Congratulations on beginning your journey! This page provides a step-by-step guide on the process of becoming an American citizen, including the requirements and documents needed to prepare yourself.
The first step to becoming a citizen is becoming eligible to apply. You must meet several requirements, including having a permanent resident card and speaking English. You should seek advice from a qualified legal professional before applying for citizenship.
The number of documents you’ll need will vary depending on your circumstances. All applicants will need a permanent resident card. Some court or legal records may be required as well.
You must complete and submit form N-400, along with a check or money order for the filing fee. You may qualify to have your fees waived. To learn if you qualify, visit the USCIS website.
About 1-3 months after mailing your application, USCIS will send an appointment notice with your biometrics appointment date, time, and location. If you cannot attend, you must reschedule. Do not miss any appointments.
Sometimes USCIS may notify you that they will reuse fingerprints from their database, and you won’t need to attend the appointment. Keep an eye out for the interview notice you will receive
About 3-6 months after you submit your application forms, you will be called in for an interview. During the interview, you will be asked questions about your application and take a brief test on U.S. history and civics. For most people, the interview and test will be in English.
If you pass your interview, you can then participate in a naturalization ceremony. This could happen on the same day as your interview, if available. If a same-day naturalization ceremony is unavailable, USCIS will mail you a notification with the date, time, and location of your Scheduled ceremony.
Becoming a citizen often feels like the final step in the immigrant journey, but it is just the first step in toward civic involvement and self-empowerment. As a U.S. citizen, you attain the right to vote in national and local elections. Take advantage of this privilege by registering.
Becoming a citizen comes with several benefits, such as the ability to bring family members into the U.S., the ability to obtain citizenship for your children born abroad, access to greater job and financial opportunities, traveling with a U.S. passport, and the ability to become an elected official. There are also some important responsibilities, such as swearing allegiance to the U.S. and serving the country when required.
