Naturalization is the process by which foreign nationals can receive United States citizenship. The individual seeking naturalization must meet certain basic requirements in order to be eligible for U.S. citizenship:
- Be 18 years of age or older at the time of filing the naturalization application (subject to certain exceptions).
- Be admitted to permanent resident status.
- Have continuous residence in the United States as a permanent resident for at least five (5) years (in most cases; the requirement is three (3) years if married to a U.S. citizen).
- Reside for at least three (3) months in the state where the application is filed.
- Meet physical presence requirements.
- Maintain continuous residence in the United States from the date of filing the naturalization application to admission to citizenship.
- Demonstrate fluency in communicating in the English language.
- Demonstrate knowledge of U.S. government and history.
- Be of good moral character.
Applicants may be held to more or less restrictive standards depending on their background. An absence from the United States of six (6) months or more may constitute disruption of continuity of residence.
