Are you searching for details regarding Naturalization? Do you know what the application process is and what the requirements are for Naturalization? If not, then worry no more. This article will make things easier for you. Here we will discuss everything you need to know about Naturalization and help you explore naturalization information. So, stay connected with us until the end, as this article will make the naturalization process much easier and comfortable for you.
Let’s start the discussion by finding out what Naturalization is?
What is Naturalization?
The process in which an individual born outside the United States becomes a U.S. citizen is named Naturalization. A person possessing a green card is eligible for the naturalization process on the condition that he has lived in the U.S. for five years if unmarried or for three years if married.
The naturalization process comes up with a lawful permanent resident meeting all the Congress requirements in the Immigration and Nationality Act.
Legal Requirements for a Naturalized Citizenship
If someone ones to become a U.S. citizen through Naturalization, he must fulfill the following requirements.
The applicant:
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must have been a lawful permanent for a minimum of three to five years (depending on naturalization category)
- Should be physically present and residing in the U.S.
- Should be good at basic reading, speaking, writing, and listening to English
- Possess a good moral character
- Must have a good understanding of the U.S. history and government
- Must show loyalty to the U.S. constitution principles
- Should take an oath of Allegiance
Applying at the right time following the proper guidelines set by the USCIS is essential for initiating the nebulization process.
Application Process
Following are the details regarding filling the naturalization application process.
Online Filling
- Create your USCIS account
- Provide evidence and pay the application processing fee
- Get an update regarding their case status.
- Submit additional evidence and demanded documents
Paper Filling
- Carefully read, fill and sign the N-400 application form.
- Pay the fee
- Attach all the supporting documents as demanded in the application process
- Create your online USCIS account and track the case status
Documents Required
Following is a list of documents required to fill the naturalization process.
- Photocopy of your permanent resident card (Green card)
- Application fee
- Two passport-sized photographs (It is recommended to write your Alien Registration Number with a light pencil)
Application Fee
The naturalization citizenship application processing fee is $640. Along with this, you have to pay a biometric fee of $85. However, there are a few exceptions to this fee, which are:
- Applicants aged 75 or above do not have to pay any biometric fee
- The application processing is free for under section 328 and 329
Application Processing
The following is complete detail on how naturalization application is processed.
- First of all, check either you are a U.S. citizen or not. Proceed with the application only if you are not a U.S. citizen by birth or did not acquire U.S. citizenship by birth from your parents.
- Check your eligibility to become a U.S. citizen before starting your application processing.
- Create your account and prepare your N-400 form. Gather all necessary and required documents. You can create a proper checklist of required documents so that you don’t miss anything.
- Arrange two passport-sized photos if you are currently residing in the United States
- Once done with these things, now it’s time to submit your N-400 form and pay the fee. You can either submit your paper online or as a hard copy. You can also pay your fee online.
- Once you submit your N-400 form, you will receive a mail from USCIS containing a receipt note. You can track your case status and processing time with the online serial number that is a writer on the receipt.
- USCIS will send you an appointment notice that will include your biometrics appointment date, time, and location. You will have to reach the designated location at the scheduled time to get your biometrics done.
- Next, you will have to attend a naturalization interview. USCIS will schedule your interview. You will have to reach the designated location at the specified time.
Once you pass the interview, you will be advised to follow the further processing as per USCIS instructions. After giving the interview, wait for the USCIS instructions till further notice.
