From Green Card to Citizen: 5 Things You Need to Get It Right
Your roadmap from permanent resident to proud U.S. citizen, broken down into 5 key steps
I dare you to think of something more intimidating than applying for a US citizenship. You can’t, can you? Not to worry, just follow and keep track of these 5 things and you’re golden!
Key Takeaways
Steps | Requirements/Necessities |
Confirm Eligibility | At least 18 years old, with permanent residence for 5 years and basic knowledge of English |
Seek Legal Guidance | Qualified immigration attorneys > self-help |
N-400 Application | Must-have to gain naturalized US citizenship |
Study for the Test | Basic reading, writing, and speaking of English, and knowledge of US History & Civics |
Interview Prep | Speak well and ensure document accuracy |
Key Takeaways
Steps | Requirements/Necessities |
Confirm Eligibility | At least 18 years old, with permanent residence for 5 years and basic knowledge of English |
Seek Legal Guidance | Qualified immigration attorneys > self-help |
N-400 Application | Must-have to gain naturalized US citizenship |
Study for the Test | Basic reading, writing, and speaking of English, and knowledge of US History & Civics |
Interview Prep | Speak well and ensure document accuracy |
Table of Content
Step 1: Ensure Your Eligibility
You must be at least 18 years old with permanent residence for a minimum of 5 years (3 years if you’re married to a citizen.
You need to have a basic understanding of US government and history, with no trips abroad that total 6 months or longer.
You must be able to read, write, and speak basic English, however language exemptions can be made in certain cases.
For a more in-depth understanding of the criteria, go here.
Step 2: Get Legal Guidance
Absolutely DO NOT rely only on online or library resources for legal advice. You will need an attorney to guide you around application questions and green card/immigration status. There are several non-profit agencies in the US that will help you by providing free or low-cost legal services to immigrants.
The N-400 is an application for naturalization that green card holders are required to have to apply for US citizenship. Filing this form is a key step toward becoming a naturalized US citizen. It demonstrates that the applicant meets the specific requirements set by US citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You can find the details and file it online here.
Step 3: Prepare your N-400 Application
The N-400 is an application for naturalization that green card holders are required to have to apply for US citizenship. Filing this form is a key step toward becoming a naturalized US citizen. It demonstrates that the applicant meets the specific requirements set by US citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You can find the details and file it online here.
Step 4: Study for the Test
The naturalization test consists of 2 parts:
English | Civics |
Assessed by your ability to read and write basic English, and how well you converse with the USCIS officer. You must read and write 1 out of 3 sentences to pass. | Requires you to study up on the 100 US Civics questions and will ask 10 at random. The applicant must answer 6 out of the 10 to pass. |
For more information, go here.
Step 5: Interview Prep
The typical interview goes like this:
01. Small Talk The officer will first ask you a simple question like, “How did you get here today?” or “Are you nervous?”. | 02. Oath Taking You hand over your documents and are then put under oath. |
03. Document Confirmation Most of the next questions will be from your N-400 application - this is simply to confirm that your information is correct, not to test you. | 04. Tests You will then be asked the US History and Civics questions, followed by the reading and writing tests. |
Remember, it’s okay to ask the officer to repeat/explain/elaborate on a question if you need them to. And don’t forget, always have an answer prepared for the question, “Why do you want to become a US citizen?”.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does the entire citizenship process take after filing the N-400?
It typically takes 8 to 12 months, depending on USCIS workload and your location. Some applicants may experience shorter or longer wait times.
2. What should I do if my application gets rejected or delayed?
You can request a case status update through your USCIS account or contact them directly. If rejected, review the denial letter carefully and consult an immigration attorney before reapplying.
3. Can I travel outside the U.S. while my N-400 is being processed?
Yes, as long as your trips are less than 6 months and you maintain your permanent residence. Longer trips can affect your eligibility.
