Naturalization Process

There are a number of steps that are required to become a U.S. citizen. As mentioned before an applicant must be physically present in the United States for a set period of time and have residency in the United States for a certain period of time. Once these requirements are met the individual may apply for citizenship.

In order to apply for citizenship, the prospective individual should get all documents relating to time in the country, employment, time spent outside the country, a copy of their visa and any immigration documents they may posses. It is also important to have a document(s) stating how and when the immigrant entered the United States.

An applicant must show an understanding of the English language, history, principles and form of government of the United States.

English Language - an ability to read, write and speak words in ordinary usage in the English Language. The applicant must be able to read and write simple words that are necessary to take the naturalization test.

History, Principles and Form of Government - the applicant is required to know basic information regarding the history (e.g. formation of the U.S., civil war, involvement in WWII); principles - freedom of the press, religious tolerance, separation of church and state; and form of government - legislative/executive/judicial branch separation and representative democracy.

These requirements may not be applicable to all applicants depending on the circumstances.

The applicant must meet a good moral character requirement, believe and/or promote the principles of the Constitution and have a favorable disposition to the United States. Good moral character is related to moral turpitude (which will be discussed in bars to admission) and can be generally understood as the U.S. wanting to make citizens those who are willing and able to follow the law. The applicant must believe and promote the U.S. government and the principles of the Constitution. Advocating the overthrow of the government or the killing of The House of Representatives will likely prevent the applicant from becoming a U.S. citizen.

All of the above information must be provided to the immigration services when applying for citizenship. Complete honestly is highly recommended when filing with the immigration services. If one of the government organizations handling your case discovers you lied on your application there is a possibility it will become a permanent bar from entry or citizenship!

Assuming all of this goes well, the next step after paying the filing fee is to have an interview with an immigration officer. This is one of the most important steps in the naturalization process. If you pass your interview you will be given the opportunity to take your oath shortly after approval. Upon taking the Oath you become a U.S. citizen.