U.S. citizenship has several benefits, such as the right to vote, request for family members to apply for citizenship, and live in another country without losing the right to return.

If you are not American by birth, you need to apply to become a U.S citizen. One must first acquire U.S. citizenship through a process called naturalization. Before applying, you must have a green card (i.e., lawful permanent residence) and meet certain eligibility criteria, as listed below.

Common Requirements for Becoming a U.S Citizen

If you would like to apply for U.S. citizenship, first consider this:

• You are a permanent resident for at least five years (except for spouses of U.S. citizens and U.S. military personnel).
• You must have been in the U.S. during the whole five years before your application and during which you have spent no more than six continuous months outside the U.S.
• You are applying to reside in a district or state where you have lived for at least three months.
• Your moral character is quite good.
• You are prepared to pledge loyalty to the principles of the United States and its constitution.

Required Test to Pass for Becoming a U.S Citizen

You need to pass two tests after submitting your application:

• You can fluently speak, read, and write in English.
• You pass a test on topics that will cover American history and government.

The Procedure of Application for U.S. Citizenship

To apply, you need to complete an immigration form and send it with a copy of your current green card, the necessary photographs, and the required fee. After submitting your application, you might have to wait a few months to respond from the USCIS office. First, you will be required to go for a biometrics (fingerprint) appointment, and later you will be placed for an interview.

When you go to the interview, a USCIS officer will evaluate your ability to speak English and your knowledge of the government and U.S history.