What are the requirements for becoming a U.S. citizen? Well, only certain immigrants are eligible: those who have either been green card holders (permanent residents) for three to five years or those that meet various military service requirements. In addition to waiting three to five years after getting a green card, these individuals must also satisfy the following requirements:
- Be a lawful permanent resident
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be a person of good moral character
- Have physical presence and continuous residence in the U.S. for a certain amount of time
- Have basic knowledge of U.S. civics
- Be able to read, write, and speak English (some exceptions apply)
- Pay the $725 fee or qualify for a full or partial fee waiver
- Be ready to take the U.S. Oath of Allegiance
There is also an English test and a naturalization test where applicants must answer questions related to U.S. history, government, geography, American symbols and American holidays. Questions range from easy to complex. They include:
- Under our Constitution, some powers belong to the states.
- What is one power of the states?
- The Federalist Papers supported the passage of the U.S. Constitution. Name one of the writers.
- Name one U.S. territory.
To see more of the questions (and answers) that applicants must answer and to find more information on the naturalization process, visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services page. You can apply for citizenship online by visiting citizenshipworks.org.
Find further naturalization information and assistance here.