How to become an American Citizen?

Becoming a U.S. citizen is a dream for many people. Most will first apply for the green card and then 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, 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 very 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 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 you apply for the U.S. Citizenship, 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 5 years.
• You need to have lived at least 3 months in the state where you are applying.
• You need to demonstrate residency in the United States for at least 5 years.
• You need to be able to show that you have been present in the United States for at least 30 months out of the previous 5 years.
• Be capable to write, read, and speak basic English.
• Have basic knowledge of 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.

Find out if you're eligible for citizenship by completing this free quiz

2- Prepare the Application for Naturalization

Read the instructions carefully to complete the 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, make sure to get 2 passport-style photos taken.

Find all the documents your need for naturalization 

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. There are also many online service tools that can make this process a lot easier.

You can find useful information in: 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.

3- Attend the Biometrics Appointment

If you need to take biometrics, USCIS will let you know. They will send you the appointment information that includes the location, time and date.

4- Have the N-400 interview

USCIS will program an interview with you to complete the process for the 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 on how to prepare 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.

Ready to start the process?

Now that you understand how to become an American Citizen, you can start by checking if you meet the eligibility. We've created a free selfdiagnosis test that can help you find out, click below: