If you want to become a United States citizen, you’ll need to go through the naturalization process. This is the most common pathway for immigrants to acquire U.S. citizenship, as it allows you to enjoy the full rights, privileges, and responsibilities that come with being an American citizen.
Becoming naturalized is a long process, and it can become a lot longer if you make any mistakes in your documents. If you’re considering naturalization, you may be wondering how it works and what to expect.
FileRight’s guide to how to become an American citizen through naturalization will explain the basics. If you decide you’re ready to begin the naturalization process, we also offer safe and secure online software that will help you navigate the naturalization process on your own.
What You Need to Know About Naturalization
- Naturalization and Citizenship Explained
- How to Become a U.S. Citizen Through Naturalization?
- The Benefits of U.S. Citizenship Through Naturalization
- Naturalization Wait Time in 2024
- The Cost of Naturalization in 2024
- U.S. Naturalization Guide Frequently Asked Questions
- Evidence You Need to Provide to Become an American Citizen Through Naturalization
- How FileRight Can Help You Apply for Naturalization
Naturalization and Citizenship Explained
The first thing you need to know about the process of naturalization and citizenship is to be eligible for naturalization, you must meet certain requirements. What are the requirements for naturalization? They include:
- Being at least 18 years old
- Holding a green card (permanent resident status) for a specified period
- Demonstrating continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S.
- Having good moral character
- Displaying proficiency in English and knowledge of U.S. history and government
Once you have gone through naturalization, you will have the right to vote in federal elections, run for elected office (except for the presidency), travel with a U.S. passport, bring your family members to the U.S., and access certain government benefits. You will also take on responsibilities such as serving on a jury and defending the Constitution.
Dual Citizenship and Naturalization
You may be wondering if you are eligible for dual citizenship once you are naturalized. Naturalized U.S. citizens may retain their citizenship in their country of origin, depending on that country’s laws regarding dual citizenship. The U.S. allows dual citizenship, but some countries may not. You will need to check your country’s laws to learn if you are eligible.
How to Become a U.S. Citizen Through Naturalization?
So what is the process of becoming a United States citizen through naturalization? Once you’ve met the requirements, there are several steps. These include:
- Preparing and submitting Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization): This step includes gathering the required documents (e.g., green card, passport, tax returns), completing the application accurately and thoroughly, and submitting the application with the appropriate fees to USCIS.
- Attending the biometrics appointment: To complete this step, you will receive an appointment notice from USCIS. You will then attend the appointment to provide fingerprints, photographs, and a signature for background checks.
- Preparing for the naturalization interview and civics test: In this next step, you will need to study U.S. history and government using USCIS resources and practice your English language skills.
- Attending the naturalization interview: Next, you will have your naturalization interview. You’ll need to bring the required documents and demonstrate your proficiency in English and knowledge of U.S. history and government. You will also need to answer questions about your background and application
- Taking the Oath of Allegiance: After the interview, the next step is taking the Oath of Allegiance. First, you will receive a notice with the date and location of your naturalization ceremony. Next, you’ll attend the ceremony and take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States. Finally, you will receive your Certificate of Naturalization.
- Applying for a U.S. passport and updating your records: In this last step, you will apply for a U.S. passport as proof of your citizenship. You will then need to update your Social Security record and other relevant documents
It is essential to meet all eligibility requirements, follow the application procedures accurately, and provide truthful information throughout the naturalization process. Reach out to FileRight for help ensuring a smooth and successful application process.
The Benefits of U.S. Citizenship Through Naturalization
When it comes to the process of naturalization, it’s worth the time and effort. The benefits of becoming a United States citizen through the naturalization process are significant, and because of this, it is a significant milestone in many immigrants’ lives. These are some of the main benefits:
- Sense of belonging: Becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization can provide you with a sense of belonging and acceptance in your adoptive country. It signifies that you are fully recognized as a member of American society.
- Voting rights: As a naturalized citizen, you will gain the right to vote in federal, state, and local elections, allowing you to actively participate in the democratic process and have a say in choosing your representatives.
- Access to government jobs: Many government jobs, including some elected offices, require U.S. citizenship. Naturalization can open up new career opportunities to you in public service.
