Becoming a U.S. citizen is a process that requires a significant investment of time, energy, and money. Also called naturalization, the path to U.S. citizenship requires meeting strict eligibility requirements, filling out forms, passing tests and interviews, paying legal fees, and taking a formal oath. It also comes with new rights and responsibilities. This process isn’t for everyone and if you make certain mistakes, there’s a chance you might get denied. Understanding the true cost, benefits, and risks before you start on this journey will help you make informed choices.
What is naturalization and how does it work?
Naturalization is the legal process a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) goes through to become a U.S. citizen. Citizenship isn’t automatic. Applicants need to meet certain criteria, apply through Form N-400, attend a formal interview, and take an oath of allegiance. It seems like a straightforward process on the outside, but it’s actually complex and full of pitfalls. That’s why many applicants hire an immigration attorney to help them navigate the process. It’s even more important to hire an attorney if you have a criminal record or a complicated personal history.
- Eligibility criteria. To become a U.S. citizen, you must be at least 18 years of age, have maintained residence in the U.S. for five years (three if you’re married to a citizen), show good moral character, have basic English skills, and be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance.
- Form N-400. This is the required form and it costs around $760 to file. Some people qualify for fee waivers or reductions.
- Interview and tests. Part of the process is an interview with a USCIS employee that includes an English test (reading, writing, and speaking) as well as questions about U.S. history and the government.
- Backlogs and timing. Application processing times vary by office, current volume, and case complexity. Some are processed within several months, while others have to wait a year or more.
- Application approval rates. Although denials are common, in 2024, the USCIS naturalized around 818,500 new citizens.
These are the basic steps that must be taken to obtain U.S. citizenship.
What are the benefits of becoming a U.S. citizen?
There are distinct benefits of being a citizen rather than just a permanent resident. For example, citizens can vote in federal elections, petition for relatives to get them shorter wait periods for green cards, and qualify for certain job opportunities and scholarships only afforded to U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens can leave the United States without jeopardizing their status and don’t need visas to travel to some of the countries that restrict green card holders. And children under 18 automatically become citizens once a parent naturalizes.
How hard is it to pass the tests and get approved?
A huge fear many people have is failing the tests and being denied. However, with the help of a skilled immigration lawyer, it’s not that hard. Most applicants pass the English and history tests on the first or second try. Despite the potential for denial, approval rates for naturalization are around 85%.
Many people don’t realize that there are medical and age-based exceptions for some of the English and civics requirements.
What are the rights and responsibilities of new U.S. citizens?
Every U.S. citizen has certain responsibilities. For example, you might get summoned for jury duty and you’ll be required to respond and potentially serve if you aren’t dismissed. Men between the ages of 18-25 must register for the Selective Service System (the “draft”), which is not a requirement for permanent residents.
U.S. citizens are taxed on worldwide income, which can make living abroad difficult. And while you will enjoy greater protections against deportation, you won’t be immune to legal accountability.
The trade-offs
Currently, the U.S. allows dual citizenship, but some countries don’t. By becoming a U.S. citizen, you might need to forfeit your original citizenship. However, there is a bill that aims to ban dual citizenship for U.S. citizens.
For those who obtain citizenship through the courts, it can be revoked for fraud. There’s also a chance you might struggle with cultural identity, which is an important consideration.
Is naturalization right for you?
Becoming a United States citizen is a major decision. There are big benefits like the right to vote, employment advantages, and protection from deportation. On the flip side, it will also cost you time, energy, money, and potentially higher tax payments.
However, for many, the benefits outweigh the obstacles. The approval rates are high and most eligible individuals eventually choose citizenship, but only you can know if citizenship is the right path for you.
