U.S. Citizenship
For many foreign nationals, becoming a United States citizen represents the ultimate achievement after making significant sacrifices to live and work in America. By taking the oath of allegiance and pledging loyalty to the U.S. Constitution, individuals gain the full rights, freedoms, and privileges of citizenship. To obtain U.S. citizenship through naturalization, foreign citizens or nationals must meet specific requirements set by Congress under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). There are also several pathways available for eligible applicants, including:
Green Card Holders
Permanent resident green card holders must meet a number of requirements in order to obtain U.S. Citizenship. The requirements are as follows:
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Be 18 or older
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Be a green card holder for at least 5 years
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Lived within the state, or USICS district, for at least 3 months prior to applying
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Continuous residence in the U.S. as a green card holder for at least 5 years
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Physical presence in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of the 5 years
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Reside continuously in the U.S. from application to time of naturalization
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Be able to read, write and speak English
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Have a knowledge of U.S. history and government
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Be a person of good moral character and loyal to the principles of the Constitution
Green Card Holders Married to U.S. Citizens
Green card holders married to a U.S. citizen may qualify for naturalization under special eligibility requirements. These include being a permanent resident for at least three years, remaining married to and living with the same U.S. citizen spouse during that period, and meeting additional residency and physical presence requirements.
Green Card Holders in the Military
U.S. immigration recognizes and honors the dedication of foreign nationals who serve in the armed forces. As a result, military service members, along with their spouses and children, may qualify for an expedited path to citizenship. When needed, this naturalization process can also be completed while stationed overseas.
Citizenship Through Parents
Foreign nationals can acquire U.S. citizenship through their parents via two separate routes: at birth or after birth but before reaching 18. Children born outside the U.S. are eligible for citizenship if both parents were U.S. citizens at the time of birth, or if one parent was a U.S. citizen when the child was born and the birth occurred.