US Citizenship 2025

Submit Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, to apply for United States citizenship. This form can be submitted online. Those who qualify are eligible for exceptions and changes to the naturalization requirements. USCIS also provides accommodations for disabled individuals.

If you are a citizen of more than one country, you have dual citizenship. To obtain dual citizenship, you must first immigrate to the United States. Before being eligible for U.S. citizenship, you must become a permanent U.S. resident. Learn about the U.S. immigration process and how to become a permanent resident.

Naturalization is the procedure that most people use to become citizens of the United States.

To be eligible, a candidate must meet the following requirements: 

•  Be at least 18 years old at the time of application; 
  
•  Have been a lawful permanent resident for the previous three or five years (depending on which category of naturalization you are applying under); 
  
•  Have continuous residence and physical presence in the United States; 
  
•  Be able to read, write, and speak basic English; 
  
•  Display good moral character; To be eligible, a candidate must meet the following requirements: 

Individuals must freely and intentionally renounce your U.S. citizenship in order to do so: show up in person at a U.S. consular or diplomatic office abroad (often at an embassy or consulate); oath of renunciation must be taken

Naturalization (citizenship) processes typically take 8 to 13 months (Boundless updates this information monthly based on our analysis of government data). Before becoming citizens during this time while the government processes the Application for Naturalization, candidates must go through several steps.

Puerto Rican citizenship does not exist apart from United States citizenship because Puerto Rico is not a sovereign nation in its own right. From 1899 to 1952, legislative measures designated the majority of Puerto Rican residents and natives as U.S. citizens.

Only 49% of all nations permit dual citizenship, and in some of those, it is only permitted under specific circumstances. Argentina, for instance, only has dual citizenship accords with Italy and Spain. Foreign nationals must surrender their original passports to seek Argentine citizenship.

Dual citizenship has historically been favored in some nations. Most importantly, US citizens are not prohibited from holding multiple citizenships unless doing so poses a serious risk to the nation.

A citizenship application for the United States currently has a $725 naturalization fee. This sum comprises $640 for processing applications and $85 for biometric services, both of which are nonrefundable whether or not an application is accepted by the U.S. government.

There are a few significant exceptions to the general rule that applicants for naturalized U.S. citizenship must wait five years after receiving their green card.

If any of the following occur, you risk losing your citizenship: Run for public office abroad (under certain conditions) enroll in military service overseas (under certain conditions) Apply for citizenship in another nation with the goal of renunciating your American citizenship.

The State Department imposes a flat price of $2,350 for renunciation of US citizenship. Depending on your financial situation, you may be required to pay additional taxes upon renunciation of citizenship.

If there are no other legal obstacles in your way, you are free to travel anywhere, including your own country. But if a journey lasts more than 180 days, USCIS can conclude that you haven’t lived here consistently and are ineligible for naturalization.

Individuals must present either their most current passport, an original U.S. birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (FS-240), a naturalization certificate, or a certificate of citizenship as evidence of U.S. citizenship. Additionally, you must have photo identification.

Citizenship is a special tie that unites individuals around civic principles and confidence in the rights and liberties provided by the U.S. Constitution. One of the most crucial decisions an immigrant may make is to become a U.S. citizen. There may be a variety of ways to get citizenship, depending on your position.

Generally, dual citizenship in Germany and the United States is permissible for those born in either nation. However, dual citizenship between Germany and the United States is not attainable for naturalized citizens absent special conditions.

The United States, Mexico, and Honduras all permit triple citizenship by birthright, therefore this individual would technically be eligible for citizenship in all three countries. Naturalization is another way a person could get citizenship in two or more countries.

By signing up to vote and participating in the political process, citizens have a duty to do so. Another responsibility of citizenship is jury duty.

Important aspects of American history and governance are covered in the civics exam. The naturalization test consists of 100 questions on civics. Up to 10 questions from a list of 100 will be asked of you during the naturalization interview. To pass the civics test, you must properly respond to six out of ten questions.

A multiple choice examination is NOT the actual civics exam.

