The main routes to U.S. citizenship

You can become a U.S. citizen through naturalization (the most common path for immigrants), through birth, or through derivation from a parent who is a citizen. This guide covers naturalization, which is the process most adult immigrants follow. Naturalization requires you to hold a green card for a set period, pass an English and civics test, and take an oath of allegiance.

The timeline from green card to citizenship oath typically takes 8 to 12 months, though it varies by location and how quickly USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) processes your case. Some cases move faster; others take longer if additional documents are requested.

Key Takeaways

  • You must hold a green card for at least three or five years (depending on your circumstances) before you can file for naturalization.
  • The N-400 form is the official application, filed with USCIS along with supporting documents like your green card, state ID, and tax returns.
  • You will take a test covering English speaking, reading, and writing, plus 100 possible civics questions about U.S. government and history.
  • The final step is an oath ceremony where you swear allegiance to the United States and receive your Certificate of Naturalization.
  • Costs include the filing fee (currently $640) plus biometric services fee (currently $85), though fee reductions are available if your income is below 400% of the federal poverty line.

Green card holding period before you can file

You must hold a green card for a minimum period before you are may be able to access to file the N-400 naturalization application. For most people, this period is five years. However, if you are married to a U.S. citizen, the period is three years instead.

The clock starts from the date USCIS approved your green card, not the date you entered the country. If you are unsure when your green card was approved, check the date on the card itself or your approval notice. You cannot file before this time has passed, and USCIS will reject an early application.

During this waiting period, you must maintain your green card status by not leaving the country for more than six months at a time without a re-entry permit, and by not committing certain crimes that would make you deportable.

The N-400 application and required documents

The N-400 Application for Naturalization is the official form you file with USCIS. You can file it online through the USCIS online portal, by mail, or in person at a USCIS office. Filing online is usually faster and allows you to track your case status in real time.

You must submit your N-400 along with supporting documents. These typically include a copy of your green card (both sides), a state-issued photo ID, your birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), divorce decrees (if applicable), tax returns for the past five years, and proof of residence such as a utility bill or lease. USCIS will also take your fingerprints for a background check, which happens at a separate biometric services appointment they schedule for you.

The filing fee is currently $640, with an additional $85 biometric services fee. If your household income is at or below 400% of the federal poverty line, you can request a fee reduction or waiver by submitting Form I-942 with your application.

The English and civics test

During your naturalization interview, a USCIS officer will test your English ability and your knowledge of U.S. civics. The English portion has three parts: speaking (which happens naturally during your interview), reading, and writing. For reading, the officer will show you one out of three sentences and you must read it correctly. For writing, the officer will read one out of three sentences aloud and you must write it down correctly.

The civics test covers 100 possible questions about U.S. government, history, rights, and responsibilities. USCIS publishes all 100 questions and answers online before you test. You will be asked up to 10 questions during your interview, and you must answer at least six correctly to pass. Common topics include the structure of government, the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and major historical events.

You can study the official civics test questions on the USCIS website at no cost. Many libraries and community organizations also offer free civics and English classes to help you prepare. If you are over 65 and have held a green card for at least 20 years, you may be exempt from the English test and can take a simplified civics test in your native language.

The naturalization interview and decision

USCIS will schedule you for an interview at a local USCIS office. At the interview, a USCIS officer will review your N-400 application, ask questions about your background and residence, administer the English and civics test, and take your fingerprints if they were not already taken. The interview typically lasts 20 to 30 minutes. Bring your green card, state ID, and any documents USCIS requested in their interview notice.

After the interview, the officer will usually tell you on the same day whether you passed or failed the test. If you fail the English or civics test, you will be given a second chance to retake it within 60 to 90 days. If you pass, the officer will tell you when and where your oath ceremony will be held.

In rare cases, USCIS may request additional documents or information after your interview. They will send you a notice explaining what they need and when to submit it. Respond within the deadline they give you, or your case may be denied.

The oath ceremony and Certificate of Naturalization

Once you pass your interview and test, USCIS schedules you for an oath ceremony. At the ceremony, you will take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States in front of a USCIS officer or judge. The oath is a public commitment to support and defend the Constitution and to renounce allegiance to any other country.

After you take the oath, you will receive your Certificate of Naturalization. This is your official proof of U.S. citizenship. You should keep it in a safe place. You can use it to apply for a U.S. passport, to sponsor family members for immigration, or to prove citizenship if needed.

Some ceremonies are held in groups with dozens of people; others are smaller. The USCIS office will tell you the date, time, and location in your oath notice. Bring your green card and any documents USCIS requested. After the ceremony, your green card is no longer valid.

What happens if your application is denied

USCIS can deny a naturalization application if you do not meet the requirements, if you fail the English or civics test twice, if you have committed certain crimes, or if you cannot demonstrate good moral character. If your application is denied, USCIS will send you a written notice explaining the reason.

You have the right to request a hearing before an immigration judge to contest the denial. You must request this hearing within 30 days of receiving the denial notice. An immigration attorney can help you prepare for the hearing, though you are not required to have one.

If your application is denied because you failed the test, you may be able to file a new N-400 application after waiting the required time period, depending on the reason for denial. Speak with an immigration attorney or contact your local legal aid organization to understand your options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file for naturalization if I have a criminal record?

It depends on the type of crime. Certain crimes, such as murder, drug trafficking, or crimes of moral turpitude, make you ineligible for naturalization and may make you deportable. Other crimes do not automatically disqualify you. Consult an immigration attorney before filing if you have any criminal history.

What if I fail the English or civics test?

You will be given a second opportunity to retake the test within 60 to 90 days. If you fail a second time, your application will be denied, but you can file a new N-400 after waiting the required time period. Free civics and English classes are available through many libraries and community organizations.

Do I need an attorney to file for naturalization?

You are not required to have an attorney, but one can help you understand the process, prepare for the interview, and handle complications. Many legal aid organizations offer free or low-cost immigration services to people with limited income. You can search for local legal aid at lawhelp.org.

What if I move before my interview?

Tell USCIS about your move as soon as possible. You can update your address online through the USCIS portal, by calling USCIS, or by submitting a written notice. USCIS may reschedule your interview at the office closest to your new address.

Can I travel outside the U.S. while my naturalization case is pending?

Travel is risky while your case is pending. Leaving the country can be interpreted as abandoning your green card status, which could result in your application being denied or your green card being revoked. If you must travel, consult an immigration attorney first about whether it is safe to do so.