In terms of translation, applying for U.S. citizenship is referred to as “Naturalization”. Foreign nationals seeking to become U.S. citizens through naturalization must meet specific requirements.
Generally speaking, a prerequisite for U.S. naturalization is that the foreign national holds permanent residency status within the United States. Additionally, the applicant must be at least 18 years old when submitting the naturalization application. These two requirements apply to applicants submitting applications independently; under certain special circumstances, applicants under the age of 18 may also file for naturalization.
Residency Requirements
Foreign national applicants must also meet specific U.S. residency requirements. Before submitting a naturalization application, they must have resided continuously in the United States for five years after obtaining legal permanent resident status. When filing the naturalization application, the applicant must have lived in a specific U.S. state or city for at least 6 months during the last half of this five-year continuous residency period.
If a foreign national is married to a U.S. citizen, the requirement is reduced to three years of continuous residency in the United States after obtaining legal permanent residency. Moreover, the marital relationship with their U.S. citizen spouse must remain intact.
Typically, permanent residents (green card holders) who leave the United States for no more than 6 months will not have their continuous residency status disrupted. If an absence exceeds 6 months, the period may be exempted during the naturalization application process if the foreign national can provide a valid explanation, such as being required to work overseas.
Additional Eligibility Criteria
- English Language Proficiency: To become a U.S. citizen, applicants must possess basic English language skills. Immigration officers will assess this proficiency through a test. However, some applicants with physical disabilities or advanced age may be exempt from this language requirement.
- Knowledge of U.S. History and Government: Applicants must have a basic understanding of U.S. history and government structures.
- Good Moral Character: Applicants must demonstrate good moral character and agree to abide by the provisions of the U.S. Constitution.
Naturalization Application Process
- Submit Application Materials: Generally, applicants need to complete and submit Form N-400, along with copies of their green card, photos, and the required application fee.
- Fingerprinting and Background Check: After submitting fingerprints, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will conduct a background check on the applicant.
- Interview and Tests: If the background check is successful, the applicant will receive a notice for an interview with an immigration officer. During the interview, the officer will administer an English proficiency test and a civics test for naturalization.
- Decision and Oath Ceremony: Immigration officers will determine if the applicant meets naturalization requirements based on the test results, usually providing a final decision on the day of the interview. If approved, USCIS will schedule an oath-taking ceremony. Upon completing the oath, the applicant will receive a Certificate of Naturalization.