6 Steps To Obtaining U.S. Citizenship
There are many advantages to obtaining U.S. citizenship, including being given the right to vote as well as immunity from deportation. But getting there requires a little investment of time and some knowledge of the eligibility requirements. It's not all that complicated when it comes down to it; you just need to know what to do. Here are six steps to becoming an American citizen.
1. Understand Eligibility Requirements
In order to obtain citizenship, you must meet the eligibility requirements, which is rather multi-faceted. The following criteria must by met before moving on to the next step:
- Obtain a green card. A green card allows you to live and work in the U.S. permanently.
- Keep your green card in good standing for five years. Five is the standard but there are exceptions to that rule. If you've been married to a U.S. citizen for at least three years or if you're a battered spouse or ex-spouse, you can apply early. Also, refugees, U.S. military, and widows/widowers of U.S. military can apply for citizenship before the five years are up. There are other situations as well, and an immigration attorney can help you determine if you're eligible to apply.
- Maintain physical presence. You must have lived in the U.S. for at least two and a half of the five years.
- Be continuously present. During your residency, you must not have left the U.S. for more than six months at a time.
- Live in the same state. Before applying for citizenship, you must have lived in the same state for at least three months.
- Be of legal age. Unless you are gaining citizenship through your parents, you must be at least 18 years old.
- Maintain good moral character. This means paying your taxes and not committing any crimes during your residency.
- Know the language. Make sure you can read, write, and speak English.
- Know the history. During the application process, you will be given an oral civics test on the history of the U.S. Possible test questions are provided by the USCIS.
- Pledge your loyalty. You must be willing to accept the Oath of Allegiance, which signifies your loyalty to the United States.
2. Overcome Barriers to Eligibility
There are a few things that may impact your eligibility to become a citizen beyond not meeting the above requirements. Fortunately, some of them simply require more time or an explanation of certain decisions or events. The following situations might prevent you from becoming a US citizen:
- If it's discovered along the way that your green card shouldn't have been issued, this could present a problem. For instance, if you were married when you immigrated and neglected to put that on your green card, this could warrant further questioning.
- If you become a threat in any way by either committing crimes or developing a mental illness that makes you a danger to the public, you could lose your green card altogether.
If you discover somewhere along the way that you don't meet eligibility requirements and you're not sure where to turn, consult with an immigration attorney who can offer advice on what you need to do.
3. Fill Out a Form N-400
This form is filled out with the USCIS and it gets the citizenship-ball rolling. Make sure you know what the fees are and have sufficient funds to pay them. You'll also need to attach a copy of your green card.
4. Get a Background Check
Once your application has been received, you'll need to be fingerprinted and have a background check done. An address and date will be provided to you.
5. Attend Your Citizenship Interview
Once again, you'll be given a date and a time to attend your citizenship interview. The officer will ask you questions regarding your application, and you'll also be required to perform your oral civics test.
6. Attend an Oath Ceremony
If you've made it this far, you're likely very excited. But it is essential that you attend the Oath Ceremony to make everything official. Once you take the Oath publicly, you'll receive your certificate of naturalization.
For more information, contact a local immigration lawyer.