Information on American Citizenship

U.S. citizenship is granted after a period of permanent residency.

American citizenship grants certain rights and privileges such as the ability to obtain a US passport and to vote in U.S. elections. Citizenship is available to immigrants through the naturalization process, a process consisting of several steps including an application, test of U.S. knowledge and an oath ceremony.

Eligibility

For those who are not born into American citizenship, a period of permanent residency is required in order to become eligible for naturalization. For most visas, this period is five years from the beginning date on their green card. Spouses of U.S. citizens are the exceptions--they become eligible to apply for naturalization after just three years of permanent residency.

Application

The application for naturalization is form N-400. This is submitted to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The N-400 asks questions about your basis for immigration to the U.S. and the time you have spent in the country. This form is submitted to USCIS along with supporting documentation. Once the form is processed you will be assigned a biometrics appointment, where your fingerprints and photograph will be taken, and an interview date.

Interview

The naturalization interview is conducted at a USCIS facility local to you. An interview for naturalization has several parts. You will be asked questions about your N-400 application form and any supporting documents. Your ability to speak and write in English will be assessed and you will be given a short civics examination. You will need to answer at least 6 of 10 questions correctly to pass. If the interviewer is satisfied with your answers, you will be invited to swear your naturalization oath.

Oath

The naturalization oath is the final step to U.S. citizenship. It can be administered the same day as the interview in some locations, or during a group oath ceremony in others. The oath declares that you renounce your allegiance to any foreign state, sovereignty, potentate or prince and that you will support and defend America. Once the oath is completed you will receive a naturalization certificate, declaring you to be a U.S. citizen.

Benefits

There are many benefits of U.S. citizenship. You will be eligible to vote in local and national elections. Naturalized citizens may hold certain elected offices and will be eligible to travel with a U.S. passport. Finally, after naturalization you will be eligible to sponsor your family members.

References

• USCIS: Citizenship Through Naturalization
• USCIS: A Guide To Naturalization