How to get nationality in USA 2022-23

U.S. Citizenship through Naturalization

Becoming a citizen through naturalization is a process in which a non-U.S. citizen voluntarily becomes an American citizen. U.S. citizens:

• Owe their allegiance to the United States
• Are entitled to its protection 
• Should exercise their rights and responsibilities as citizens

Review this visual overview (PDF, Download Adobe Reader) about the general naturalization process.

To become a U.S. citizen, you must:

• Have had a Permanent Resident (Green) Card for at least five years, or for at least three years if you’re filing as the spouse of a U.S. citizen.
  • You must renew your Permanent Resident Card before applying for citizenship if:

• Your card will expire within six months of applying, or
• Your card has already expired

• You can apply for naturalization before you receive your new Green Card. But, you’ll need to submit a photocopy of the receipt for your Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, when you receive it.  

• Meet certain eligibility requirements. To see if you’re eligible, click on the link that is most similar to your situation. Some requirements may include being:
  • At least 18 years old when you apply 
  • Able to read, write, and speak basic English
  • Of good moral character
• Go through the 10-step naturalization process which includes:
• Determining your eligibility to become an American citizen
• Completing Form N-400, the application for naturalization, and creating a free account to submit your form online 
• Taking the U.S. Naturalization Test and having a personal intervie

Learn English

If you want to learn English or need to join an English as a Second Language (ESL) program for school or work, these resources can help you find local and online courses:

• Internet: Learn English from home with the website USALearns.org or download the application to your phone or tablet to practice on the go. Listen to ShareAmerica.gov for audio conversations to learn English.
• Schools or Nonprofit Organizations: If you live in the U.S., every state, county, and city has its own education programs and resources for learning English. If you have children, talk to their school staff,  or contact a community college, university, or nonprofit organization to find local programs.