Becoming a U.S. citizen is a dream for many immigrants who build their lives, careers, and families in the United States. The process that makes this possible is called naturalization. While it may seem intimidating at first, understanding each step can help you feel prepared and confident on your path to citizenship.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what naturalization means, recent updates to the process, eligibility requirements, the application steps, and the incredible benefits that come with becoming a U.S. citizen.
What Is Naturalization?
Naturalization is the legal process by which a green card holder (lawful permanent resident) becomes a U.S. citizen.
It’s important to understand the distinction:
- Citizenship is the final status, being officially recognized as a member of the United States.
- Naturalization is the process you go through to obtain that status.
Once you naturalize, you not only gain new rights and freedoms, but you also take on the important responsibilities that come with being a U.S. citizen.
Who Can Apply for Naturalization?
Eligibility depends on several factors. In most cases, you can apply if:
- You are at least 18 years old.
- You have been a green card holder for at least 5 years.
- You have lived continuously in the U.S. during that time.
- You have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 913 days (30 months) out of those 5 years.
- You have been a resident of the state where you’re applying for at least 3 months.
- You can demonstrate good moral character.
- You can pass the English and civics tests.
Important Notes on Residence & Marriage
If you are married to a U.S. citizen, you may be eligible to apply after 3 years of permanent residence instead of 5, but only if:
- You have been living in marital union with your U.S. citizen spouse for those 3 years up to the time of filing,
- And your spouse has been a U.S. citizen during that entire period.
If you’ve separated or no longer live together, you may no longer qualify under the 3-year rule and will need to wait until the 5-year mark.
Keep Track of Your Travel History
For the physical presence requirement, applicants must show they were physically present in the U.S. for at least 913 days out of the last 5 years (or 548 days out of 3 years for marriage-based cases).
To make this easier, keep a travel log that includes:
- Departure and return dates for each trip outside the U.S.
- Countries visited.
- Copies of passport stamps, airline tickets, or itineraries.
Applicants often underestimate how hard it is to recall old travel dates, having a record will make completing the N-400 much smoother and more accurate.
Benefits of Becoming a U.S. Citizen
Citizenship comes with many life-changing advantages:
- Voting Rights – You can vote in federal, state, and local elections.
- No More Green Card Renewals – No need to file immigration forms or pay renewal fees.
- Protection from Deportation – U.S. citizens cannot be deported.
- Sponsoring Family Members – Petition for parents, siblings, and adult children to immigrate.
- Government Jobs – Many federal positions are open only to citizens.
- Access to Benefits – Eligibility for Social Security, Medicare, and sometimes student aid.
- U.S. Passport – Enjoy visa-free travel to 180+ countries and consular protection abroad.
Responsibilities of U.S. Citizenship
With these rights come important responsibilities:
- Serving on jury duty if called.
- Filing U.S. income tax returns each year, even if living abroad.
- Upholding U.S. laws and continuing to demonstrate good moral character.
Important Changes to Naturalization
USCIS has announced two potential updates that could make the review process for citizenship applications more detailed, one involving good moral character evaluations and another involving neighborhood checks.
Good Moral Character
In 2025, USCIS announced that officers will take a broader approach when reviewing an applicant’s good moral character. They may now weigh both positive and negative factors for example, your community involvement, tax compliance, or volunteer work, alongside any past infractions or concerns.
However, as of the time of publication, these updates have not yet been widely observed in practice. USCIS has not formally implemented new procedures at field offices, so we may not see noticeable changes until cases begin reflecting these updates.
For now, applicants should continue following the traditional Good Moral Character standards (explained below) while being mindful of possible new expectations.
Understanding Good Moral Character
What It Means
“Good moral character” refers to behaving in a way that meets the standards of honesty, respect for law, and responsibility expected of an average U.S. citizen. USCIS reviews this on a case-by-case basis.
You must demonstrate Good Moral Character for:
- The 5 years before filing your N-400 (standard rule), or
- The 3 years before filing if applying through marriage to a U.S. citizen.
This requirement continues until the day you take the Oath of Allegiance.
Conduct Before the Statutory Period
Although USCIS focuses on the past 3 or 5 years, older conduct can still be considered if it reflects ongoing patterns of bad behavior or if there’s no evidence of rehabilitation.
Acts That May Affect Good Moral Character
Some actions automatically prevent approval, such as conviction of murder or an aggravated felony.
Other acts may temporarily affect your eligibility, such as:
- Multiple criminal convictions
- Fraud or misrepresentation
- Failure to pay taxes or child support
- Alcohol or drug-related offenses
- False testimony during immigration processes
Even if these acts occurred outside the 3- or 5-year period, USCIS may still review them when assessing your overall character.
Rehabilitation and Positive Evidence
Applicants can demonstrate rehabilitation by showing:
- Evidence of stable employment
- Tax compliance and clean financial record
- Community service or volunteer work
- Letters of recommendation from community members, religious leaders, or employers
- Participation in local organizations or consistent civic involvement
The newer USCIS guidance also encourages officers to weigh these positive contributions along with any negative factors.
Neighborhood Checks
USCIS also announced plans to reinstate neighborhood and workplace checks, meaning officers could reach out to neighbors, coworkers, or employers to verify an applicant’s character or residence.
This is not yet standard practice. As of now, applicants have not reported consistent implementation of these checks. Still, it’s a good idea to gather testimonial letters from people in your community who can speak to your honesty, reliability, and positive contributions, just in case this becomes more common.
Step-by-Step: The Naturalization Process
While every applicant’s journey may look slightly different, the process generally follows these steps:
Step 1: File Your Application (Form N-400)
Submit your Application for Naturalization either online or by mail. This form collects details about your background, immigration history, and eligibility.
Step 2: Biometrics Appointment
You’ll attend a fingerprinting appointment at your local USCIS Application Support Center. Your fingerprints will be used for background and security checks.
Step 3: Citizenship Interview & Test
During this interview, a USCIS officer will:
- Review your N-400 answers.
- Test your English reading, writing, and speaking skills.
- Administer the civics test on U.S. history and government.
USCIS provides study materials and practice questions, so preparation is key.
Step 4: Oath of Allegiance
If approved, you’ll attend a Naturalization Ceremony where you take the Oath of Allegiance, surrender your green card, and receive your Certificate of Naturalization, officially becoming a U.S. citizen.
Final Thoughts
Naturalization is more than just paperwork, it’s the beginning of a new chapter as a full member of the American community. The process takes patience, preparation, and honesty, but the reward is one of the greatest milestones in an immigrant’s journey.
From voting in your first U.S. election to traveling with your American passport, citizenship opens the door to opportunities and security that last a lifetime.
If you’re ready to take this final step, start by confirming your eligibility and gathering your records. And remember, with the right guidance, preparation, and legal support, you can confidently complete your journey and proudly call yourself a U.S. citizen.
