How to Become a U.S. Citizen (Naturalization)

Most green card holders who want U.S. citizenship get it through naturalization, a process run by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Here is how it works in broad strokes.

Who is eligible

The most common requirements are:

• You are at least 18 and a lawful permanent resident (green card holder).
• You have held your green card for 5 years, or 3 years if you have been married to and living with a U.S. citizen during that time.
• You have continuous residence and enough physical presence in the U.S. Long trips abroad can break continuous residence.
• You have lived for at least 3 months in the state or USCIS district where you apply.
• You show good moral character, can read, write and speak basic English, and pass a civics test on U.S. history and government. Some older, long-time residents and people with certain disabilities can qualify for exceptions.

Special rules apply to people who served in the U.S. military.

The main steps

1. Check eligibility carefully, including your travel history and any arrests or tax problems.
2. File Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization, online or by mail, with the filing fee. Fees change, so check the current amount on the USCIS fee page before you file. You can file up to 90 days before you reach your 5- or 3-year mark.
3. Biometrics appointment for fingerprints and photos.
4. Interview, where an officer reviews your application and gives the English and civics tests.
5. Decision. The application can be granted, continued for more evidence, or denied.
6. Oath ceremony. You become a citizen when you take the Oath of Allegiance.

When to talk to an immigration lawyer

Get advice before filing if you have any arrest or conviction, even an old or dismissed one; long trips outside the U.S.; unpaid taxes; a past immigration violation; or any doubt about how you got your green card. Applying for citizenship puts your whole record in front of USCIS, and some problems can put a green card at risk.

See also how to choose an immigration lawyer and the family-based green card process.

Find an immigration attorney near you.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Immigration rules and fees change; check uscis.gov for current requirements.