- Be at least 18 years of age at the time you file the application;
- Have been a lawful permanent resident for the past three or five years (depending on which naturalization category you are applying under);
- Have continuous residence and physical presence in the United States;
What are the four ways to become a U.S. citizen?
In all, there are four fundamental ways to become a U.S. citizen: citizenship by birth in the U.S., citizenship through derivation, citizenship through acquisition, and citizenship through naturalization . Most immigrants in the United States become citizens through the naturalization process.
Who is eligible to become a US citizen?
In general, you may qualify for naturalization if you are at least 18 years old and have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years (or 3 years if you are married to a U.S. citizen) and meet all other eligibility requirements.
What are the 5 requirements to become a U.S. citizen?
- Age. ...
- Residency. ...
- Residence and Physical Presence. ...
- Good Moral Character. ...
- Attachment to the Constitution. ...
- Language. ...
- U.S. Government and History Knowledge. ...
- Oath of Allegiance.
Can a foreigner become a U.S. citizen?
Naturalization is the process through which an immigrant to the United States can become a U.S. citizen. Only certain immigrants are eligible: those who either have been green card holders (permanent residents) for 3–5 years or meet various military service requirements.
Is it hard to become a U.S. citizen?
The chances to become a United States citizen depend mainly on how tricky it is for you to first become a permanent resident and get a green card. If you're extremely educated and can find work, you can expect to get citizenship in just over 5 years after becoming a green card owner.
How much does it cost to become a U.S. citizen?
Currently it costs $725 to become a U.S. citizen through the naturalization process (for most applicants). However, some individuals may qualify for a fee waiver. When filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, you must pay two separate fees: an application fee and a biometric services fee.
What's the fastest way to become a US citizen?
The fastest way to get a US green card is through sponsorship from an immediate relative . Unlike other permanent resident visa categories, the IR visa is not subject to quotas or lengthy waiting periods. You are eligible for this visa if you are a spouse, child under 21, or parent of a current US citizen.
How long does it take to become a US citizen 2020?
The average processing time for citizenship (naturalization) applications is 8 months as of May 31, 2020. However, that's just how long it takes USCIS to process Form N-400. The entire naturalization process has several steps and takes an average of 15 months.
How much does it cost to become a US citizen in 2021?
The current naturalization fee for a U.S. citizenship application is $725 . That total includes $640 for application processing and $85 for biometrics services, both of which are nonrefundable, regardless of whether the U.S. government approves or rejects an application.
How can I get permanent residency in USA?
Apply for a Green Card
If you are eligible, file Form I-485 – Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status with USCIS, including all supporting documents and fees. USCIS will review your application and schedule an interview with you. Once issued, your Green Card will be valid for 10 years.
Do you have to speak English to become an American citizen?
You don't need to have perfect English. However, you must have a decent-enough knowledge to function as a citizen . The English test for U.S. citizenship may be retaken a second time in the event that you do not pass it the first time.
How long does it take to get a green card?
It takes 7 to 33 months to process a Green Card application.
The Green Card processing time depends on the type of Green Card you are applying for, the location of the processing office and other factors. Family Preference Green Cards processing takes from 1 to 10 years depending on the wait time and yearly caps.
How long does it take for a foreigner to become a U.S. citizen?
Currently, it takes about six months to a year to get U.S. citizenship from the time you apply. The process starts when you first get your green card, but there's no accurate way to tell how long each application will take. Your unique circumstances will determine your application status.
Is it hard to get a green card?
Applying for a green card isn't easy for anyone. The law is complicated, and the paperwork tough to deal with . You might wish to consult with an immigration attorney to get help and to learn what you can do to minimize the risk of your application being denied. Learn more about how much this might cost.
What is the difference between green card and citizenship?
While many people often use “permanent resident” and “citizen” interchangeably, there is a lot of difference between the two. While a naturalised US citizen will enjoy every right afforded by the US Constitution, Green Card holders enjoy limited privileges .
