This archive report was first published on 30 August 2019.
Every year, the United States welcomes hundreds of thousands of new citizens through the naturalization process. In fiscal year 2018, a record 757,000 green card holders were naturalized, bringing the total number of naturalized citizens over the last decade to approximately 7.2 million, according to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Before embarking on the path to US citizenship, individuals must first become permanent residents, commonly referred to as green card holders. This typically requires a minimum of 5 years of residency, although certain circumstances, such as marriage to a US citizen, can reduce this period to 3 years.
To be eligible for naturalization, applicants must meet specific requirements, including:
- Being a lawful US permanent resident for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a US citizen and still in a marital union) at the time of filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
- Being at least 18 years old.
- Having lived continuously in the US as a green card holder for at least 3 years.
- Being physically present in the US for at least 30 months out of the last 5 years.
- Having lived for at least 3 months in the state or USCIS jurisdiction where they apply for naturalization.
- Being able to read, write, and speak English.
- Having a basic understanding of US history and government (civics) and passing the citizenship test.
- Being a person of good moral character.
- Being willing to take the Oath of Allegiance, which includes promising to uphold the US Constitution and obey the laws of the United States.
