Naturalization & Citizenship

There are many benefits to becoming a U.S. citizen, voting in elections, bringing family members to the U.S., obtaining citizenship for children born abroad, traveling with a U.S. passport, becoming eligible for federal jobs, or simply a desire to become a full participant in American society. An individual who has lived in the U.S. as a legal permanent resident for five years, or three years if they are married to a U.S. citizen, may apply for naturalization. Certain requirements must be met including continuous residence, physical presence in the U.S., the ability to read, write and speak English, knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government and good moral character. A history of any criminal allegations must be carefully reviewed prior to applying for naturalization. In some cases, individuals may acquire citizenship, or it may derived automatically after birth, by operation of law.