- Protection from deportation: Naturalized citizens are generally protected from deportation, providing you with a sense of security and stability for yourself and your family.
- Travel benefits: U.S. citizens can travel with an American passport, which is recognized worldwide and often provides easier access to many countries. You will also have the right to receive U.S. government assistance while abroad.
- Family reunification: As a naturalized citizen, you can sponsor immediate family members (spouse, children, and parents) for permanent residency, making it easier for your family to reunite and live together in the United States.
- Access to government benefits: As a U.S. citizen, you will be eligible for certain government benefits, such as Social Security, Medicare, and some scholarships and financial aid programs.
- Civic duties: Naturalization comes with civic responsibilities, such as serving on a jury when called upon and defending the Constitution. Fulfilling these duties can provide you with a sense of pride and commitment to your adopted country.
- Symbolic significance: For many immigrants, naturalization is a symbolic completion of your journey and a celebration of your hard work, perseverance, and dedication to making the United States your permanent home.
Naturalization Wait Time in 2024
How long will you have to wait to become a U.S. citizen? Naturalization wait times can vary depending on several factors, such as the USCIS field office processing your application, the volume of applications received, and your individual case circumstances. Here are some general estimates about what you can expect in 2024:
Form N-400 Processing Time
The average processing time for Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) is between 10 to 14 months. However, some field offices may have shorter or longer processing times depending on their workload and staffing levels.
Factors That May Affect Processing Times
- Background checks: More extensive background checks may be required for some applicants, which can lengthen the processing time.
- Request for Evidence (RFE): If USCIS needs additional information or documentation, they will issue an RFE, which can add several weeks or months to the process.
- Interview scheduling: The waiting period for the naturalization interview can vary depending on the field office’s capacity and the number of applicants in the queue.
Expedited Processing
In some cases, you may be eligible for expedited processing if you meet certain criteria, such as facing exceptional circumstances or urgent needs. However, expedited processing is not guaranteed and is granted on a case-by-case basis.
Delays and COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to some delays in processing times due to office closures, reduced staff capacity, and the implementation of safety measures. As of 2024, USCIS is likely to have made significant progress in reducing the backlog caused by the pandemic, but some delays may still persist.
It is essential to check the USCIS website for the most up-to-date processing times for your specific field office and to plan accordingly. Working with FileRight can help you navigate the naturalization process more efficiently and address any potential issues that may arise along the way.
The Cost of Naturalization in 2024
One of the biggest concerns you may have about naturalization is how much it’s going to cost. Unfortunately, as of 2024, the cost of naturalization is expected to be higher than previous years due to inflation and potential fee increases. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated costs:
- Form N-400 filing fee: The filing fee for Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) is expected to be around $725 to $800. This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is denied.
- Biometrics fee: The biometrics fee, which covers the cost of fingerprinting and background checks, is likely to be around $85 to $100. This fee is paid separately from the filing fee and is also non-refundable.
- Legal fees (optional): If you choose to hire an immigration attorney to assist with your naturalization application, your legal fees can vary widely depending on the attorney’s experience, location, and the complexity of your case.
- Preparation costs: You may also incur additional costs while preparing for your naturalization application, such as fees for obtaining required documents (e.g., birth or marriage certificates), translation services, and English language or civics classes.
- Travel costs: If you need to travel to attend your biometrics appointment, naturalization interview, or oath ceremony, you may also incur additional expenses for transportation, lodging, and meals.
In total, the cost of naturalization in 2024 can range from approximately $800 to $1,000 in government fees alone. When factoring in potential legal fees and other preparation costs, the total expense can be significantly higher.
It’s important to note that USCIS fees are always subject to change, so be sure to check the official USCIS website for the most up-to-date information on naturalization costs. Additionally, some applicants may be eligible for fee waivers or reductions based on your financial situation.
U.S. Naturalization Guide Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Most Asked Questions on the US Citizenship Interview?
