The Becraft Guide on How to Become a US Citizen

1. Eligibility: Are You Ready to Apply?

Before you can apply for U.S. citizenship, you need to meet several requirements that ensure you've established yourself in the United States.

A. Lawful Permanent Resident Status

The first step is holding the status of a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) — also known as having a green card. Most lawful permanent residents got their green card through family sponsorship, employment, or by being granted refugee or asylee status. Pathways to LPR status include:

• Family Sponsorship
• Employment-Based Immigration
• Diversity Visa Lottery
• Asylum or Refugee Status
• Special Immigrant Categories (religious workers, international organization employees, U.S. military service members)

B. Continuous Residence

Once you have your green card, you need to have lived in the United States continuously for a certain period:

• Five years of continuous residence is required for most applicants.
• Three years of continuous residence is required if you are married to a U.S. citizen.

C. Physical Presence

• You must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of the last five years.
• If applying based on marriage to a U.S. citizen, 18 months out of the last three years.

D. Good Moral Character

You must demonstrate good moral character, meaning you've followed the laws, paid your taxes, and acted responsibly. Certain behaviors — such as committing serious crimes or failing to file taxes — can disqualify you.

E. Basic English Proficiency

You need to show basic proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking English, tested during your citizenship interview. The test focuses on everyday language skills and uses simple sentences.

F. Knowledge of U.S. History and Civics

You'll need to pass a civics test covering basic U.S. history and government. USCIS provides a list of 100 potential questions. You'll be asked up to 10 during your interview and need to get at least six correct.

2. The Naturalization Process: Step-by-Step

A. Filing Form N-400

The first step is submitting Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. This form asks for information about your personal history, including address, employment, and travel history. The form can be filed online or by mail, and fees include a filing fee and biometrics fee.

B. Biometrics Appointment

USCIS will schedule you for a biometrics appointment where your fingerprints, photo, and signature are collected for a background check.

C. The Naturalization Interview and Tests

A USCIS officer will review your application and ask you questions to verify information. During the interview you'll also take:

• English Test: You'll be asked to read and write simple sentences in English, and answer a few basic spoken questions.
• Civics Test: You'll be asked up to 10 questions about American history and government — you need to get six correct to pass.

D. The Oath of Allegiance

The final step is taking the Oath of Allegiance at your naturalization ceremony. You'll recite the oath alongside other new citizens and receive your Certificate of Naturalization — your official proof of U.S. citizenship.

3. Life as a U.S. Citizen

Once you've completed the naturalization process, you'll enjoy all the rights and privileges of citizenship:

• The right to vote in federal, state, and local elections.
• Apply for a U.S. passport for easier international travel.
• Sponsor family members for a green card.
• Access to federal jobs and security clearances.
• Full participation in jury duty and civic life.

4. Special Circumstances and Exceptions

• Military Service: May qualify for expedited naturalization without the usual residence requirements.
• Older Applicants: Applicants 50+ who have lived in the U.S. as a green card holder for 20+ years may take the civics test in their native language.
• Medical Exemptions: Applicants with physical or mental disabilities may qualify for a waiver from the English or civics tests.