Immigration & Citizenship
How to apply for U.S. citizenship (naturalization)
Naturalization is the legal process by which a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) becomes a U.S. citizen. The process takes 8–24 months and requires meeting residency, language, and civics requirements.
Last reviewed: June 5, 2026
What you will need
- ✓Completed Form N-400
- ✓Copy of both sides of your Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- ✓Passport-style photo
- ✓Evidence of continuous residence (tax returns, employment records, lease agreements)
- ✓Proof of marriage and U.S. citizen spouse's citizenship (for 3-year path)
Steps
Confirm you meet eligibility requirements
You must meet all of the following.
- Be a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder)
- Have held your Green Card for at least 5 years — or 3 years if married to and living with a U.S. citizen
- Have lived continuously in the U.S. for the required period (no single trip abroad exceeding 6 months during the waiting period)
- Have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months of the 5-year period (18 months for the 3-year path)
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a person of good moral character
- Demonstrate basic English reading, writing, and speaking ability (with some exemptions for older applicants)
- Pass the U.S. civics test (100 possible questions; must answer 6 of 10 correctly)
Prepare and file Form N-400
Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) is the official citizenship application. Complete it carefully — errors or omissions can delay or complicate your case. Submit online at my.uscis.gov or by mail to the appropriate USCIS lockbox.
Attend your biometrics appointment
After filing, USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment at a local Application Support Center. You'll provide fingerprints, a photo, and a signature. This is used for background checks.
Study for and pass the civics interview and test
USCIS will schedule an interview at a local office. The officer will review your N-400, test your English ability through the interview itself, and ask you 10 of the 100 official civics questions — you must answer at least 6 correctly. USCIS publishes all 100 questions and answers at uscis.gov/citizenship.
Tip: The USCIS Civics Practice Test and study materials are free online. Most applicants study for 2–4 weeks.
Receive your decision
If approved at the interview, USCIS will schedule your oath ceremony. If more information is needed, you'll receive a request. If denied, you have 30 days to request a hearing.
Take the Oath of Allegiance
At the oath ceremony, you renounce allegiance to other countries and are sworn in as a U.S. citizen. You receive your Certificate of Naturalization. After the ceremony, you can apply for a U.S. passport immediately.
Tip: Bring your Green Card to the oath ceremony — you'll surrender it, as it is no longer valid once you become a citizen.