U.S. Citizenship & Naturalization
To naturalize, you generally must be 18+, a green card holder for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to and living with a U.S. citizen), meet residence and physical-presence rules, show good moral character, and pass an English and civics test. You apply on Form N-400 and become a citizen at the Oath of Allegiance.
By Find Local Law Editorial Team · Last reviewed: May 24, 2026
Researched and drafted with AI assistance and verified against primary sources (statutes, Judicial Council forms, and official court websites). This is general information, not legal advice.
Immigration is federal law and policy changes frequently. This is general information, not legal advice — verify current rules at uscis.gov and consult a qualified immigration attorney.
Naturalization is how a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) becomes a U.S. citizen.
Who’s eligible
Generally, you must:
- Be 18 or older when you file;
- Have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years — or 3 years if married to and living with a U.S. citizen;
- Meet continuous residence and physical presence requirements (at least 30 months of physical presence in the 5-year path; 18 months in the 3-year path);
- Show good moral character; and
- Pass an English and civics test (with some age/residency exemptions).
You can file up to 90 days early.
The process
- File Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization.
- Biometrics appointment, if required.
- Interview with a USCIS officer, including the English and civics tests (unless exempt).
- Oath of Allegiance — you become a citizen only when you take the oath at the ceremony.
Tests and exemptions
The civics test covers U.S. history and government. Applicants who meet certain age and residency thresholds (for example 50/20, 55/15, 65/20) may be exempt from the English requirement or take a simplified civics test.
Fees change, so confirm the current N-400 fee on USCIS. For help, connect with a lawyer.
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Start your free intakeFrequently asked questions
- How long must I have a green card before applying for citizenship?
- Generally 5 years as a lawful permanent resident — or 3 years if you're married to and living with a U.S. citizen. You can file up to 90 days before meeting the time requirement.
- What form is used for naturalization?
- Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, filed online or by mail with USCIS.
- Do I have to speak English and take a test?
- Generally yes — there's an English requirement and a civics test on U.S. history and government. Some applicants qualify for exemptions based on age and years as a permanent resident (for example, 50/20, 55/15, and 65/20).
- When do I actually become a citizen?
- Only after you take the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony — approval of the application alone doesn't make you a citizen.