Your complete guide to the naturalization process. Learn eligibility requirements, application steps, timeline, costs, and how to prepare for your citizenship test and interview.
To apply for US citizenship through naturalization, you must meet these basic requirements:
Must have had a green card for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a US citizen). Continuous residence required.
Must have been physically present in the US for at least 30 months out of 5 years (or 18 months out of 3 years).
Must be at least 18 years old at the time of filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
Demonstrate ability to read, write, and speak basic English. Pass a US civics test (exemptions available for certain ages).
Must demonstrate good moral character for at least 5 years (or 3 years). USCIS will review criminal and immigration history.
Must be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States and support the US Constitution.
Follow these 7 steps to become a US citizen
Review eligibility requirements carefully. Check your green card date, calculate physical presence, and review your criminal and immigration history. Consider consulting an immigration attorney.
Fill out Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. Provide accurate information about your background, residence, employment, travel history, and more. Gather supporting documents.
Submit your N-400 application with the filing fee ($640 application fee + $85 biometrics fee = $725 total as of 2026). Fee waivers and reductions available for qualifying applicants.
Attend your biometrics appointment at a USCIS Application Support Center. They will take your fingerprints, photo, and signature for background checks.
Attend your naturalization interview. A USCIS officer will review your application, test your English skills, and administer the civics test. Bring required documents.
USCIS will grant, continue, or deny your application. If granted, you'll receive a notice for your naturalization ceremony. If continued or denied, you'll receive instructions.
Attend your naturalization ceremony and take the Oath of Allegiance. You'll receive your Certificate of Naturalization and officially become a US citizen!
Application Processing
8-14 months average (varies by USCIS field office)
Biometrics Appointment
1-2 months after filing
Interview Notice
6-12 months after filing
Naturalization Ceremony
Same day or within 1-6 months after interview
Fee Waiver Available
If your household income is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, you may qualify for a fee waiver.
Additional Costs
Attorney fees (optional but recommended): $1,500-$3,000 • Document translation: $50-$200 • Passport application: $130
Prepare for your English and civics tests
Speaking
Determined during your interview as the officer asks you questions about your N-400 application.
Reading
Read 1 out of 3 sentences correctly. Vocabulary focuses on civics and history topics.
Writing
Write 1 out of 3 sentences correctly as dictated by the officer. Simple sentences related to US history and civics.
100 Official Questions
Study all 100 civics questions provided by USCIS. Topics include American government, history, and symbols.
10 Questions Asked
During your interview, the officer will ask up to 10 questions from the list of 100.
6 Correct to Pass
You must answer at least 6 out of 10 questions correctly to pass the civics test.
Age 50+
Green card holder for 20+ years: English test exemption (civics in native language)
Age 55+
Green card holder for 15+ years: English test exemption (civics in native language)
Age 65+
Green card holder for 20+ years: English exemption + simplified civics (20 questions)
Medical Disability
Form N-648 with doctor certification: exemption from English and/or civics test
Yes, you can apply up to 90 days before meeting the 5-year requirement (or 3 years if married to a US citizen). This is called the '90-day early filing rule.' However, you must still meet all other eligibility requirements.
If you fail the English or civics test, you'll be given another opportunity to take the test within 60-90 days. You only need to retake the portion you failed. If you fail twice, your N-400 application will be denied, but you can reapply.
This depends on your home country's laws. Some countries allow dual citizenship, while others require you to renounce your original citizenship. Check with your country's embassy or consulate before applying.
Yes, you can travel internationally while your citizenship application is pending. However, extended absences may raise questions about continuous residence. Always attend your biometrics and interview appointments.
Bring your green card, state ID or driver's license, passport, travel records, tax returns (last 5 years), and any documents related to arrests, marriages, divorces, or children. Your interview notice will specify required documents.
It depends on the nature and severity of the crime. Certain crimes (murder, aggravated felony) create permanent bars. Other crimes may require waiting periods. Consult an immigration attorney to review your specific situation before applying.
Naturalization ceremonies typically last 1-2 hours. You'll take the Oath of Allegiance, receive your Certificate of Naturalization, and may have the opportunity to register to vote. Some locations offer same-day ceremonies after interview approval.
You can apply for a US passport immediately after your naturalization ceremony. Bring your Certificate of Naturalization to a passport acceptance facility or post office. Processing takes 6-9 weeks for routine service.
Our experienced citizenship lawyers serve clients throughout New York
Don't navigate the citizenship process alone. Our experienced immigration attorneys will guide you through every step, from eligibility review to naturalization ceremony.