Citizenship in the United States by investment does not exist. However, those who use the EB-5 foreign investor visa path can naturalize after receiving a green card. In the USA, dual citizenship is accepted.

Musk relocated to Silicon Valley, obtained legal clearance to work in the United States (he has mentioned obtaining an H-1B visa), and quickly co-founded Zip2, which assisted businesses in establishing an Internet presence, with his brother. (In 2002, Musk became an American citizen.)

The United States and Canada both permit dual citizenship.

To complete the naturalization process and become a U.S. citizen typically takes between 18 and 24 months. There are five basic steps in the naturalization procedure. It begins with the filing of Form N-400 and concludes with the taking of the Oath of Allegiance.

A naturalization candidate’s knowledge of the U.S. government, history, and geography is evaluated in the U.S. citizenship exam. During the U.S. citizenship interview, the exam is administered verbally. The citizenship exam consists of 100 questions.

If your eligibility for naturalization is based on being one of the following, you may submit Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, 90 calendar days before you fulfill your continuous residency requirement. a minimum of five years as a permanent resident; or. if you have been married to a US citizen for at least three years, a permanent resident

Becoming a US citizen is a long and difficult process that takes dedication and knowledge. Naturalization citizenship s exam tests English proexams are crucial. Thificiency and U.S. civics. Many wonder if they can take this exam in Spanish and what the conditions are. This post discusses the Spanish Naturalization Citizenship Exam’s requirements and benefits for people seeking US citizenship. We’ll also explore other naturalization requirements like permanent residency, morality, and English proficiency. This information helps people choose a citizenship application.

Puerto Rico is not a sovereign nation, hence its citizenship is tied to US citizenship. Most Puerto Ricans were US citizens from 1899 to 1952.

The spouse must have lived in marital union with his or her citizen spouse for at least those three years and have continuously resided in the United States after becoming a lawful permanent resident (LPR) for at least three years immediately before the date the naturalization application was filed.

To request a replacement for a lost citizenship certificate, the citizen must submit USCIS Form N-565, Application for replacement of naturalization/citizenship document. There are two ways to submit this form to USCIS: Send it via mail or submit it online using MyUSCIS.

A person who has renounced their U.S. citizenship must also apply for a visa just like other foreigners must in order to enter the country. A renunciant might be expelled from the United States if they are discovered to be ineligible for a visa.

In essence, Japan’s nationality legislation permits only one nationality and forbids multiple citizenship.

The U.S. Citizenship Test’s questions are intentionally challenging to gauge your level of familiarity with the country. To achieve the highest possible score on the test, it is crucial to learn American history, geography, government, and civics.

Citizenship protects you and your children against deportation. As a lawful permanent resident, certain criminal convictions could make you deportable, and some behaviors put LPRs at risk for permanent consequences such as deportation.

Both renunciation and loss of citizenship are extremely rare occurrences. Both actions result in the loss of citizenship privileges and duties. Must become a citizen of another country or run the risk of becoming “stateless.”

The Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services (BCIS) oversees a variety of naturalization procedures for aliens. Individuals who possess an immigrant visa typically achieve legal permanent resident status by remaining in the nation for five years.

Only permission to dwell in the US is granted by a green card.

According to the Indian Constitution, you cannot simultaneously possess Indian and foreign citizenship.

The difficulty of obtaining a green card and becoming a permanent resident is a major factor in determining your prospects of becoming a citizen of the United States. If you have a high level of education and can find employment, you can anticipate getting citizenship in slightly over 5 years after obtaining a green card.

The “five-year rule” allows all green card holders who meet certain requirements to apply for citizenship after five years; however, the “three-year rule” applies exclusively to individuals who have married a U.S. citizen and obtained a green card.

The most crucial steps are to search and download study materials, use every opportunity to prepare, take practice exams, split your study by subject, speak English, seek aid from academies and companies, and meet with other test takers. The USCIS website offers preparation for the Civics test, English, and the Oath of Allegiance. Numerous academies and firms offer Citizenship Test preparation. Read, watch, and listen to media, follow the news, and don’t overestimate your competence. These tips will boost your English and test scores.

