Guide to U.S. Immigration

26. Naturalization - U.S. Citizenship

Permanent residents may become naturalized U.S. citizens after meeting certain requirements. Permanent residents are not required to apply for U.S. citizenship, but may remain permanent residents indefinitely.

The basic requirements are:

1. Lawful permanent residence status. The alien must be a lawful permanent resident.

2. Continuous residence. The alien must have continuous residence in the U.S. for at least five years before filing for naturalization. Continuous residence does not mean actual physical presence and brief absenses may be allowed, however, a thorough discussion of this issue is beyond the scope of this guide.

The continuous residence requirement for spouses of U.S. citizens is three years.

3. Residence in state. The alien must have resided at least 3 months in the state in which the application for naturalization is filed.

4. Physical Presence. The alien must have been physically present in the U.S. for an aggregate total of one half of the period required for continuous residence, 2 1/2 years for most aliens and 1 1/2 years for spouses of U.S. citizens.

5. English. The alien must be able to read, write, and speak ordinary English.

6. U.S. Government and History. The alien must have a basic knowledge of U.S. history and government.

7. Good Moral Character. The alien must show good moral character. Generally a person who is involved in criminal activity does not possess good moral character.

8. Continuous Residence. The alien must have lived continuously in the U.S. from the date of applying for naturalization until actual admission as a U.S. citizen.

9. Eighteen years old. the alien must be 18 years old or older at the time of filing for naturalization.

If the alien meets the above requirements, then the alien may apply for citizenship.