During the U.S. citizenship interview, applicants are asked up to 10 questions from the list of 100 civics questions provided by USCIS. While all 100 questions are fair game, some questions are more frequently asked than others. The most common questions include:
- What is the supreme law of the land? Answer: The Constitution
- What does the Constitution do? Answer: Sets up the government, defines the government, protects basic rights of Americans
- What is an amendment? Answer: A change (to the Constitution), an addition (to the Constitution)
- What is the economic system in the United States? Answer: Capitalist economy, market economy
- Name one branch or part of the government. Answer: Congress, legislative, President, executive, the courts, judicial
- Who makes federal laws? Answer: Congress, Senate and House (of Representatives), (U.S. or national) legislature
- Who is the Commander in Chief of the military? Answer: The President
- Who signs bills to become laws? Answer: The President
- Who vetoes bills? Answer: The President
- What is the highest court in the United States? Answer: The Supreme Court
Other frequently asked questions cover topics such as the Bill of Rights, the Founding Fathers, the three branches of government, and the rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizens.
It’s essential for applicants to study all 100 questions thoroughly, as the specific questions asked during the interview can vary. Applicants must answer six out of ten questions correctly to pass the civics portion of the naturalization test. You’ll also be tested on your English proficiency.
What Is the Hardest Naturalization Question?
The difficulty of naturalization questions can vary depending on your background, language proficiency, and familiarity with U.S. history and civics. However, some questions are more frequently missed or considered more challenging by test-takers. One such question is:
“What is the rule of law?”
This question is often considered difficult because it requires a conceptual understanding rather than simple memorization of facts. The correct answer is:
“Everyone must follow the law.”
Other possible answers include:
- Leaders must obey the law.
- Government must obey the law.
- No one is above the law.
The concept of the rule of law is fundamental to the U.S. political system and is derived from the idea that all people and institutions are subject to and accountable to the law, which is fairly and equally enforced.
It’s important to note that the difficulty of naturalization questions can be subjective, and what one person finds challenging may be easier for another.
How Many People Fail the U.S. Citizenship Interview?
You may be nervous about the U.S. citizenship interview pass/fail rate, but the good news is the vast majority of applicants pass the U.S. citizenship interview. According to data from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the national pass rate for the naturalization test is consistently high, averaging above 90% in recent years. Here’s a breakdown:
- In the fiscal year 2021, the national pass rate for the naturalization test was 90.1%.
- In the fiscal year 2020, the national pass rate was 91.5%.
- In the fiscal year 2019, the pass rate was 90.1%.
It’s important to note that these pass rates include both the English language proficiency and civics portions of the naturalization test.
Some common reasons why applicants might fail the citizenship interview include:
- Failing the English language proficiency test (reading, writing, and speaking).
- Answering fewer than six out of ten questions correctly on the civics test.
- Lack of proper documentation or discrepancies in the N-400 application.
- Failure to meet continuous residence or physical presence requirements.
- Criminal history or other issues related to good moral character.
How to Increase Your Chances of Passing the U.S. Citizenship Interview?
Luckily, there are steps you can take to increase the chances of passing the U.S. citizenship interview. These include:
- Studying the 100 civics questions and practicing your English language skills.
- Ensuring that your N-400 application is complete, accurate, and consistent with your supporting documents.
- Maintaining continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S. as required.
- Disclosing any criminal history or other issues that may affect your eligibility for naturalization.
- Seeking guidance from an immigration attorney if you have a complex case or concerns about your eligibility.
Remember that even if you fail the citizenship interview, you may be given a second chance to retake the portion of the test you failed (English or civics) within 60 to 90 days.
What Is the 65 20 Rule for Naturalization?
The “65/20 rule” is a special provision in U.S. naturalization requirements that offers an exemption from the English language proficiency test for certain applicants based on their age and length of permanent resident status.
Under this rule, if you meet the following criteria you are exempt from the English language requirement, but you are still required to take the civics test in your native language:
- Age: If you are 65 years old or older at the time of filing your naturalization application (Form N-400).
- Permanent Resident Status: If you have been a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for at least 20 years at the time of filing your naturalization application.
If you meet both of these requirements, you will be allowed to take the civics test in your native language with the assistance of an interpreter. However, you must still meet all other naturalization requirements.
