What are the General Requirements for Naturalization?

Naturalization is the process which an immigrant goes through to become a U.S. Citizen.  There are different naturalization requirements based on specific situations, i.e., some people have to be permanent residents for 5 years and others only have to be permanent residents on the day of the interview. All people seeking to apply for naturalization must be at least 18 years old. Below is a list of requirements and what they mean.

Living Continuously in United States

Some paths require living “continuously” in the United States for a number of years.  That means that while you may have traveled outside the United States, you have not been out of the country for more than 6 months. The time you spend outside of the country does not count toward your required time in the U.S. The exception to that rule is that time military personnel spend in service outside of the United States counts as time spent in the United States.

Good Moral Character

All people seeking to become U.S. citizens must prove they have “good moral character”. The application for naturalization has many questions regarding crimes.  Criminal activity can be a factor in determining that you do not have good moral character.  For example, if you have been convicted of murder, or any other aggravated felony, you will be found to NOT have good moral character. Lying on immigration documents would also show you lack good moral character.  Simple traffic fines under $500 alone will not hurt your finding of good moral character. It is always best to be honest in your answers on applications, petitions, etc.  If you have a criminal record which may hurt your chances of becoming a U.S. citizen, it is best to consult an immigration attorney for help with the application process.

English and Civics

All people naturalizing must be able to show they can read, write, and speak basic English. This is done through a citizenship exam which everyone is required to take.  also, in the citizen test, all applicants must also demonstrate knowledge of U.S. history and government (also known as “civics”).  There are exceptions to the English requirement for applicants who are over 50 years old and have been residents of the United States for 15 or more years (depending on the type of exception).

Attachment to the Constitution

All applicants must claim “attachment to the constitution of the United States” which means they will live by, defend and support the principles stated in the constitution in order to pass the citizenship requirements. A person is not a U.S. citizen until s/he takes the Oath.  Attachment to the constitution is part of the oath.  Also as part of the oath, the applicant states s/he will renounce foreign alliances and either fight for the United States in times of war/conflict, or serve the United States in a non-combat position when called upon to do so.

There are more requirements depending on your status at the time you apply for naturalization services.  Most permanent residents will not have a problem going through the naturalization process and the rights and protections offered to U.S. citizens are well worth the effort.