For most people, “naturalization” and “citizenship” are interchangeable terms, but they don’t actually mean the same thing. Citizenship is a legal status with full rights and responsibilities, while naturalization is just one pathway that allows permanent residents to achieve that status.
If you’re an immigrant trying to plan your future, understanding the difference can help you make informed decisions about your journey to US citizenship. In this Remitly guide, we’ll break down what this really means, answer common questions about naturalization, and provide practical tips to help you prepare for the application process. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap to becoming an American citizen.
What is US citizenship?
At its core, holding US citizenship means belonging fully to the country, and the status affords you various rights, responsibilities, and protections. Citizens can live, work, or study in all 50 states, for example. But to become one, you must be born here or go through the naturalization process successfully.
Key benefits of citizenship
So, why strive to become a US citizen? Visas and permanent residency might give you certain privileges, depending on the specific pathway, but citizenship provides additional protections and opportunities.
- Voting rights: Only US citizens can vote in federal elections and run for certain offices.
- Passport eligibility: Nationals can apply for a US passport, simplifying international travel.
- Protection from deportation: Citizens can’t be removed from the country or lose their status due to legal issues.
- Family sponsorship: They can also sponsor more categories of family members for Green Cards compared to permanent residents.
- Government jobs: Certain federal positions require US citizenship.
Responsibilities of citizenship
On the other hand, being an American national comes with certain responsibilities, from taxation to participating in the democratic process.
- Obeying the law: All citizens must follow local, state, and federal laws.
- Paying taxes: They’re also responsible for filing taxes annually and reporting worldwide income to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
- Jury duty: They must serve on a jury when summoned.
- Civic participation: Beyond voting, citizens are encouraged to contribute positively to their communities.
Different paths to US citizenship
America has one of the strictest immigration systems in the world today. But for qualified applicants, there’s more than one way to become a US citizen, depending on your situation.
Birthright citizenship
If you’re born in the country, you automatically become a citizen, regardless of your parents’ immigration or tax status. This right is guaranteed under the 14th Amendment of the US Constitution. American territories, including Puerto Rico, Guam, and the US Virgin Islands, adhere to the same rule.
Children born abroad to US citizen parents may also qualify, depending on whether the parent meets certain residency requirements before the child’s birth.
Citizenship through parents
When parents become naturalized, their children are sometimes eligible to gain citizenship, too. For instance, if a parent becomes a citizen while their child is under 18, has a Green Card, and lives in the US in the parent’s custody, the child may automatically become a citizen.
This pathway is less common than birthright or naturalization, but it can simplify the immigration journey for families.
Naturalization
Naturalization is the main pathway to US citizenship for most immigrants. This voluntary legal process involves applying, meeting eligibility requirements, completing tests, and eventually taking the Oath of Allegiance.
Green card holders must prove that they qualify for citizenship and are ready to embrace the responsibilities that come with it.
What is naturalization?
Naturalization is the legal process by which permanent residents—or Green Card holders—can become US citizens. Unlike birthright citizenship or acquiring citizenship through parents, naturalization is not automatic.
Eligibility requirements
In general, applicants must:
- Be a permanent resident for at least five years, or three years if married to a US citizen.
- Show continuous residence in the US during that time, with no trips lasting longer than six months.
- Prove physical presence in the US for at least half of the residency period.
- Demonstrate basic English reading, writing, and speaking skills.
- Pass a civics test on US history and government.
- Show good moral character.
Why these requirements matter
Each requirement ensures that applicants are integrated into US society and prepared to contribute positively to local communities.
While this list may sound intimidating, thousands of immigrants complete the process every year—just over 818,000 people became naturalized in 2024 alone.
The naturalization process, step by step
Naturalization is a journey that unfolds over several years. Understanding the timeline and the steps involved can help you plan ahead and avoid surprises.
Step 1: Determine your eligibility
You must have a Green Card before you can apply for citizenship via naturalization. Most Green Card holders qualify after five years. If you’re married to a US citizen, you may be eligible after just three years. Members of the military often have faster options as well.
You must also be able to prove continuous residence and physical presence. Continuous residence means living in the US without extended absences. Meanwhile, physical presence requires being in the US for at least half the residency period.
It’s important not to apply too early. Submitting before you’re eligible can lead to delays or even denial. Double-check your dates, and when in doubt, seek legal advice.
Step 2: Prepare and submit Form N-400
Form N-400 is the official Application for Naturalization. Along with the form, you’ll submit several supporting documents, including:
- Your Green Card
- Proof of identity
- Birth certificate
- Marriage license
- Tax returns
- International travel records
You’ll also pay a filing fee, which can be reduced or waived in certain circumstances. Preparing the application thoroughly is worth the effort, as missing details can create months of delays. Consider professional help if your case is complex.
Step 3: Biometrics appointment
The US Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) will send you a biometrics appointment notice within a few weeks after submitting your application. Wait times vary, but the appointment itself usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
During the appointment, USCIS will:
- Confirm your identity using your Green Card, appointment notice, and a second photo ID.
