Ready to become a U.S. citizen? By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear map of eligibility rules, special pathways you might not have known about, and tips to avoid common pitfalls.
Core Naturalization Criteria
At the heart of any citizenship application are a handful of requirements that almost everyone must meet.
Age and Green Card Status
You must be at least 18 years old and hold a Green Card (lawful permanent resident status) — the document that proves your eligibility to start the naturalization process.
Continuous Residence & Physical Presence
- Continuous residence: You generally need to live in the U.S. for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
- Physical presence: You must spend at least half of that time physically in the country—so, 30 months out of 5 years.
English, Civics & Moral Character
- English test: Demonstrate basic reading, writing and speaking skills.
- Civics test: Pass a 10-question government and history quiz.
- Good moral character: No serious crimes, timely tax filings, and honest answers on your form.
Special Paths & Unique Situations
There are several routes that go beyond the standard track.
Derivative Citizenship for Children
If you naturalize while your child is under 18 and they hold a Green Card, they automatically become a U.S. citizen under INA § 320, which outlines the requirements for automatic citizenship.
Expedited Paths for Extraordinary Talent
Scientists working on national priorities, Olympic athletes, and top-tier artists sometimes qualify for a faster review under the “extraordinary ability” category of immigration law, commonly known as EB-1, or through a national interest waiver.
Military Members & Veterans
Active-duty personnel (and many veterans) can naturalize without meeting the usual residency or physical presence tests through military naturalization programs set up to honor those who serve.
Beyond the Basics: Additional Factors
These often-overlooked details can make or break your application.
Dual Citizenship & Tax Compliance
- The U.S. allows you to keep other nationalities—there’s no legal requirement to renounce them, as confirmed by the U.S. Department of State on dual nationality.
- Keep up with tax returns: failing to file U.S. taxes can signal a lack of “good moral character,” according to the IRS guidance on expatriation and tax compliance.
Impact of Extended Travel
Trips over six months can interrupt your “continuous residence.” A single absence of more than a year almost always does.
Elderly & Disability Exemptions
Applicants over 50 with 20 years of permanent residency (or over 55 with 15 years) get special civics and English exemptions, as outlined in the American Bar Association’s overview of naturalization exceptions.
Medical disability waivers are also available if you can’t meet testing requirements.
Criminal Records from Other Countries
Any felony or repeated minor offenses—domestic or abroad—can trigger a denial. Each case is weighed individually.
Citizenship for Adopted Children
Under INA § 320, a child adopted abroad by a U.S. citizen parent may automatically acquire citizenship if certain home-study and custody conditions are met.
Citizenship by Acquisition vs. Naturalization
Not all citizens “choose” citizenship.
– Acquisition: Children born in the U.S., or abroad to U.S. parents, are citizens at birth.
– Naturalization: The process we’ve described above, for adults and long-term residents.
Historical Shifts in Citizenship Law
Over the last century, rules have gradually opened:
1. 1920s–1950s: Native-born rights were clear, but naturalization was largely closed to Asians and others.
2. 1965 Immigration Act: Removed race-based quotas.
3. 1986 & 1990s reforms: Added special naturalization paths for spouses and military, as detailed by the American Immigration Council.
The Oath Ceremony: More Than a Pledge
Swearing allegiance isn’t just a formality—it’s a public declaration of shared values. Many ceremonies include flag-raising, patriotic songs, and family participation.
“The oath ceremony cements the bond between the individual and the nation.” – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
Stats & Pitfalls: What Applicants Should Know
- In FY 2021, USCIS naturalized over 742,000 people out of nearly 970,000 applications—about a 77% approval rate, according to the DHS Yearbook of Immigration Statistics.
- Most denials stem from incomplete forms, missing fees, or failure to show up for biometrics or interviews.
Your Final Steps
Ready to press “Submit”? Here’s a quick checklist before you click:
1. Double-check your N-400 form for typos.
2. Ensure you’ve paid the correct fee ($640 + $85 biometrics).
3. Gather ID, tax returns, and marriage certificates if applicable.
4. Practice your English and civics questions—there are free flashcards online.
Welcome Home!
You’ve seen the standard criteria, uncovered special pathways, and learned how to sidestep common snags. The next step is yours—good luck on your journey to U.S. citizenship!