Becoming a U.S. Citizen

The process by which people from foreign countries become U.S. citizens is called naturalization. There are three steps in this process:

1. File an application.
2. Take a naturalization examination.
3. Appear for a court hearing.

To become a citizen, or to be naturalized, a person must meet certain requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have lived in the U.S. as a legal resident for at least 5 years.
• Be of good moral character and loyal to the U.S.
• Be able to read, write, speak and understand basic English.
• Have basic knowledge and understanding of the history, government structure and the Constitution of the U.S.
• Be willing to take an oath of allegiance to the U.S.

A service of the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office.

Last updated: November 20, 2003
Page Name: http://bensguide.gpo.gov/9-12/citizenship/citizenship.html