What is on the civics test?

The civics test draws from a published list of questions on U.S. history and government. During the interview, the officer asks a set number of questions, and you must answer a required portion correctly. We provide study guidance to prepare you.

Do I have to take the English test?

Most applicants must demonstrate basic English reading, writing, and speaking. Long-term residents who are older may qualify for an exemption or to test in their native language, and applicants with qualifying medical conditions may seek a disability waiver using Form N-648.

Can travel abroad affect my application?

Yes. Long absences can break continuous residence, and a single trip of six months or more can raise a presumption that continuity was disrupted. We review your travel history before filing to identify and address any concerns.

What if I have a criminal record?

Certain offenses bar naturalization or affect good moral character, and some can even put your permanent residence at risk. It is critical to disclose any arrests or citations and have them analyzed before filing. We screen for these issues at the outset.

Will my children become citizens too?

Children under 18 who are lawful permanent residents and are in the legal and physical custody of a parent who naturalizes generally acquire U.S. citizenship automatically under the Child Citizenship Act, without filing a separate N-400.

N-400 Naturalization

What Is N-400 Naturalization?

Naturalization is the process by which a lawful permanent resident (green-card holder) becomes a United States citizen. The application is filed on Form N-400, and the process culminates in an interview, English and civics tests, and the Oath of Allegiance.

U.S. citizenship brings the right to vote, a U.S. passport, protection from deportation, eligibility for certain federal jobs and benefits, and the ability to petition for a broader range of family members. For most applicants, naturalization is the final step in a long immigration journey.

Key Benefits of U.S. Citizenship

The right to vote in federal, state, and local elections.
A U.S. passport and the ability to travel without status concerns.
Protection from deportation and removal proceedings.
Ability to petition for parents, siblings, and married children.
Eligibility for federal jobs, grants, and certain benefits.
Automatic citizenship for certain children under 18.

Who Qualifies for Naturalization?

Most applicants qualify after five years as a lawful permanent resident. Those married to and living with a U.S. citizen for the entire period generally qualify after three years. Certain members of the U.S. armed forces may qualify under expedited rules.

Beyond the residence period, applicants must show continuous residence and physical presence, good moral character, the ability to read, write, and speak basic English, and knowledge of U.S. history and government (civics). Some applicants qualify for English or testing accommodations based on age or medical conditions.

Naturalization Eligibility Requirements

The core requirements for the standard N-400 are as follows.

Permanent Resident Status & Age
You must be at least 18 and a lawful permanent resident for the required period — generally five years, or three years if married to a U.S. citizen.
Continuous Residence
You must have continuously resided in the U.S. for the required period, without trips abroad long enough to break continuity.
Physical Presence
You must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least half of the required residence period.
Good Moral Character
You must demonstrate good moral character during the statutory period, with certain offenses creating bars or requiring careful analysis.
English & Civics
You must be able to read, write, and speak basic English and pass a civics test on U.S. history and government, unless an exemption applies.

N-400 Naturalization Process

The naturalization process is a defined sequence from filing to the Oath of Allegiance.

Step 01

Eligibility Review & Filing

We confirm your residence period, screen for moral-character issues, and prepare and file Form N-400 with supporting documentation.

Step 02

Biometrics Appointment

USCIS schedules a biometrics appointment to capture your fingerprints, photo, and signature for background checks.

Step 03

Interview & Tests

You attend an interview where an officer reviews your application and administers the English and civics tests. We prepare you for both.

Step 04

Oath of Allegiance

Upon approval, you take the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony and receive your Certificate of Naturalization as a U.S. citizen.

Required Documents

The exact set varies by case, but most N-400 filings include the following.

Core Documents

Copy of the front and back of your green card
Form N-400 with filing fee
Current and prior passports showing travel history
Two passport-style photographs (if filing from abroad)

Residence & Character Evidence

Travel history records for the statutory period
Tax returns or transcripts
Marriage certificate (for the three-year spouse rule)
Proof of spouse's U.S. citizenship (three-year rule)
Selective Service registration (if applicable)

If Applicable

Certified records of any arrests or citations
Documentation of child support or tax payment plans
Medical certification for disability accommodations (Form N-648)

Frequently Asked Questions

Generally five years as a lawful permanent resident. If you are married to and living with a U.S. citizen for the whole period, the requirement drops to three years. You can typically file up to 90 days before completing the required period.