United States citizenship is a great privilege that can be obtained in two ways:
- By birth: If you are born in the United States, you are a United States citizen.
- Through the naturalization process: If you live in the United States, you are considered a “foreign national” and can seek citizenship.
Requirements for Naturalization
There are four basic requirements to obtain citizenship. You must be:
- A green card holder. How can I get a Green Card?
- 18 years of age or older.
- A permanent resident of the United States for five continuous years. If you are married to a U.S. citizen, the residency requirement is only three years.
- Of good moral character during the statutory period of five years (or three, if married to a U.S. citizen).
- Able to pass tests about U.S. civics and the English language.
Qualifications for Good Moral Character
Almost every time you apply for an immigration benefit, the government will consider your moral character. In some cases, you must show you have good moral character explicitly during the application process. The requirements for good moral character are specified by statute.
What Does “Good Moral Character” Mean?
The United States has certain expectations of members of its society. A person of good moral character has maintained these expectations and will maintain them in the future. The standards vary based on the community in which the applicant resides. Generally, if you are honest and respectable, and if you follow the laws of your community, you are considered to have good moral character.
I committed a crime. Can I still be considered to have good moral character?
If you’ve committed a crime, you may still have the opportunity to achieve good moral standing. Discuss your case and unique situation with an immigration attorney to determine your “good moral character” status.
The U.S. Civics & English Language Tests
Part of the naturalization process is an interview with a USCIS officer, who will determine if you are eligible to become a U.S. citizen. During the eligibility interview, you will be tested on the English language and your understanding of the U.S. government. You must pass both sections before you can become a U.S. citizen. The testing portion of the naturalization process can be intimidating. However, if you prepare and work with an attorney to accommodate your needs, you can find success.
The U.S. Civics Test
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) has a list of 100 questions about U.S. history and government. During the test, an immigration officer will ask no more than 10 questions off this list. You must answer six of these questions correctly to pass the test.
For almost all applicants, the U.S. Civics test is given in English. However, some applicants can take the language test in the language of their choice based on their age and time as a permanent resident of the United States. The USCIS has a full list of exceptions and accommodations for these applicants.
The English Language Test
Along with the U.S. Civics test, you will be tested on your ability to read, write, and speak English. The USCIS officer will provide you with three sentences, and you must read and write one of these sentences correctly.
Just like with the U.S. Civics test, you may not have to take the English language test based on your age and time spent as a permanent resident of the United States. Contact an attorney if you believe you may be exempt.