SEVEN STEPS TO U.S. CITIZENSHIP
SEVEN STEPS TO U.S. CITIZENSHIP
Requirements for Naturalization
You are at least 18 years old and have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years (3 years if you are married to a U.S. citizen) and meet all other requirements.
Download Application and Collect Documents Needed
- Click the link below to download the application (Form N-400) and the document checklist sheet.
- Complete Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
- Collect the documents needed to demonstrate eligibility.
- Review completed Form to ensure application is accurate.
Submit the Form
- Submit your application, fees, photographs, and documents.
- If you're seeking an exception to the English and/or civics requirement for naturalization because of a physical or developmental disability or mental impairment, submit form N-648.
View Citizenship Application Cost and Exceptions (Click Filing Fee Tab)
To Apply For a Reduced Fee Click Here
To Request a Fee Waiver Click Here
To Apply For a Medical Exception Click Here
Schedule an appointment for fingerprints
Before the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Department will schedule an interview, you must be fingerprinted in order to have background checks completed. If you are 75 years old or older at the time of filing, you're exempt from the payment requirement for biometrics.
Complete the interview
Report to the USCIS office on the date and time stated on your appointment notice. Take the English and civics test, unless you are exempt.
Receive a decision
Receive a written notice of decision from USCIS on your application.
Taking the Oath of Allegiance
You're not a U.S. Citizen until you take the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony. Complete the questionnaire Form N-445, Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony. Report to your oath ceremony and take the Oath of Allegiance to become a U.S. citizen. Turn in your oath ceremony form and take the Oath of Allegiance to become a U.S. citizen. Receive your Certificate of Naturalization and review it before leaving the ceremony site.