Becoming a U.S. citizen is a dream for many people. Most will first apply for a green card and become a naturalized citizen. However, you can also become a citizen through your parents, military service, or marriage.
There are many life-changing benefits you can access after you naturalize. For example, you get better job opportunities, scholarships, and independence from immigration fees and can forget about the risk of facing deportation. So. how to become an American Citizen?
If you already have a green card, the process to become a U.S. Citizen is clear, and with the guide below, we will help you to have an easier time completing the process.
How to Become an American Citizen: Step-by-step
The first step is to decide whether you want to have better opportunities. Then, you should start looking for information on the process. We’ve simplified the information, so take a look at it:
1. Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements
Before applying for U.S. Citizenship, please make sure you meet the requirements.
- You have to be at least 18 years old.
- You must have been a Green Card holder for at least five years.
- You must have lived at least three months in the state where you are applying.
- You must demonstrate residency in the United States for at least five years.
- You need to show that you have been in the United States for at least 30 months out of the previous five years.
- Be capable of writing, reading, and speaking basic English.
- Have basic knowledge of the U.S. government and history.
- Be a person with good morals.
- Demonstrate an ideological connection to the ideals and principles of the U.S. Constitution.
2. Prepare the Application for Naturalization
Read the instructions carefully to complete Form N-400. Make sure you collect all the documents that show your eligibility to become an American Citizen and use the document checklist to be ready with all the required documents.
Note: If you live outside the United States, get two passport-style 2×2 photos.
You can get professional help from an immigration attorney in this step, so you are sure to put the correct information in Form N-400. Many online service tools can make this process a lot easier.
You can find helpful information here: All you need to know about form N-400.
Once you’ve submitted Form N-400, USCIS will send you the receipt and notify you. You can always check the case of your status online if you like.
3. Attend the Biometrics Appointment
If you need to take biometrics, USCIS will let you know. They will send you the appointment information, including the location, time, and date.
4. Have the N-400 interview
USCIS will program an interview with you to complete the process for American Citizenship. You must go to the USCIS office at the time and date indicated in your appointment notice. Also, make sure to take the appointment notice with you.
If this step makes you nervous, we can guide you in preparing for your citizenship interview.
5. Obtain a Response from USCIS
USCIS will send you the results with one of the following responses:
-
Granted
USCIS may approve your Form N-400 if the evidence in your record indicates that you are eligible for naturalization.
-
Continued
USCIS may continue your application in case you need to provide additional documents that act as evidence.
-
Denied
USCIS will deny your Form N-400 if the evidence in your record indicates that you are not eligible for naturalization.
6. Swear an Oath
If USCIS response was granted, you’ll have to swear the Oath of Allegiance. You’ll receive Form 455, which will tell you when and where to take the oath.
You will answer the questions on the back of the form and review them with an officer when you attend your naturalization ceremony, so you can receive your certificate of naturalization.
You Are an American Citizen, Understand What It Means:
Congratulations! Now that you are a U.S. Citizen, you should know that citizenship is what connects all Americans. You should check the list of some of the most important responsibilities and rights that you should honor, respect, and exercise as an American.
