How to Become a US Citizen?

Like the question in the title, there are many such queries and doubts that arise when one applies for US citizenship certificate. Becoming a US citizen is a dream come true for most of the immigrants. Indeed most of them feel that it is a strenuous process unless and until the individual who is applying for the citizenship is satisfied regarding all the related issues. Lets discuss some of the queries that crop up when one applies for N-400 application and the relevant answers for such queries.

When should the citizenship application form N-400 be filed?

Citizenship application also called as the the Form N-400 is used by Lawful Permanent Residents over the age of 18 who meet the eligibility requirements to apply for U.S. citizenship.

What are the eligibility requirements of an immigrant to file form N 400?

The eligibility requirements are that an immigrant should:

be at least 18 years old

be a lawful permanent resident of the United States.

have resided in the U.S. for at least three to five years and half of the time should be spent in the U.S.

apply after three years if married to a U.S.citizen or should apply after five years if you are a permanent resident.

resided in the current state for at least 3 months.

take an oath of allegiance to the United States.

have proficient knowledge and fluency in English.

have knowledge US history and government

not be involved in any crime.

meet the continuous and the permanent residency requirements

Who may not file the Citizenship Application,N-400?

A person born outside of the United States to U.S. citizen parents, in certain cases, is already a citizen. Such a person need not file Form N-400.

What do I have to submit with the citizenship application?

The citizenship application packet should contain Form N-400, copy of the permanent residence card as evidence of lawful permanent residence, two passport style photographs, fees, and the required supporting documents.

What is the process after filing the U.S. Citizenship Application and getting a Naturalization certificate?

After filing the US citizenship Application, form N-400, USCIS will send an appointment letter for fingerprinting. The applicant will be requested to appear at the local Application Support Center at the date and time listed on the appointment letter. After the back ground check USCIS will notify the applicant about the date, time and place of the interview. At the interview, the applicant will be tested on his or her knowledge of the English language, as well as for basic knowledge of US history and government (Civics). If the applicant passes the test he or she will receive a notification in the mail informing him or her to appear at a Naturalization Oath ceremony. At the ceremony, the applicant will take on oath of allegiance, receive a Citizenship certificate or naturalization certificate, and become a citizen of the U.S.

What is the processing time for the citizenship application?

The approximate processing time is about 9 months

The above are the very common queries when an individual applies for naturalization certificate. It becomes an easy job to get a citizenship certificate if such queries are answered.