Which Steps Are Necessary to Become a US Citizen? 2024

Becoming a U.S. citizen is an exciting milestone in an immigration journey. Gaining citizenship comes with gaining a myriad of rights and responsibilities, including voting rights, family reunification rights, and the right to hold a US passport. However, the naturalization process to gain US citizenship can be complicated to navigate. Therefore, those looking to start the process are likely wondering: which steps are necessary to become a U.S. citizen?

If you have started looking into becoming a U.S. citizen in 2024, it is critical to understand the different steps you need to walk through to arrive at this significant immigration goal.

Six Steps to Becoming a U.S. Citizen

Although the process for applying for and obtaining US citizenship may seem overwhelming, breaking it down into bite-sized steps makes it more straightforward and attainable. In six steps, you can attain US citizenship:

1. Make sure you are eligible to be a U.S. citizen

Before initiating the US citizenship application process, it is critical to make sure you are eligible for US citizenship through naturalization. An experienced immigration lawyer can help you understand whether you meet the requirements, such as being at least 18 years of age, having been a lawful permanent resident physically present in the country for a certain amount of time, and being able to demonstrate continuous residency.

2. File your application for naturalization

Start the naturalization process by submitting Form N-400, Application for Naturalization with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). In this form, you will be required to provide personal information, your immigration history, and information about your home and job. Based on your application, the supporting documentation you may be required to provide will vary. You will also need to pay the filing fee for the form.

3. Go to your scheduled biometrics appointment

After your application for naturalization has been processed by USCIS, a biometrics appointment will be scheduled. Attend this appointment so they can take your photograph, fingerprints, and signature. They will use this collected data to run a background check on you.

4. Prepare for your naturalization test

After attending your biometrics appointment, you will be scheduled for a citizenship interview with USCIS. During this interview, a naturalization test will be administered, which is made up of two major parts: an English section and a US civics section. Prepare in advance for this test by studying the questions provided by USCIS on U.S. government and civics and practicing your reading, writing, and speaking skills in English.

5. Attend your USCIS citizenship interview

During your citizenship interview, a USCIS officer will ask you questions about your application, including your personal information and immigration histories, to determine whether you qualify to be a U.S. citizen. Review your application ahead of time so you can answer these questions confidently. During this interview, a naturalization test will also be administered.

6. Receive your naturalization certificate

After your USCIS citizenship interview, your application may be approved or denied, or an officer may request more information. If your application is accepted, you will be scheduled for a naturalization ceremony. During this ceremony, you will be required to take an oath of allegiance to the United States. If you choose to take the oath of allegiance, you will receive your naturalization certificate, which officially proves your status as a U.S. citizen.

After receiving your naturalization certificate, be sure to celebrate all you have accomplished and take advantage of the benefits and rights that come with being a U.S. citizen.

FAQs

What Are the Basic Requirements for Becoming a U.S. Citizen in 2024?

Individuals interested in pursuing US citizenship must meet various requirements to be eligible for naturalization, such as being at least 18 years of age and being a green card holder for a certain period of time. Additionally, they will need to show that they are of good moral character and have been continuously and physically residing in the United States for a certain period of time. Furthermore, they will need to pass a test and take an oath of allegiance.

How Do I Apply for U.S. Citizenship?

To apply for US citizenship, it is important to review your situation to make sure that you do not already have citizenship and that you are eligible to initiate the naturalization process. To apply for citizenship through naturalization, you will need to submit Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, with USCIS. In addition to the form, provide supporting documents, such as a copy of your green card.

How Long Does It Take to Become a U.S. Citizen in 2024?

The amount of time it takes to become a U.S. citizen in 2024 is dependent on various factors, including your case complexity, the evidence supporting your application, whether or not you have a criminal record, your location, and the current caseload at your local office. To obtain a more detailed timeline for the processing of your naturalization application and subsequent interviews, it’s recommended that you work with an immigration lawyer.

What Is the Citizenship Test, and How Can I Prepare for It?

The citizenship test, otherwise known as the naturalization test, is an examination provided by USCIS to test your English language skills and knowledge of US civics. The English language test consists of a reading and writing section, with speaking abilities being judged informally by a USCIS officer during the interview. The civics section involves asking questions published by the USCIS that are related to U.S. history and government.

Do I Need a Lawyer to Apply for U.S. Citizenship?

Although it is not a legal requirement to hire an attorney to apply for US citizenship, it is highly recommended to enlist their support on your naturalization application, especially if your case comes with complications. An attorney can help ensure your application is filled out fully and accurately, helping you avoid unnecessary rejections or delays. Furthermore, an attorney can serve as your legal advocate should any issues arise with your application.

Pursue U.S. Citizenship With a Skilled Immigration Lawyer

Although becoming a U.S. citizen is an exciting milestone in an individual’s immigration journey, it can also come with stress and uncertainty due to the complexity of the naturalization process. A skilled and experienced immigration lawyer from U.S. Law Center can work closely with you to help ensure a smooth application process and bolster your application with robust evidence to present a strong case. Contact us today to get started championing naturalization.