A permanent
legal resident can apply for
U.S. citizenship after
living in the United States
for a certain period of time
and meeting the
qualifications. If you have
married a U.S. citizen, you
can apply for naturalization
after 3 years of marriage.
People who have obtained a
green card can apply after 5
years. If you've been
convicted of certain crimes,
the process may take longer.
Children born
in the U.S., born abroad to
a U.S. citizen or legally
adopted by a U.S. citizen
are considered naturalized
citizens. Children of
immigrants can be granted
citizenship when the parents
become naturalized.
You must fulfill one
of the following to apply
for naturalization:
-
You have U.S. permanent
residency (a.k.a.
“Green Card”) and
have lived in the United
States for 5 years.
-
You have asylum and have
lived in the United
States for four years.
-
You are the spouse of a
U.S. citizen and have
lived in the country at
least 3 years.
-
You are permanent
resident, have served in
the United States
military, and have been
in the country for 3
years.
All naturalization
applicants must demonstrate
good moral character and a
belief in the U.S.
Constitution and the U.S.
government. However, some of
the other requirements may
be modified or waived for
certain applicants, such as
spouses of United States
citizens, or members of the
military and certain elderly
applicants.
The basic requirements for
naturalization include:
-
A continuous residence and physical presence in the United States
-
Residence in a particular state prior to filing
-
Ability to read, write, and speak English
-
A knowledge and understanding of United States history and government
-
Good moral character
-
Attachment to the principles set forth in the United States Constitution
-
Favorable disposition toward the United States
