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Lessons
1. Pilgrims
2. Revolution
3. Civil War
4. Anthem/Flag
5. Constitution
6. Executive
7. Legislative
8. Judicial
9. State/Local
10. 20th Century
11. Oath
12. The N-400

  
Steps to Naturalization

These are general steps for applicants 18 or older as provided by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Other steps may be necessary for certain applicants. For more specific information or to find out about citizenship for children, visit the  USCIS website.
 
1   File the N-400 application. Many social service agencies have citizenship programs that may help you to complete your naturalization paperwork. You may also want to seek the advice of an immigration attorney before applying. Click here to download a copy of the N-400 from the USCIS website.
2
   If you are under the age of 75, you will receive a notice to be fingerprinted after your paperwork is filed with the USCIS. The notice will tell you where and when to go to have your fingerprints taken.
3   Some weeks or months after the fingerprint appointment, you will receive a notice in the mail to appear for your naturalization interview. At your interview, the officer will ask you questions about your eligibility for naturalization, test your English ability and your knowledge of US history and government.

Applicants who are found eligible for citizenship have two chances to pass the civics and English portion of the Interview. If you do not pass the test the first time, you may be allowed to take the test a second time without reapplying.
4   The final step to naturalization is the Oath Ceremony, also called the "Swearing-In Ceremony." After you pass your citizenship interview, you will receive a notice from the USCIS with the date and time of your ceremony. You do not become a US citizen until you complete this step. At that ceremony you will take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States and receive your naturalization certificate.

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 website.
5   After you get your naturalization certificate, you may want to apply for a US passport. If you lose your naturalization certificate it can take months or even years to get a replacement certificate.

You should also register to vote so that you can fully participate in your civic duties. There will be information about registering to vote at your naturalization ceremony.

 
     

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.
The information contained herein should not be construed as legal advice and/or replace legal counsel.  Individuals are advised to seek legal counsel and/or representation if they have questions related to their immigration status and/or related immigration applications/petitions.

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