U.S. Citizenship

Your Path to U.S. Citizenship

Becoming a U.S. citizen is one of the most important decisions you'll make. We'll help you understand the naturalization process and prepare for success.

Filing fee: $640 + $85
Processing: 8-14 months
Check Your Eligibility

Benefits of U.S. Citizenship

Becoming a citizen opens doors to rights and opportunities not available to permanent residents

Vote in federal elections
Run for public office
Travel with a U.S. passport
Bring family members to the U.S.
Protection from deportation
Federal job eligibility
Federal benefits access
Keep citizenship when living abroad

Eligibility Requirements

You must meet all of these requirements to be eligible for naturalization

Age

Must be at least 18 years old at the time of filing

Green Card

Been a lawful permanent resident for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen)

Continuous Residence

Lived continuously in the U.S. for at least 5 years as a green card holder

Physical Presence

Been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of the 5 years

State Residency

Lived in the state where you're applying for at least 3 months

Good Moral Character

Demonstrated good moral character during the statutory period

English & Civics

Able to read, write, and speak basic English; knowledge of U.S. history and government

Attachment

Attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution

Special Categories

Spouses of U.S. citizens may be eligible after 3 years. Military members may have expedited pathways. Certain applicants may be exempt from English or civics requirements.

The Naturalization Process

From application to oath ceremony, here's what to expect

1

Determine Eligibility

Verify you meet all the requirements for naturalization based on your specific situation.

2

Prepare Application

Complete Form N-400, gather supporting documents, and prepare your application package.

3

Submit & Pay Fee

File Form N-400 with USCIS along with the $640 application fee and $85 biometrics fee.

4

Biometrics Appointment

Attend your biometrics appointment to have your fingerprints and photo taken.

5

Interview & Tests

Attend your naturalization interview, English test, and civics test.

6

Oath Ceremony

Take the Oath of Allegiance at your naturalization ceremony and receive your certificate.

Civics Test

Prepare for the Civics Test

During your interview, you'll be asked up to 10 questions from a list of 100. You must answer at least 6 correctly to pass.

American Government

57 questions

Topics: Branches of government, Constitution, Bill of Rights

American History

31 questions

Topics: Colonial period, 1800s, Recent history

Integrated Civics

12 questions

Topics: Geography, Symbols, Holidays

Sample Questions

What is the supreme law of the land?

Answer: The Constitution

What are the two parts of the U.S. Congress?

Answer: The Senate and House of Representatives

What did the Declaration of Independence do?

Answer: Announced our independence from Great Britain

Start Citizenship Prep

Ready to Become a U.S. Citizen?

Let SureCitizen guide you through the naturalization process. We'll help you prepare your application and get ready for your interview.