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2. Revolution
3. Civil War
4. Anthem/Flag
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12. The N-400

  
Basic Requirements for Naturalization
These are general requirements for applicants 18 or older as provided by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). There are other ways of obtaining US citizenship and other rules apply for certain applicants. For more specific information or to find out about citizenship for children, visit the USCIS website.

  Have a Green Card (Permanent Residence) for at least 5 years (or 3 years if you are married to a US citizen and have been married to and living with that same citizen for the past three years and your spouse has been a citizen for the past 3 years).
   
  5 years as a Permanent Resident without leaving the United States for trips of 6 months or longer. If you leave the U.S. for more than 6 months, but less than 1 year, you have broken your "continuous residence" unless you can prove otherwise. In almost all cases, if you leave the U.S. for 1 year or more, you have disrupted your "continuous residence."
   
  At least 30 months of being physically present in the United States.
   
  At least 3 months of residence in the district or state where the application is filed.
   
  To be eligible for naturalization, you must be a person of good moral character. The BCIS determines whether an applicant has good moral character based things such as: criminal records, lying, failure to pay taxes or child support, illegal gambling, substance abuse, etc. It is very important to seek the advice of an immigration attorney if you have any doubts about your eligibility for Good Moral Character.
   
  Applicants must demonstrate an understanding of English (including speaking, writing, listening and reading) and a basic knowledge of US history and government. Certain applicants may have different English and civic requirements because of age or disability. For more information see the USCIS.
   
  All applicants must be willing to support and defend the US and our Constitution. You show your "attachment" to the Constitution when you take the Oath of Allegiance. You do not become a US citizen until you take the Oath. There are certain people who may be exempt from taking the Oath of Allegiance. For more information see the USCIS.


 


 

 
     

This site was created by the International Rescue Committee (San Diego). The development of this product was supported by federal funds for adult education and literacy services under the Workforce Investment Act, Title II, Adult Education and Family Literacy Act, through a grant from the California Department of Education, Adult Education Office. However, the content does not necessarily reflect the position of the California Department of Education or the United States Department of Education.
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