CITIZENSHIP
You may become a U.S. citizen either by birth or after birth.
To become a citizen by birth, you must:
- Have been born in the United States or certain territories or outlying possessions of the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction of the United States.
- Had at least one U.S. citizen parent and your parent(s) who were citizens at the time of your birth
To become a citizen after birth, you must:
- Apply for “derived” or “acquired” citizenship through parents
- Apply through naturalization
U.S Citizenship through Naturalization
Requirements:
- Have had a Permanent Resident (Green) Card for at least five years, or for at least three years if you’re filing as the spouse of a U.S. citizen.
- You must renew your card if you are applying for naturalization less than six months before your Permanent Resident Card expires
Eligibility:
- At least 18 years old at the time of filing.
- Able to read, write, and speak basic English, with some exceptions.
- A person of good moral character
The Naturalization Test:
- Taking the U.S. Naturalization Test (English & Civics (U.S. history and government))
- A personal interview
Citizenship for Military Members and Dependents:
If an applicant has served in the United States Armed Forces during war, that individual may obtain citizenship without first becoming a permanent resident if he or she was in the United States upon enlistment into the US military.