Naturalization is the process by which someone becomes a United States citizen. It allows a lawful permanent resident to become a full-fledged citizen with the full rights and benefits that entails. In most cases, the process can take several months, even when you have everything in the proper order on your end. It’s helpful to work with an immigration lawyer who can ensure that you are following the procedure properly. There are several components to the naturalization process, including:

Eligibility – The first step to naturalization is making sure that you are eligible. You must be at least 18 years of age. You also must be a lawful permanent resident of the United States. Since most people who are interested in naturalization come from the family immigration process, this isn’t usually an issue. However, if you are in the United States on some kind of non-immigrant visa, you will have to petition for an adjustment of status first to receive your green card. You will also need to have lived in the United States for five years without interruption, or three years if you’re married to a U.S. citizen. You also need to have been present in the country for at least half of that time. Finally, you must be willing to take an oath of allegiance to the United States, pass a civics and English test, and demonstrate good moral character. Achieving naturalization means meeting strict guidelines and demonstrating your commitment to the U.S. by showing good moral character and understanding of U.S. civics—qualities that define the responsibilities of a U.S. citizen.

Form N-400 – Filling out an N-400 form is the first legal step to naturalization. Along with the form, you must present the required documentation to support your eligibility. It’s critical that the form and supporting documents are properly filled out or else it can lead to delays. The surest way to have your paperwork done properly is by working with an immigration lawyer like those at Passage Immigration Law. The N-400 form is your formal request to be considered for naturalization, and ensuring it is completed accurately is crucial. Missteps here can delay or derail your journey to becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen.

Interview and Tests – You will need to interview with an officer of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. The interview will cover your application and ask questions for more detail on your background and situation. While you are there, you will also need to take a test on your English language ability and understanding of U.S. civics. If your application is approved and you pass the tests, you will be given an invitation to a naturalization ceremony. This step assesses not just your knowledge but also your good moral character and your readiness to take on the rights and responsibilities of a U.S. citizen.

Biometrics – Before you can become naturalized, you will need a biometric appointment at a local Application Support Center. This will typically involve fingerprinting and photographing. This step ensures that all naturalized citizens maintain a record with USCIS, which is crucial for security and identification purposes.

Naturalization Ceremony – The capstone of the naturalization process is the naturalization ceremony. During this ceremony, you will take an oath of allegiance to the United States and its Constitution. After that, you will receive a certificate of naturalization. You must take care of this certificate and keep it safe, as it is a legal document. The ceremony marks the final transition from a permanent resident to a U.S. citizen, celebrating your full inclusion into the civic community with all the rights and responsibilities therein, including voting and the ability to hold a U.S. passport.