All foreign national adults (individuals 18 years+) who have a green card may be eligible to become U.S. citizens! There are a number of benefits to becoming a U.S. citizen, such as getting the right to vote.
In addition to U.S. citizenship providing you with direct benefits, your U.S. citizenship can potentially provide for your children under the age of 18 to become U.S. citizens. If this is true for you then your children will be eligible for a Certificate of Citizenship once you naturalize and become a U.S. citizen!
Am I eligible?
If you have a green card and are 18 years of age or older you can apply for U.S. citizenship if you:
- Have been a lawful permanent resident (have had a green card) for at least 5 years or 3 years if married to a U.S.citizen;
- Have continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S.;
- Are able to read, write, and speak basic English and possess a knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government;
- Are a person of good moral character;
- Are willing to support and defend the principles of the U.S. Constitution and laws of the U.S.; and
- Be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance.
What’s the process?
To apply for citizenship, you must file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization together with your supporting documents to USCIS. Once USCIS receives your application, you will be scheduled an appointment to have your biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) taken. Once USCIS is ready to make a decision on your case, you will be scheduled to appear at an interview at a local USCIS field office. During your interview, the USCIS officer will ask you questions about your application, background, as well as take an reading and writing English test and a civics test. If the USCIS officer approves your case you will receive a decision in the mail along with your date of your Oath of Allegiance ceremony date!
