US naturalization

Who this pathway suits

Permanent residents who have held a Green Card for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a US citizen).

Eligibility at a glance

• At least 18 years old
• Permanent resident for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to and living with a US citizen)
• Continuous residence in the US (no single absence of 6+ months without rebutting presumption)
• Physical presence in the US for at least 30 months out of the 5 years (or 18 months out of 3 years)
• Reside in state/district of filing for at least 3 months
• Good moral character for the statutory period
• Pass English reading, writing, and speaking test and US Civics test

How the process works

1. Submit Form N-400 online via USCIS account
2. Attend biometrics appointment (often reused)
3. Attend naturalization interview and pass civics and English tests
4. Take Oath of Allegiance at public ceremony
5. Receive Certificate of Naturalization and apply for US passport

Documents you will typically need

• Form N-400, Green Card copy, marriage certificate and tax returns (if applying on 3-year rule), passport travel history

What to keep in mind

US law allows dual citizenship; you are not required to give up foreign citizenship under American law.