How Long Does It Take to Become a U. How long does it take to get an U. But that’s just the application processing wait time (see “ Understanding USCIS Processing Times ” below). The overall naturalization process involves more steps and a longer timeline. In most cases, you must meet the following requirements before you can file an application for U. You must be a lawful permanent resident (green card holder).
You only need to have been continuously present in the U. See full list on fileright. Most people will need to file Form N-40 Application for Naturalization, to start the process. You’ll also need to send in various supporting documents.
The time it takes for the USCIS to process your application depends on where you file it. Where you need to file your application depends on where you live. Check with the processing center in your jurisdiction to find. After the USCIS receives your application, it will send you a letter scheduling you for a biometrics appointment from the USCIS.
Once your criminal background check is complete the USCIS might ask you for more information.
If the USCIS does want additional information or. The purpose of the interview is for the USCIS officer to decide whether you qualify to become a U. You might be asked questions about your eligibility for U. For example, this could include questions about the relative or employer who qualified you to apply for your green card. It could also include questions about any past criminal arres.
For the English test, you will be asked to read a sentence in English aloud and to write a sentence in English. You can request an exemption from the English requirement if you are over a certain age or if you have been a green card holder for a certain amount of time. For the history test, you must answer at least six of questions correctly to pass. Once you have passed the interview and the English and history tests, you will get a letter scheduling you for your naturalization ceremony. Again, the amount of time between your interview and your naturalization ceremony will depend on your jurisdiction.
The USCIS officer will pick the questions fo. You will also exchange your green card for a Certificate of Naturalization, which is proof of your status as a U. This page provides general information about the most common path to U. LPR) or Green Card holder of at least five years. At this point, you will b. Naturalization is the way that a person not born in the United States voluntarily becomes a U. While the USCIS processing time for the naturalization form is approximately months , the complete process of applying for naturalization and becoming a U. However, there are a couple of factors that affect processing times most significantly.
Even after they reopen, you can expect long delays as the backlog is cleared. Again, most lawful permanent residents must wait a full five years before applying for U. Here are the main exceptions. Reside continuously within the United States from the date of application for naturalization until the time of naturalization.
Be physically present in the United States for at least months out of the years immediately preceding the date of filing the application. Congress has enacted laws that determine how citizenship is conveyed by a U. Take the Oath of Allegiance to become a U. Citizenship Through U. Receive your Certificate of Naturalization, review it, and notify USCIS of any errors you see on your certificate before leaving the ceremony site. The general eligibility requirements to become a U. Be at least years old at the time you file Form N-40 Application for U. Demonstrate continuous residence in the United States for at least years immediately before the date you file Form N-400. If you live in an area with heavy immigrant populations, it is not unusual to wait years or more to become a US citizen. Oath Ceremony – After passing the citizenship interview and test, you’ll need to attend the oath ceremony to officially become a U. For a more detailed look at what happens after filing the citizenship application, check out N-4processing times.
Instructor Daniel McCall simulates the swearing in process for immigrants at a citizenship class in Gaithersburg, Md. However, special provisions apply for members of the Armed Forces. Under INA Section 32 people who have served in the U. National Guard) can file for naturalization based on their current. If you remain married to and living with your U. This is an important exception: Most people must wait five years after getting a green card to apply for U. Below is a general overview of what to expect during the naturalization process.
To learn more, read the Guide to Naturalization. Also, find information on dual citizenship , how to get proof of your U. There are two general ways to obtain citizenship through U.