Your Roadmap to U.S. Citizenship

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before you spend time and money on the application, ensure you meet the basics:

  • Age: You are at least 18 years old.
  • Permanent Residency: You have had your Green Card for at least 5 years (or 3 years if you are married to a U.S. citizen).
  • Physical Presence: You have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of the last 5 years.
  • Good Moral Character: You have followed the law and paid your taxes.

Gather your “Big Three” documents to start:

  1. Green Card: A photocopy of the front and back.
  2. State ID: A photocopy of your driver’s license or state identification.
  3. Passports: All current and expired passports used since becoming a resident.

This is your official application.

A few weeks after filing, you will get a notice in the mail.

  • What happens: USCIS will take your fingerprints, photograph, and signature for a background check.
    • Tip: Dress nicely! The photo they take here may be the one used on your final Citizenship Certificate.

This is the big day! A USCIS officer will:

  • Ask questions about your application and background to confirm everything is true.
  • Reading/Writing Test: Ask you to read one sentence and write one sentence in English.
  • Civics Test: Ask you up to 10 questions from the official list. You must get 6 correct to pass.

If approved, you will receive a notice for your ceremony.

  • You will turn in your Green Card.
  • You will take the Oath of Allegiance, promising to be loyal to the United States.
  • You walk out as a U.S. Citizen!

Preparation Checklist (Don't Forget!)

  • Study the 100 (or 128) Civics questions
  • Review your own N-400 form so you remember what you wrote
  • Collect your IRS tax transcripts for the last 5 years
  • Update your address with USCIS within 10 days if you move