U.S. Citizenship through Naturalization
Becoming a citizen through naturalization is a process in which a non-U.S. citizen voluntarily becomes an American citizen. U.S. citizens:
Owe their allegiance to the United States
Are entitled to its protection
Should exercise their rights and responsibilities as citizens
Review this visual overview about the general naturalization process.
To become a U.S. citizen, you must:
Have had a Permanent Resident (Green) Card for at least five years, or for at least three years if you’re filing as the spouse of a U.S. citizen.
You must renew your Permanent Resident Card before applying for citizenship if:
Your card will expire within six months of applying, or
Your card has already expired
You can apply for naturalization before you receive your new Green Card. But, you’ll need to submit a photocopy of the receipt for your Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, when you receive it.
Meet certain eligibility requirements. To see if you’re eligible, click on the link that is most similar to your situation. Some requirements may include being:
At least 18 years old when you apply
Able to read, write, and speak basic English
Of good moral character
Go through the 10-step naturalization process which includes:
Determining your eligibility to become an American citizen
Completing form N-400, the application for naturalization, and creating a free account to submit your form online.
Taking the U.S. Naturalization Test and having a personal interview. Note: The civics portion of the test has changed. If you applied for naturalization after December 1, 2020, you must take the 2020 version of the civics test.
If you filed for naturalization before December 1, 2020, you must take the 2008 version of the civics test.
Helpful Resources For Citizenship
Take the U.S. Naturalization Test
One of the requirements in the naturalization process is taking the U.S. Naturalization Test. The Naturalization Test has two components: a civics test and an English test.
Study Resources for the 2008 and 2020 Versions of the Civics Test
Visit the 2020 Version of the Civics Test to find study resources for the new test.
The 2020 test has 128 questions about American history and government.
You’ll find all 128 questions and answers as well as flash cards on this page.
Find study resources for the 2008 version of the Civics test.
100 Civics Questions and Answers for the 2008 Test (with MP3 audio)
Civics Practice Test - Study tool to help you test your knowledge of U.S. history and government.
