Naturalization Eligibility and Process

Naturalization is the legal process for lawful permanent residents to become U.S. citizens. Unlike citizenship acquired at birth, it requires meeting strict eligibility criteria, including residency, language skills, and good moral character.

Core Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and hold a green card for five years, or three years if married to a U.S. citizen. They need continuous residence for the full period, physical presence for at least half that time, and residency in the application state or USCIS district for three months prior.

English and Civics Tests

Most applicants must pass an English test for reading, writing, and speaking, plus a civics test on U.S. history and government. Exemptions apply for those 50+ with 20 years of residency (native language civics test) or 65+ with 20 years (simplified test).

Good Moral Character and 2025 Updates

Good moral character is required for the full residency period, now evaluated holistically with positive factors like employment history, tax compliance, community involvement, and education. Recent changes include tighter background checks, social media reviews, and potential neighborhood investigations.