The United States Naturalization Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Becoming a United States citizen through naturalization is not an easy process and reaching it is considered a big milestone.
With the right preparation, you can cross the finish, eventually. It takes about three to five years for an immigrant to become a naturalized citizen and that is the short end of it all.
Below is a step-by-step guide to help break it down.
Check your Eligibility
This means before you even pick up an application or start one online, you need to make sure you qualify. Most applicants must be at least 18 years old and have been a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for at least five years (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen). You must also be able to prove that you have had a continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S. You have to demonstrate that you are of good moral character.
The Form N-400
According to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), step two is to complete Form N-400. The Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, is your official ticket into the naturalization process. You can file online or on paper. As of 2025, the filing fee is listed on the USCIS fee schedule, and fee waivers may be available in certain situations. It is a good idea to double-check your application before sending it in because missing signatures or documents can delay things for months.
The Biometrics Appointment
After USCIS receives your N-400 form, you will receive a notice for biometrics. This is where they take your fingerprints, photo, and obtain your signature. The government uses this information to run background checks. It is pretty straightforward, but don’t skip it since no biometrics means no progress in your journey to becoming a United States citizen.
The Interview
Next comes the naturalization interview which is usually scheduled at your local USCIS office. A USCIS officer will review your application and ask questions about your background. This is also where you will take the English and civics tests.
The English test includes reading, writing, and speaking. The civics test includes asking you up to 10 questions from a list of 100 possible questions about U.S. history and government. You must get six correct to pass. USCIS provides free study guides and flashcards. If you don’t pass the first time, you’ll usually get another shot within 90 days.
Receive a Decision
After your interview, USCIS will give you a written decision. There are three possible outcomes:
- Granted – Congratulations, you passed!
- Continued – USCIS needs more information, or you will need to retake part of the test.
- Denied – You didn’t meet eligibility or failed to provide required evidence.
Take the Oath of Allegiance
If approved, the last step is attending a naturalization ceremony. You will take the Oath of Allegiance, which makes your U.S. citizenship official. You will also receive your Certificate of Naturalization and should guard this with your life, because it’s proof of citizenship.
Why It’s Worth It
The process can take months, or in some cases, years, but the benefits are worth the wait. Citizenship means you will have voting rights, the ability to run for public office (with some exceptions), access to federal jobs, and the security of knowing you can’t be deported. Plus, you will have the ability to sponsor family members for green cards.
Naturalization is a journey that takes patience, preparation, and persistence. Each step, including eligibility, paperwork, biometrics, interview, and oath, is part of the process with the goal being the moment when you raise your hand and pledge allegiance.
