How to Get American Citizenship After Marriage

If you get married to an American citizen, does that give you U.S. citizenship automatically? No, it takes a little more than a marriage certificate to become a citizen of the United States. The process is pretty straight-forward but can be time-consuming.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. File the I-130 Petition for Alien Relative to get an immigration visa from United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The spouse that is a current citizen of the United States must file this and acts as a sponsor.
2. Get Form I-551 Alien Registration Receipt Card. Fill it out and submit it to USCIS via mail. Get delivery confirmation from the post office so you know it is delivered.
3. Now, live in the United States for three years. Keep a clean criminal record.
4. Apply for Form N-400 Application for Naturalization from USCIS.
5. Review the examination dates and register for the naturalization exam. Study your American history and the English language.
6. Pass the test and take the oath of allegiance! Congratulations, you are now a naturalized citizen of the United States of America.

Tips & Warnings

• Be patient. It can take up to four months to get approval for an immigration visa.
• Be prepared for fees. The current cost for Form N-400 is about $300.
• Maintain a clean criminal record.
• Practice reading, writing and speaking English.
• Take lessons in United States history.