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Being a citizen of both the US and another country is called dual citizenship.

Citizens of the US and their home state are all born or naturalized in the US.

Parents can give their children U.S. citizenship after birth and before 18.

Civics tests follow (the history and government exams). After 20–30 minutes, the officer may grant citizenship.

Adult citizenship costs USD 165. During your Embassy or Consular Agency appointment, pay this non-refundable cost.

Permanent residents are not citizens of the United States, but they can live and work in the country and enjoy most of the same benefits as citizens.

• Accordion Conten7 N-400 Naturalization Application Documents.
  
•  Green Card (Permanent Resident) Status.
  
•  Your Application Fee Payment or Fee Reduction/Waiver Application.
  
•  Proof of Your Identity.
  
•  Military ID.

Wilson signed the Jones-Shafroth Act on March 2, 1917. Puerto Ricans became Americans via this law.

Due to the provisions of section 349(a)(5) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, Americans cannot legally renounce their citizenship via mail, through an agent, or while present in the country. Renunciations that do not adhere to the aforementioned requirements are not recognized by the law.

In addition, based on the date of their initial entry into the United States, a large number of Liberians will be immediately qualified to petition for citizenship after receiving their green cards. The Institute helps community members apply for citizenship in addition to supporting you with your green card.

A passport is proof of citizenship and a travel document if you need to leave the country. Visit the U.S. Department of State website at www.state.gov for details on how to apply for a U.S. passport.

Even while Australia now accepts dual citizenship, several other nations still forbid their citizens from having a second foreign citizenship. The idea that a state grants citizenship to its citizens is a long-standing one in the field of citizenship law.

However, dual citizenship may or may not be permitted in your nation of origin. Your status as a naturalized citizen of the United States won’t be recognized in other nations. For instance, dual citizenship is permitted in Canada and Italy but is banned in China.

British/Scottish national Gordon Ramsay resides in Great Britain.

Dual citizenship in Italy is permissible if you can provide evidence of legitimate Italian origin. Since 1992, Italy has accepted dual citizenship with the United States, thus you will not be required to relinquish your original citizenship throughout the application procedure.

Since achieving stardom, the 24-year-old artist has held a Permanent Resident (Green) Card and resides in Los Angeles. In the United States, he also met his fiancée, Hailey Baldwin. To obtain US citizenship, applicants must be at least 18 years old and in possession of a Green Card for at least five years.

Dual nationhood individuals who obtain another citizenship at the moment of their birth (for example, a child born to Dutch parents in the United States would hold both US and Dutch citizenship). Those who acquire Dutch citizenship via the options process (including former Dutch citizens resuming citizenship)

Rihanna currently identifies as a Barbadian since she lacks citizenship in the United States. Her musical talent and billion-dollar fortune have helped her become a big success in the US, but it hasn’t stopped her from speaking out against some of the nation’s contentious problems.

Spain typically does not allow dual citizenship with any nation other than Iberian nations. You must give up your native citizenship to become a citizen of Spain.

To reflect inflation, the normal minimum investment amount has been raised from $1 million to $1.8 million. To reflect inflation, the minimum investment in a TEA has been raised to $900,000 (from $500,000).

A good guideline is “business casual”. Avoid donning t-shirts, shorts, and jeans. For women, a decent collar shirt or blouse will do. Of course, if a suit and tie is what you feel most comfortable in, feel free to do so.

The date of issuance is stamped or written directly after the location of issuance on certificates issued more recently. This date will be your oath ceremony, not the date your citizenship application was granted or the date of your citizenship interview.

DACA does not provide a path to permanent legal status or citizenship. However, DACA recipients who meet the entry requirement may apply for a green card. They may be eligible for employment-based, family-based, and humanitarian green cards in this instance.

Dual citizenship is permitted in both the UK and the US, allowing Americans who want to apply for British citizenship to keep both citizenships. To apply for American and British dual nationality, all you have to do is submit an application to become a citizen of the UK.