It’s important to note that the “65/20 rule” is not the same as the “50/20 rule” or “55/15 rule,” which are similar provisions that allow applicants aged 50 or 55 with 20 or 15 years of permanent resident status, respectively, to take the civics test in their native language. However, these applicants must still take the English language test unless they qualify for a medical disability exemption.
What Is the 4 Year 1 Day Rule for U.S. Citizenship?
The “4 year and 1 day rule” is a concept related to the continuous residence requirement for U.S. naturalization. It comes into play when a permanent resident is absent from the United States for more than 6 months but less than 1 year during the 5-year period (or 3-year period for spouses of U.S. citizens) preceding their application for naturalization.
Here’s how it works:
- If you are a permanent resident who is absent from the U.S. for more than 6 months but less than 1 year, you are presumed to have broken your continuous residence for naturalization purposes.
- However, this presumption can be overcome if you can provide evidence that you did not abandon your U.S. residence during the absence, such as maintaining a U.S. job, home, or close family ties.
- If the absence is one year or longer, you will be considered to have automatically broken your continuous residence, and you must wait until you have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 4 years and 1 day before you can apply for naturalization.
For example, if you leave the U.S. for 11 months and then return, you may still be eligible to apply for naturalization after accruing the necessary continuous residence period (5 years for most applicants, or 3 years for spouses of U.S. citizens). However, if your absence was 1 year or longer, you must wait 4 years and 1 day from the date of your return before you can apply for naturalization.
It’s important to note that this rule applies to the continuous residence requirement only. Permanent residents must also meet the physical presence requirement, which stipulates that you must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least half of the required continuous residence period (2.5 years for most applicants, or 1.5 years for spouses of U.S. citizens).
If you plan to be absent from the U.S. for an extended period, it’s advisable to consult with an immigration attorney to understand how it may impact your eligibility for naturalization and to explore options for preserving your continuous residence, such as applying for a reentry permit before your departure.
Evidence You Need to Provide to Become an American Citizen Through Naturalization
To become an American citizen through naturalization, you’ll need to provide evidence that demonstrates your eligibility and fulfillment of the requirements. Here are the documents and evidence you’ll need to provide:
Evidence of continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S.:
- Utility bills, rental agreements, or mortgage documents
- Employment records, pay stubs, or tax returns
- School records, diplomas, or transcripts
- Religious or community organization records
- Tax returns or IRS transcripts for the past 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
Evidence of good moral character:
- Criminal history records, if applicable
- Documentation of any arrests, charges, or convictions
- Evidence of completing probation or paying fines
Evidence of marriage to a U.S. citizen, if applicable:
- Marriage certificate
- Spouse’s birth certificate or naturalization certificate
- Joint financial documents or property ownership records
Evidence of English language proficiency and knowledge of U.S. civics:
- If you’re applying based on qualifying military service, you may be exempt from this requirement.
- If you’re over 50 or 55 with a certain period of permanent residency (20 or 15 years, respectively), you may be exempted from the English language test and be allowed to take the civics test in your native language.
- Two passport-style photographs.
- Application fees (Form N-400 filing fee and biometric fee, if applicable).
Any additional documents required based on your individual circumstances, such as:
- Selective Service registration for males aged 18-26
- Evidence of child support payments, if applicable
- Divorce decrees or death certificates for previous marriages
It’s essential to provide complete and accurate documentation to avoid delays in processing your naturalization application. If USCIS requires additional evidence or clarification, they will send you a Request for Evidence (RFE) with specific instructions on what to provide.
Working with FileRight can be helpful in ensuring you have all the necessary evidence and navigating the naturalization process smoothly.
How FileRight Can Help You Apply for Naturalization
FileRight provides immigrants who want to become United States citizens with help completing the naturalization process. Our streamlined process makes it easier for you to apply. Simply select and purchase your package online, answer a series of step-by-step questions, and our proprietary technology will complete the forms for you.
Once you’re finished, you’ll receive a PDF with your completed forms and personalized filing instructions. Print, sign, and mail your application package along with the required government filing fees to the USCIS. After that, you’ll wait for your confirmation of receipt letter from USCIS.
