Naturalization Explained: U.S. Citizenship Requirements and Process

For permanent residents ready to take the final step, naturalization offers the security and opportunities that only citizenship provides. In fiscal year 2024, more than 818,000 people became U.S. citizens through naturalization — a number that has now surpassed pre-pandemic averages. The path forward, however, is governed by strict eligibility standards, detailed documentation, and close government scrutiny.

Navigating naturalization takes more than good intentions — it takes a clear understanding of the rules and how they’re applied. From continuous residence requirements to the civics exam, every stage carries weight and must be handled thoughtfully. Legal guidance ensures that the process is not only completed but completed correctly.

Keep reading to learn what’s required, what challenges to expect, and how to position yourself for success.

Eligibility for Naturalization

Not every permanent resident is immediately eligible to apply for citizenship. The law sets out specific requirements, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) enforces them closely. Falling short on even one of these can delay or derail an application. According to the Department of Homeland Security, as of January 2023, there were about 12.7 million lawful permanent residents in the U.S., and roughly 9 million met the age and residency thresholds to be potentially eligible for naturalization.

While there are some exceptions — such as for military service — most applicants must meet the following standards:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old when you file Form N-400.

• Permanent resident status: Generally, you need five years as a lawful permanent resident, or three years if you’re married to and living with a U.S. citizen.

• Continuous residence: You must show you have lived continuously in the U.S. for the required period, without extended absences that could break residency.

• Physical presence: At least half of that time must be spent physically in the United States.

• State or district residence: You need at least three months of living in the state or USCIS district where you file.

• Good moral character: USCIS will evaluate your conduct during the statutory period — including any criminal record, tax compliance, and other factors that speak to integrity.

• English and civics knowledge: Most applicants must demonstrate the ability to read, write, and speak basic English and pass a civics exam on U.S. history and government. Certain age and residency combinations may qualify for exemptions.

• Oath of allegiance: Every applicant must be willing to swear loyalty to the United States and uphold the Constitution.

Meeting these requirements is the foundation of a successful naturalization case. But the details matter — how USCIS counts travel days, what qualifies as continuous residence, or whether a past incident could affect moral character can change the outcome. The sheer volume of applications each year means USCIS has little room for error. Applicants who file incomplete or inconsistent paperwork risk delays or denials.

Understanding the rules is the first step. Applying them to your own situation is where preparation and, often, legal guidance becomes essential.

The Naturalization Process Step by Step

Naturalization follows a defined process. Knowing what to expect helps you avoid surprises and prepares you for success.

1. File Form N-400.

The Application for Naturalization is the official start. The filing fee is currently $760 (paper filing fee) or $710 (online filing fee), which includes biometrics. About 14 percent of applicants in FY 2024 received a fee waiver, showing that cost remains a barrier for many. Accuracy matters here; errors or omissions are a common cause of delay.

2. Attend Biometrics.

USCIS schedules you for a Biometric Services Appointment, which includes fingerprints, a photo, and background checks. This step verifies identity and screens for security concerns. Missing or postponing this appointment can stall your entire case.

3. Complete the Interview and Tests.

A USCIS officer will review your application and ask questions to confirm eligibility. Most applicants must also pass two tests: one on English skills and one on U.S. civics. While USCIS offers study guides, thousands fail each year because they underestimate the preparation needed.

4. Take the Oath of Allegiance.

If approved, USCIS invites you to a naturalization ceremony. Taking the oath is the final legal step. From that day forward, you are a U.S. citizen with all the rights and responsibilities that status brings.

Hundreds of thousands of applicants complete these steps every year. The process works, but USCIS examines each case closely, which is why thorough preparation matters.

Common Challenges That Can Delay or Derail Applications

On paper, the path to naturalization looks simple. In practice, applicants run into roadblocks that can slow or stop their progress. Common issues include:

• Extended Travel Abroad: Trips over six months raise questions about continuous residence. Without supporting documentation, USCIS may decide you broke residency.

• Tax Problems: Failing to file or pay taxes can harm a good moral character determination.

• Criminal History: Even old or minor offenses may require detailed explanations. USCIS examines arrests, charges, and convictions carefully.

• Application Errors: Incomplete answers, wrong dates, or inconsistent information are frequent reasons for requests for evidence.

• Test Failures: The civics and English tests are straightforward with preparation, but many applicants fail because they underestimate the material.

With USCIS handling hundreds of thousands of naturalization cases each year, the agency has little margin for error. Applications that raise red flags are slowed, questioned, or denied. Careful planning is the best defense.

Why Experienced Legal Guidance Matters

Naturalization may look like a form and an interview, but it is rooted in a highly technical body of immigration law. USCIS applies these rules strictly. An attorney experienced in citizenship and naturalization can make the difference between approval and a denial.

A lawyer can:

• Spot risks before you file, such as long trips abroad or criminal history issues.

• Ensure the application is accurate, complete, and supported by the right documentation.

• Prepare you for the interview and tests so you know what to expect.

• Respond effectively to a request for evidence, a denial, or the need to appeal.

At Gendelberg Law, we guide clients through each stage of the citizenship and naturalization process. We help you anticipate problems, prepare thoroughly, and move forward with confidence. Citizenship is too important to risk on assumptions or avoidable errors.

Taking the Next Step Toward Citizenship

Becoming a U.S. citizen secures rights that permanent residency cannot guarantee and provides lasting peace of mind. The process is demanding, but with the right preparation, it is within reach.

If you are ready to begin your journey, Gendelberg Law is here to help. We work with clients to evaluate eligibility, build strong applications, and navigate the process from start to finish.

Contact us today to take the next step toward citizenship.