Citizenship through naturalization is a process in which a non-U.S. citizen voluntarily becomes an American citizen. U.S. citizens owe their allegiance to the United States and are entitled to its protection and to exercise their right and responsibilities as citizens.

To apply for U.S. citizenship, you must:

• Have had a Permanent Residency (a Green Card) for at least five years, or for at least three years if you’re filing as the spouse of a U.S citizen
• Have a Permanent Resident card valid for at least six months at the time of filing
• Have lived within the state, or USCIS district with jurisdiction over the applicant’s place of residence, for at least 3 months prior to the date of filing the application. Students may apply for naturalization either where they go to school or where their family lives (if they are still financially dependent on their parents).
• Meet certain eligibility requirements including being:
  • At least 18 years old at the time of filing
  • Able to read, write, and speak basic English
  • A person of good moral character
  • Have continuous residence in the United States as a green card holder for at least 5 years immediately preceding the date of filing the application
  • Be physically present in the United States for at least 30 months out of the 5 years immediately preceding the date of filing the application
  • Reside continuously within the United States from the date of application for naturalization up to the time of naturalization