- Take fingerprints for an FBI background check.
- Capture a digital photo and signature.
Step 4: Naturalization interview and test
This is often the most nerve-wracking part of the process, but with preparation, it’s completely manageable. The interview and tests allow USCIS to confirm your eligibility and ensure you’re ready for US citizenship.
The interview
During the interview, a USCIS officer will:
- Review your N-400 application form and supporting documents.
- Ask questions to clarify information about your background, residence, employment, and travel history.
- Assess your ability to communicate in English.
This interview is not meant to intimidate; it’s an opportunity to demonstrate that you meet the requirements for US citizenship.
English test
The English test evaluates your ability to speak, read, and write in everyday English. Here’s what to expect:
- Speaking: Assessed during the interview, you’ll answer questions about your application and life in the US. Your answers show that you can communicate in everyday English.
- Reading: You’ll be asked to read one to three simple sentences aloud. Reading them correctly shows basic English literacy.
- Writing: You’ll also be asked to write one to three simple sentences correctly, usually on topics related to US civics or your personal background.
The US government offers free resources to practice English and help you prepare.
Civics test
The civics test evaluates your knowledge of US history, government, and basic civic principles. You’ll be asked up to ten questions from a set of 100 possibilities provided by USCIS. To pass, you must answer at least six correctly.
These questions cover topics such as the Constitution, branches of government, citizens’ rights and responsibilities, and key events in US history.
Some sample questions include:
- What is the name of the current President of the United States?
- What is one right or freedom from the First Amendment?
- What are two ways that Americans can participate in their democracy?
Exceptions and accommodations
Certain applicants may qualify for exceptions:
- If you’re 50 years old or older and have been a permanent resident for 20 years—or 55 and a resident for 15 years—you may take the civics test in your native language.
- Applicants with disabilities or impairments may request accommodations.
Preparation is key. Reviewing practice questions, studying US history and government, and practicing English in everyday situations will make the interview and tests feel much more manageable.
Step 5: Oath of Allegiance ceremony
Once you pass your naturalization interview and tests, the final step is the Oath of Allegiance ceremony. At this point, you’ll surrender your Green Card since you’re now an officially recognized US citizen.
During the ceremony:
- You’ll take the Oath of Allegiance, pledging loyalty to the United States and renouncing allegiance to any other country.
- You will receive your Certificate of Naturalization, which serves as official proof of your US citizenship.
- You can immediately apply for a US passport and enjoy all the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.
The ceremony is a formal but celebratory event that often includes speeches, the US National Anthem, and recognition of your achievement. Some applicants may bring family and friends to share in the occasion.
Preparing for your naturalization journey
If you’re thinking of applying, preparation is key. Starting early and staying organized can make the process smoother and less stressful.
Tips for a smooth naturalization process
- Double-check eligibility: Ensure you meet residency, physical presence, and other requirements before submitting your Form N-400.
- Stay organized: Keep all supporting documents in one place, including your Green Card, passport, and travel records.
- Prepare for biometrics: Bring your appointment notice, Green Card, and a second photo ID. Be ready for fingerprints, photos, and signature collection.
- Study English and civics: Use free online resources to review sample questions and practice reading, writing, and speaking skills.
- Respond promptly to requests: If USCIS issues a Request for Evidence (RFE), supply the required documents quickly to avoid delays.
- Plan for your interview: Review your application form, know your personal and travel history, and practice answering questions clearly and confidently.
- Stay patient: Processing times vary by location. Early preparation helps reduce stress while waiting for your interview and Oath of Allegiance ceremony.
Timelines to expect
For most applicants, the timeline from Green Card to citizenship is usually five to six years, or three to four years for spouses of US citizens.
From filing Form N-400 to citizenship, you can expect the USCIS process to take eight to 12 months, depending on local office workload.
Take your next step toward US citizenship
Becoming a US citizen is more than a legal milestone. It’s a celebration of your journey and a gateway to new opportunities for you and the generations that follow.
Remember—citizenship is the legal status, but naturalization is one of the main ways to get there.
If you’re a permanent resident already, assess your eligibility and start getting everything ready for the process. Hundreds of thousands of immigrants complete this journey each year; you can, too.
FAQs
Can you lose citizenship once obtained?
Natural-born citizens rarely, if ever, lose their citizenship. For naturalized citizens, losing citizenship rights is possible only in rare cases of fraud or serious wrongdoing during the application process.
What if you don’t pass the naturalization test?
If you don’t pass the first time, don’t panic. You usually get a second chance a few months later. Many people pass on the second attempt.
How long does the entire process take?
On average, the process takes 8–12 months after submitting your application form. However, times vary depending on where you live and how busy your local USCIS office is.
Can you maintain dual citizenship?
Yes, in many cases. The US doesn’t require you to give up citizenship from another country, but whether your home country allows dual citizenship depends on its laws. Always check with both sides to confirm.