Many people from the four corners of the world long to live the American dream. The United States has an abundance of opportunities that can’t be found anywhere else. For those who have left their home countries and established residency, their next big step is to take the plunge into becoming citizens of the United States. However, this next step can be both confusing and challenging. It begins with filing Form N-400, the official “Application for Naturalization.”
What is Naturalization?
Naturalization is the legal process by which a non-U.S. citizen voluntarily becomes a U.S. citizen. It involves meeting specific eligibility requirements, such as holding a green card (lawful permanent resident status) for a certain period, demonstrating good moral character, the passing of an English language and U.S. civics test, and showing loyalty to the U.S. Constitution. Once granted, naturalized citizens gain the same rights and responsibilities as those born in the United States, including the right to vote and obtain a U.S. passport.
Many confuse naturalization and citizenship, and while both share the same benefits, what makes them different is how an individual acquires citizenship.
- Citizenship by birth: Anyone born in the United States or one of its territories is immediately a citizen of the country. This is known as birthright citizenship and doesn’t require filing any forms or applications.
- Naturalization: Naturalization is the process a green card holder undergoes to apply for U.S. citizenship. Being a lawful permanent resident doesn’t automatically allow for naturalization; individuals must apply for it and be accepted.
United States citizenship refers to a person’s legal status in the country, whether they were born a citizen or became one through the naturalization process.
The Benefits of Becoming a Naturalized United States Citizen
While green card holders can experience many of the benefits that living in the United States can offer, becoming a citizen offers far more benefits. Here’s a look at what naturalization can bring.
- Voting privileges: U.S. citizens can vote in local, state, and federal elections, which allows them to get involved in politics and play a role in who is elected.
- Better access to government jobs: Many government positions require applicants to be U.S. citizens. Naturalization can open up the door to many different government jobs.
- U.S. passport: Citizens can apply for a United States passport, which makes international travel much easier, as some countries do not require entry visas for U.S. citizens.
- Family Sponsorship: Naturalized citizens can petition for close family members to enter the country and obtain a green card more easily.
- Protection from deportation: As a naturalized citizen, you can’t be deported, which provides more stability than a green card can.
- Enhanced federal benefits: Citizenship allows for better access to many government benefits like student loans and grants.
- Ability to run for public office: Citizens of the United States can participate in governing the country by running for office.
- Equal rights: By becoming a national citizen, individuals can enjoy the same rights as natural-born citizens, including the right to free speech, assembly, and religion.
Who Can Apply for Naturalization?
To apply for naturalization in the United States, an individual must meet specific eligibility requirements. Here are the key criteria:
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be at least 18 years old when they file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
- Permanent Resident Status: Applicants must be a lawful permanent resident for a minimum of five years. This means they must have been granted permanent residency and have a valid green card.
- Continuous Residence: Applicants will have to prove they have continuously resided in the U.S. for the required period (five or three years) before applying. This generally means that they have not spent prolonged periods outside the U.S. during that time.
- Physical Presence: Applicants must have been physically within the country for at least half of the required residency period. For example, this means being physically within the U.S. for at least 30 months out of the last five years or 18 months out of the last three years if applying based on being married to a U.S. citizen.
- Good Moral Character: Applicants must be of good moral character. What this means is that they have not committed crimes that would bar them from naturalization, such as felonies or other serious offenses.
- English Language Proficiency: Applicants must be able to read, write, and speak basic English. There are some exemptions based on age and long-term residency, but most applicants will need to pass an English language test as part of the naturalization process.
- Civics Knowledge: Applicants must demonstrate knowledge of U.S. history and government, passing a civics test administered during the naturalization interview.
- Oath of Allegiance: Applicants must take the Oath of Allegiance, which includes a promise to support and defend the U.S. Constitution and obey the laws of the United States.
How to Fill Out Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization)
You’ll want to ensure that you fill out everything correctly and include any required supplemental documents. Failure to do so may result in delays in service or your application being denied. Here’s what to expect when filling out the form.
Gather Your Documents
- Permanent Resident Card: Make sure you have your green card handy.
- Identification: Have a valid ID (like a driver’s license or passport) ready.
- Travel History: Be prepared to list trips you’ve taken outside the U.S. in the last five years.
- Marriage Certificate: If you’re applying based on marriage, include your marriage certificate.
Download Form N-400
- Go to the USCIS website and download the latest version of Form N-400. Make sure it’s the current one.
Personal Information
- Name: Write your full name as it appears on your green card.
- Address: Provide your current address. If you’ve moved recently, make sure to use your most recent address.
- Contact Information: Include your landline or cellphone number and email address.
Biographical Information
- Date of Birth: Supply your birth date.
- Country of Birth: Write the country where you were born.
- Social Security Number: If you have one, enter it here.
Residency Information
- Date of Becoming a Permanent Resident: Fill in when you received your green card.
- Residency History: List all addresses you’ve lived at in the last five years.
Good Moral Character
- Answer questions about your criminal history honestly. If you have any criminal issues, it might be wise to talk to a lawyer before filling this out.
Employment and Education
- Job Information: Include your current and previous jobs, along with employer names and addresses.
- Education: You might need to provide information about your schooling.
English and Civics Testing
- Indicate whether you are willing to take the English and civics tests. Most applicants will need to do this.
Oath of Allegiance
- Affirm that you are willing to take the Oath of Allegiance.
Signature and Date
- Sign and date your form. If someone helped you fill it out, they’ll need to sign in the designated area, too.
Review Your Application
- Double-check everything. Make sure all your answers are complete and accurate.
- Look for any typos or missed questions.
Prepare to Submit
- Payment: Check the fee and prepare your payment (check or money order) if required.
- Mail It: Send your completed Form N-400 to the address provided in the form instructions.
Keep a Copy
- Before you send it, make a copy of your entire application for your records.
Tips for Filing Form N-400
To ensure that USCIS accepts your application, here are a few things to keep in mind. Although you may be excited to take the leap from resident to citizen, it’s critical that you take your time and fill out everything correctly. If you have any questions, it’s beneficial to ask for help from an online immigration service.
Read the Instructions Carefully
Before you start filling out the form, take a moment to read the instructions that come with it. They explain everything you need to know about filling out the form correctly.
Be Honest and Accurate
Make sure to answer all questions truthfully. If you have a criminal record or any issues in your past, it’s better to be open about it. USCIS values honesty.
Double-Check Your Information
After you fill out the form, review it carefully. Check for any mistakes or missing information. A small error can delay your application.
Include All Required Documents
Gather and include all necessary documents, like a copy of your green card and any other supporting materials. Make sure everything is organized and easy to find.
The Naturalization Process Explained
With so many benefits, green card holders should take the opportunity to become naturalized. From the ability to vote in federal elections to the lack of a chance of being deported, the steps to becoming a United States citizen far outweigh any fears or worries about the process. While straightforward, the process can still be overwhelming. Should you have any questions or concerns, the experts at US-Immigration are happy to assist you.
