What are the requirements for naturalization?

In order to be considered a naturalized citizen of the United States, there are a number of eligibility requirements that you must meet.  If it has always been your dream to become a naturalized citizen then it is strongly advised that you see if you meet the eligibility requirements.

Requirements for Naturalization

• The first requirement is that you should be at least 18 years old or older and complete Form N-400 (the Application of Naturalization).  If you have any children then you would complete a form N-600 (Application for Certificate of Citizenship) for them.  If you have children, then they will become naturalized citizens automatically, when their parents become citizens.
• The next requirement is that you have lived in the United States as a lawful permanent resident for approximately four years and nine months.  If you are married to a U.S. citizen you will qualify for naturalization if you have been married to a U.S. citizen for an estimated two years and nine months.
• Additionally, you can become eligible for naturalization if you have continuously lived as a permanent resident in the United States for five years without any break in your residency.  Another qualifier is if you having been living in your home state for at least three months.
• One of the major requirements for naturalization is that the individual seeking naturalization would need to have been of good moral character.  This just basically means that you can not have committed an felonies or crimes of moral turpitude. No aggravated assaults, rapes, murders, etc.  If you have been convicted of a crime, then you will automatically be barred from naturalization.
• It is mandated that if you are seeking naturalization in the United States that you must be able to speak, read, write and understand English if you are under age 50.  Additionally, you should be able to show that you have strong knowledge and understanding of United States history and government.

Applying for Naturalization

Once you have a strong hold on the above-mentioned items then you will be eligible to apply for naturalization.  If you are unsure about your eligibility, then you should contact an immigration attorney for a consultation.  An immigration attorney will be able to better discern whether or not you are suited (based on the above-mentioned requirements) for naturalization.  Additionally, an immigration attorney can help you put a strategy in place on what will be the best route for you to take on your quest for citizenship.  He or she specializes in immigration law, so he or she would be a good candidate to ask advice from.