Steps to take:

•  Fill out the questionnaire on the Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony Form N-445.
  
•  Check in with USCIS before your naturalization ceremony and report there.
  
•  Present your card for permanent residence (Green Card).
  
•  Become a citizen of the United States by swearing allegiance.

Duplicating your Form N-400 before mailing it to USCIS, as well as reviewing your responses before your interview, is the best approach to getting ready. You will also take the citizenship exam on the same day, so keep that in mind.

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program does not provide a path for Dreamers to become U.S. citizens or even legal permanent residents.

All citizenship applicants (unless excluded or applying based on military service) must complete the following requirements:

•  Be the minimum age (typically, at least 18)
  
•  Physically reside in the US as a green card holder for a particular number of years.
  
•  Live in the state or USCIS district where they want to apply 
  
•  Live in the state or USCIS district where they want to apply 
  
•  Know U.S. history and government and speak and write English.
  
•  Register for military service if male and ready to serve civilly.
  
•  Pledge allegiance to America

The USCIS reschedules the applicant to appear for a second examination between 60 and 90 days after the initial examination if the applicant fails any portion of the English test, the civics test, or all tests during the initial naturalization examination.

Typically, 3 to 6 weeks after your citizenship interview, you should receive your notice via mail. The oath ceremony should then be planned within the following few weeks.

If your eligibility for naturalization is predicated on being one of the following, you may submit Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, 90 calendar days prior to meeting your criteria for continuous residence: 5 years or more as a permanent resident; or. If you’ve been married to a US citizen for at least three years, you can become a permanent resident.

An individual must fulfill certain requirements in order to be eligible for US citizenship. They must have held a green card (legal permanent residence) for at least five years (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen). They have to be of excellent moral character, have lived continuously in the United States, and have been physically present for a portion of the residency period. They must pass a civics exam, possess a foundational understanding of English, the U.S. government, and history, and take the Oath of Allegiance. Depending on the circumstances, there may be additional requirements. For accurate and up-to-date information, it is advised to speak with an immigration lawyer or visit the USCIS website.

A criminal has the option to give up their American citizenship. However, giving up citizenship is a significant choice that needs to be carefully thought through. It’s crucial to understand that giving up citizenship does not release someone from their obligations or criminal convictions. A person may still be exposed to the legal repercussions of their felonies even after giving up their citizenship to the United States. For specific guidance on renunciating U.S. citizenship and its effects for people with a criminal record, it is advised to speak with an immigration lawyer or legal specialist.

Under specific conditions, a minor may petition for citizenship in the United States. Depending on the circumstances, a minor’s citizenship application procedure and requirements may change.

Dual citizenship will be yours. A Mexican passport can be obtained. You can go to places forbidden by the United States (like Cuba). To enter Mexico, you will not be required to pay any fees.

When entering and leaving the Philippines, those who desire to declare their dual citizenship are encouraged to submit both their valid Philippine passport and/or Identification Certificate and their foreign passport.

A citizen of the United States who is at least 21 years old may also file a petition for the relatives listed below: Brothers and sisters; parents. You must provide supporting documentation with your petition that demonstrates your bond with the petitioner.

Ireland permits dual citizenship, therefore you can get Irish citizenship while maintaining your citizenship in another nation.

Due to the dual citizenship laws in Portugal and the US, you are permitted to keep both your Portuguese and American passports.

To acquire Spanish citizenship, an American citizen would have to formally resign their American citizenship. However, many people ignore this prohibition and get dual citizenship regardless due to differences in the Spanish citizenship procedure and a lack of data sharing between the two nations.

An American citizen’s widow is eligible to apply for a green card and even to become a citizen. When one spouse passes away before the other spouse may petition for permanent residency, U.S. immigration law takes this into account (green card).

Five years following the date of their admission to lawful permanent residence, refugees and asylees are eligible to petition for citizenship. Asylees are granted legal permanent residence status beginning on the day that is one year before their Form I-485 is approved.