Introduction
To apply for citizenship in America, the applicant has to fulfill several conditions. This article will explain some points of US citizenship. Application time, procedure, eligibility visa approval, etc.
Among the rights enjoyed by US citizens are the right to vote, the ability to apply for a green card for other family members, and the right to live outside the US as long as desired without losing the right to return. An applicant for becoming a citizen by naturalization must be a green card holder and fulfill the following conditions—
What is application eligibility?
To apply for US citizenship through naturalization, one of the following must apply to you—
- If you have been a US green card holder for at least five years.
- If your spouse has been a US citizen for at least three years and you have been living together with him/her for at least three years by marriage.
- If section 319(B) of the Immigration and Nationality Act applies to you, i.e. your US citizen spouse is regularly engaged in specified employment outside the US.
- Or if you want to apply based on qualifying military service.
When to apply?
Here are some things to keep in mind when determining when to apply for US citizenship through naturalization:
- You have not lived outside of the United States for more than one consecutive year during the three or five years that you spent summers after you applied for naturalization.
- You were physically present in the United States for at least half of those three or five years when you applied for naturalization.
- You have lived in the US state from which you are applying for at least three months before applying.
Other things you need to prove are-
- You are over 18 years old.
- This article is provided for informational purposes only and not as legal advice of any kind—you can speak, read, and write the English language, and you can pass a test on American history and government.
- You shall at all times abide by the Constitution.
- You have good moral character.
Application-Procedure:
You have to apply by filling out Form N-400 accurately. Along with this, you have to attach copies of your green card, two copies of photos, and a fee of USD 725. However, if your annual household income is less than 150 percent of the U.S. federal poverty guideline or if you receive a means-tested benefit such as health care, food assistance, or housing, accurately complete a Form I-912 and attach the required evidence to Form N-400. - You can submit it for free. You may need to attach your marriage certificate where applicable. A few months after applying, the authorities will call you first for fingerprinting and then for an interview. USCIS will conduct a thorough background check before the interview. If they don't find a problem—such as some kind of fraud, including a name change, getting a green card earlier, or giving the wrong address on an application to receive benefits even though you're already a permanent resident. Immigration authorities will make an appointment to attend your swearing-in ceremony for a certain period of residence in the United States.
How is it possible without taking the test?
If you have a physical or developmental disability that prevents you from demonstrating your English language skills and knowledge of civics. You must have your doctor complete and submit Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exemption. In these cases, the law grants you citizenship without any test.
In two cases you can give the test which is conducted during the interview in your mother tongue
- If you are over 50 years of age and if you have lived in the US for more than 20 years.
- If you are over age 55 and have lived in the United States for more than 15 years.
- If you are over 65 and have lived in the US for more than 20 years, you will be given a simplified version of the test.
This article is not legal advice of any kind. (This is only an insert of the information appearing on the USCIS and US State Department websites.)
Visa-related-message:
The annual number of family-based and employment-based visas granted by the US federal government is limited. Applicants in this category are scheduled for interviews if their priority dates are up to date and visa numbers are current. Chances are though, the priority date may change, and the visa number may no longer be current at the time of the interview. If your category visa number is not current, your interview will still be on time, but your visa will not be issued until the priority date is updated and the new visa number is current. All immigrant visa applicants can check the visa bulletin on the State Department website (Visa Bulletin) to know the progress of their priority dates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I become a U.S. citizen?
You can become a U.S. citizen through the process of naturalization. This involves meeting specific eligibility criteria and completing the naturalization application.
What are the eligibility requirements for naturalization?
Eligibility criteria include being a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), having lived in the US for a long time, requiring direct presence, and having good moral character.
How long do I need to be a green card holder before applying for citizenship?
Generally, you must be a green card holder for at least 5 years before applying for U.S. citizenship. This period is reduced to 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen.
Are there age requirements for naturalization?
Yes, all applicants must be at least 18 years of age at the time of applying for the visa. Children born to U.S. citizen parents may acquire citizenship through different processes.
What is the English language requirement for naturalization?
Yes, All applicants must have a basic command of the English language. Must demonstrate ability to write, read, speak, and understand English. There are some exemptions when applying, which are applicable based on age and length of residence.
Are there exceptions to the English language requirement?
Yes, applicants who are at least 50 years old and have been a green card holder for at least 20 years, or those who are at least 55 years old and have been a green card holder for at least 15 years, are exempt from the English language requirement.
What is the civics test, and how do I prepare for it?
The civics test assesses knowledge of U.S. government and history. Study materials, including a list of questions and answers, are available for preparation.
Can I apply for citizenship if I have a criminal record?
Individuals with a criminal history may still be eligible for naturalization, but certain offenses may affect eligibility. A skilled and experienced immigration attorney can be consulted for better guidance and legal assistance.
Is dual citizenship allowed in the U.S.?
Yes, the U.S. generally permits dual citizenship, meaning individuals can hold citizenship in the U.S. and another country simultaneously.
How long does the naturalization process take?
The processing time varies, but it typically takes several months from the submission of the application to the naturalization ceremony.
What benefits do I gain as a U.S. citizen?
U.S. citizens enjoy rights such as voting in federal elections, eligibility for federal jobs, and the ability to petition for family members to immigrate to the U.S.
Remember, immigration laws and policies may change, and it's advisable to consult with legal professionals or refer to official government sources for the most up-to-date information on rules for obtaining U.S. citizenship.
