to run for office.
- Access to government jobs.
- No more immigration paperwork like green card renewals.
- Access to federal assistance programs, such as Social Security and Medicare.
- Protection from deportation unless you lose your citizenship due to fraud.
- Ability to sponsor family members for immigration.
- Automatic citizenship for your children under certain conditions.
- U.S. passport with visa-free access to many countries.
Special Considerations
Before applying, it’s important to understand some key responsibilities of U.S. citizenship:
- Dual Citizenship: The U.S. allows dual citizenship, but you may need to give up citizenship from another country depending on its laws.
- Military Service: Although the draft is not currently active, you may be called upon if reinstated.
- Jury Duty: U.S. citizens may be required to serve on a jury if called.
- Income Taxes: U.S. citizens must file tax returns regardless of where they live.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a naturalized citizen?
A naturalized citizen is someone born outside the U.S. who has gone through the naturalization process to become a U.S. citizen.
What’s the difference between naturalization and citizenship?
Naturalization is the process of becoming a citizen, while citizenship is the status of being a member of the U.S.
Can you apply for naturalization without a green card?
Typically, you need a green card to apply for naturalization, though certain military members may apply without one.
What does “peacetime” and “wartime” mean for military service?
“Peacetime” refers to periods without active war, while “wartime” includes specific conflicts like World War II and the War on Terrorism.
Naturalization is a big step toward becoming a full member of the U.S., with many rights and responsibilities. If you’re considering applying, it’s important to understand the process, requirements, and benefits to make informed decisions about your future.