4. How much does it cost to file for naturalization, and are there fee waivers?
The filing fee is $760 (including biometrics). Fee waivers or reductions may be available based on income check USCIS Form I-912 for eligibility.
5. What documents should I bring to the naturalization interview?
Bring your green card, passport(s), state ID, appointment notice, and any supporting documents related to your N-400 responses (like marriage or travel records).
6. How soon after passing the interview do I take the Oath of Allegiance?
Many applicants are scheduled for the same day or within a few weeks of passing the interview, depending on USCIS office capacity.
7. Are there study resources or apps to help with the civics test?
Yes! USCIS offers official study guides, flashcards, and a mobile app with the 100 civics questions and English practice materials.
Step 1: Ensure Your Eligibility
You must be at least 18 years old with permanent residence for a minimum of 5 years (3 years if you’re married to a citizen.
You need to have a basic understanding of US government and history, with no trips abroad that total 6 months or longer.
You must be able to read, write, and speak basic English, however language exemptions can be made in certain cases.
For a more in-depth understanding of the criteria, go here.
Step 2: Get Legal Guidance
Absolutely DO NOT rely only on online or library resources for legal advice. You will need an attorney to guide you around application questions and green card/immigration status. There are several non-profit agencies in the US that will help you by providing free or low-cost legal services to immigrants.
The N-400 is an application for naturalization that green card holders are required to have to apply for US citizenship. Filing this form is a key step toward becoming a naturalized US citizen. It demonstrates that the applicant meets the specific requirements set by US citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You can find the details and file it online here.
Step 3: Prepare your N-400 Application
The N-400 is an application for naturalization that green card holders are required to have to apply for US citizenship. Filing this form is a key step toward becoming a naturalized US citizen. It demonstrates that the applicant meets the specific requirements set by US citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You can find the details and file it online here.
Step 4: Study for the Test
The naturalization test consists of 2 parts:
English | Civics |
Assessed by your ability to read and write basic English, and how well you converse with the USCIS officer. You must read and write 1 out of 3 sentences to pass. | Requires you to study up on the 100 US Civics questions and will ask 10 at random. The applicant must answer 6 out of the 10 to pass. |
For more information, go here.
Step 5: Interview Prep
The typical interview goes like this:
01. Small Talk The officer will first ask you a simple question like, “How did you get here today?” or “Are you nervous?”. | 02. Oath Taking You hand over your documents and are then put under oath. |
03. Document Confirmation Most of the next questions will be from your N-400 application - this is simply to confirm that your information is correct, not to test you. | 04. Tests You will then be asked the US History and Civics questions, followed by the reading and writing tests. |
Remember, it’s okay to ask the officer to repeat/explain/elaborate on a question if you need them to. And don’t forget, always have an answer prepared for the question, “Why do you want to become a US citizen?”.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does the entire citizenship process take after filing the N-400?
It typically takes 8 to 12 months, depending on USCIS workload and your location. Some applicants may experience shorter or longer wait times.
2. What should I do if my application gets rejected or delayed?
You can request a case status update through your USCIS account or contact them directly. If rejected, review the denial letter carefully and consult an immigration attorney before reapplying.
3. Can I travel outside the U.S. while my N-400 is being processed?
Yes, as long as your trips are less than 6 months and you maintain your permanent residence. Longer trips can affect your eligibility.
4. How much does it cost to file for naturalization, and are there fee waivers?
The filing fee is $760 (including biometrics). Fee waivers or reductions may be available based on income check USCIS Form I-912 for eligibility.
5. What documents should I bring to the naturalization interview?
Bring your green card, passport(s), state ID, appointment notice, and any supporting documents related to your N-400 responses (like marriage or travel records).
6. How soon after passing the interview do I take the Oath of Allegiance?
Many applicants are scheduled for the same day or within a few weeks of passing the interview, depending on USCIS office capacity.
7. Are there study resources or apps to help with the civics test?
Yes! USCIS offers official study guides, flashcards, and a mobile app with the 100 civics questions and English practice materials.
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