Question
Requirements to become a U.S. citizen
Answers
GPT-4o mini
To become a U.S. citizen through naturalization, an individual generally needs to meet the following requirements:
1. **Age**: Must be at least 18 years old when you apply.
2. **Lawful Permanent Resident**: Must be a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for at least 5 years (3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
3. **Continuous Residence**: Must have continuously resided in the U.S. for at least 5 years preceding the application (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen). You should not have taken any trips abroad that lasted 6 months or longer, as this may disrupt continuous residence.
4. **Physical Presence**: Must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least half of the required residency period (e.g., 30 months of the last 5 years).
5. **Good Moral Character**: Must demonstrate good moral character for the 5 years preceding your application (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
6. **English Language**: Must be able to read, write, and speak basic English. Exceptions exist for certain applicants based on age and long-term residency.
7. **Civics Knowledge**: Must pass a civics test covering U.S. history and government, unless you qualify for an exemption based on age and time as a permanent resident.
8. **Oath of Allegiance**: Must take an Oath of Allegiance to the United States, pledging loyalty to the nation.
9. **Application Process**: You must complete Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) and submit it with the required fees and documentation.
It is important to note that specific cases may have additional considerations or exceptions. It’s recommended to review the latest guidelines from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or seek legal advice for personalized guidance.
1. **Age**: Must be at least 18 years old when you apply.
2. **Lawful Permanent Resident**: Must be a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for at least 5 years (3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
3. **Continuous Residence**: Must have continuously resided in the U.S. for at least 5 years preceding the application (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen). You should not have taken any trips abroad that lasted 6 months or longer, as this may disrupt continuous residence.
4. **Physical Presence**: Must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least half of the required residency period (e.g., 30 months of the last 5 years).
5. **Good Moral Character**: Must demonstrate good moral character for the 5 years preceding your application (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
6. **English Language**: Must be able to read, write, and speak basic English. Exceptions exist for certain applicants based on age and long-term residency.
7. **Civics Knowledge**: Must pass a civics test covering U.S. history and government, unless you qualify for an exemption based on age and time as a permanent resident.
8. **Oath of Allegiance**: Must take an Oath of Allegiance to the United States, pledging loyalty to the nation.
9. **Application Process**: You must complete Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) and submit it with the required fees and documentation.
It is important to note that specific cases may have additional considerations or exceptions. It’s recommended to review the latest guidelines from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or seek legal advice for personalized guidance.