This article was last updated and fact checked on January 28, 2023 by Mani Karthik.
Becoming a US citizen is a long and complicated process, but it’s worth it for those who want to make a difference in the country. The first step is to fill out an application, which can be done online or in person. There are a few different ways to become a citizen, but the most common is through naturalization. The US citizenship application process can take several years, but it’s worth it to have a say in the country’s future.
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Who can apply for US citizenship?
The United States is one of the best countries in the world to apply for citizenship. There are a number of ways to become a US citizen, but the fastest and easiest way is to go through the naturalization process. This article will explain how to get started and what it takes to become a US citizen. (Source)
US citizenship can be applied for by anyone who meets the requirements for naturalization.
In order to be eligible for naturalization, an applicant must:
- Be at least 18 years old at the time of filing
- Be a permanent resident of the United States for at least 5 years
- Be physically present in the United States for at least 30 months out of the 5 years preceding the date of application
- Be able to read, write, and speak basic English
- Have a knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government
- Be a person of good moral character
- Take an oath of allegiance to the United States
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Steps to Apply for US Citizenship
Here are the steps to apply for US citizenship.
1. File an application with the USCIS
2. Attend an interview with a USCIS officer
3. Pass a civics and English test
4. Take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States
Tips for submitting your citizenship evidence
There are a few things to keep in mind when submitting your citizenship evidence:
Make sure you have the right document
The following documents are accepted as proof of U.S. citizenship:
- U.S. birth certificate
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
- Certificate of Naturalization
- Certificate of Citizenship
Check that your document is up to date.
Your document can’t be expired or expired for more than 90 days.
Make sure your document isn’t damaged
Your document can’t be ripped, torn, or altered in any way.
Include your full name and date of birth on your document
Make sure your document has your full legal name and date of birth.
Include your Social Security number on your document
If you have a Social Security number, make sure it’s included in your document.
How to Get a Certificate of Citizenship or Certificate of Naturalization
If you were born outside of the United States, you may be eligible for a Certificate of Citizenship or Certificate of Naturalization. These documents serve as proof of your U.S. citizenship and can be used to obtain a passport, vote, or apply for certain government benefits.
To get a Certificate of Citizenship or Certificate of Naturalization, you must first apply for citizenship through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once your application is approved, you will be scheduled for an interview and fingerprinting.
After you complete the interview and fingerprinting, you will take an oath of allegiance to the United States. Once you have taken the oath, you will be issued either a Certificate of Citizenship or Certificate of Naturalization.
Tips for Applying for US Citizenship
- Start the process early- it can take several months or even years to become a U.S. citizen.
- Make sure you are eligible for citizenship. You must have lived in the United States for at least five years (or three years if you are married to a U.S. citizen) and have been a permanent resident during that time.
- Collect the required documents. You will need to provide proof of your identity, proof of your residency in the United States, and proof of your good moral character.
- Complete the application forms. Be sure to answer all questions truthfully and completely.
- Pay the application fee.
- Schedule an interview with a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services officer. This is where you will be asked questions about your application and your background.
- Take the Oath of Allegiance. This final step officially makes you a U.S. citizen.
How to Apply for US Citizenship: Steps
1. File an application with the USCIS
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the government agency responsible for processing applications for US citizenship. The process of applying for US citizenship can be long and complex, so it is important to make sure that you have all the required documentation before you begin.
The first step in the process is to fill out and submit the USCIS Form N-400, which is the application for naturalization. Along with the completed form, you will need to submit proof of your identity, proof of your US residency, and proof of your good moral character. You will also need to submit a photograph and pay the filing fee.
Once your application is received, the USCIS will schedule an interview with you. During the interview, you will be asked questions about your application and your background. You will also be required to take a civics test and an English proficiency test.
After the interview, the USCIS will review your application and decide whether or not to approve it. If your application is approved, you will be scheduled for a ceremony where you will take the Oath of Allegiance and become a US citizen.
2. Attend an interview with a USCIS officer
To attend the US citizenship interview with a USCIS officer, you will need to bring your permanent resident card, a photo ID, and any other required documents. You will also need to have an interpreter present if you do not speak English. The interview will cover your background, your knowledge of English and civics, and your reasons for wanting to become a US citizen.
3. Pass a civics and English test
Assuming you are already a Permanent Resident of the United States:
To become a naturalized U.S. citizen, you must pass a civics and English test unless you qualify for an exemption or waiver. The civics test covers important U.S. history and government topics. The English test measures your ability to read, write, and speak in English.
You will take the civics and English test during your interview with a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer. You will be asked up to 10 civics questions. You must answer six (6) out of 10 questions correctly to pass the civics test.
As part of the English test, you will be asked to read one sentence aloud. You will also be asked to write one sentence. The officer will ask you to write what you just read. For the reading and writing tests, you must answer correctly six (6) out of eight questions.
4. Take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States
The last step during the US citizenship application is the Oath of Allegiance. This is where you pledge your loyalty to the United States and its Constitution. You will also be required to renounce any allegiance to any other country.
How to fill Application N400
There are three ways to fill out an Application N400. The first way is to go to the official website of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The second way is to request the form from USCIS by calling their customer service number. The third way is to get the form from a local USCIS office.
The first step in filling out an Application N400 is to gather all of the required documentation. This includes a passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), and divorce decree (if applicable).
The next step is to complete the form online. Once the form is complete, it must be printed out and signed. The final step is to mail the completed form, along with the required documentation, to the address listed on the form.
Does the US allow dual citizenship?
The United States does not currently have a policy regarding dual citizenship, so it is technically allowed. However, there are some restrictions that come with being a dual citizen of the US. For example, dual citizens are not allowed to vote in US elections or hold certain government jobs. Additionally, dual citizens may be required to serve in the military of both countries.
Photograph specifications for US Citizenship Application
There are certain requirements for the photographs that will be submitted along with a US citizen application. The photographs must be 2 inches by 2 inches in size and must be taken within 6 months of the date of the application. They must be in color and have a white background.
The applicant’s head must be centered in the photograph and measure between 1 inch and 1 3/8 inches from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head.
The photograph must be taken directly facing the camera with a neutral expression and both eyes open.
Which action is considered a mandatory responsibility of US citizenship?
The mandatory responsibility of US citizenship is to participate in the democratic process.
