Naturalization (U.S. citizenship)

Naturalization is the process through which Lawful Permanent Residents gain U.S. citizenship. Although it is a voluntary process, there are many benefits to U.S. citizenship including:

  • the right to vote;

  • the right to petition for certain immediate family members;

  • certain tax benefits;

  • freedom from certain obligations imposed in order to maintain status as a US Permanent Resident; and

  • freedom from the exposure to possible deportation.

Am I eligible for Naturalization as a US citizen?

 

U.S. Citizenship is available to foreign nationals who can demonstrate that they:

  • meet continuous residence and physical residence requirements;

  • have been physically present in the U.S. for at least half of the immediately preceding five years (three years if married to a U.S. citizen);

  • are at least 18 years old;

  • are able to speak, read and write simple English;

  • have a knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of the history and of the principles and form of government of the United States;

  • have good moral character; and,

  • will be attached to the principles of the U.S. constitution.

Significant absences from the United States may affect your ability to retain your Lawful Permanent Resident status, and your eligibility to apply for naturalization.

Under certain circumstances, Lawful Permanent Residents who are spouses of US citizens temporarily stationed abroad, ministers, or military applicants may be eligible to apply for naturalization without meeting the standard continuous residence and physical presence requirements.

Dual Citizenship

 

The United States allows dual nationality but your country’s laws may not. You may wish to contact your consulate or embassy to inquire about your home country’s position on dual nationality.