Questions and Answers
What is the minimum length of time a lawful permanent resident must live in the United States before they are eligible to apply for naturalization?
5 years, or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen
Besides meeting the residency requirements, what are two other crucial eligibility criteria for naturalization?
Good moral character and the ability to read, write, and speak basic English.
Describe the purpose of the biometrics appointment during the naturalization process.
To collect fingerprints and conduct background checks to verify the applicant's identity and confirm their eligibility.
What are two rights that U.S. citizens gain after naturalization that lawful permanent residents do not have?
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Explain the significance of the Oath of Allegiance in the naturalization process.
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What are two responsibilities that U.S. citizens have, as outlined in the text?
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How does the naturalization process contribute to the principle of civic engagement?
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What is the relationship between the rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizenship?
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Study Notes
Eligibility Requirements
- At least 18 years old
- Lawful permanent resident of the United States for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen)
- Physically present in the United States for at least 30 months
- Continuously resided in the United States from the date of application to the time of naturalization
- Good moral character
- Ability to read, write, and speak basic English
- Knowledge of U.S. history, government, and civics
- Attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution
Application Process
- Determine eligibility: Review the eligibility requirements and ensure you meet them.
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Prepare the application: Gather required documents, including:
- Form N-400, Application for Naturalization
- Passport-style photos
- Copy of Green Card
- Proof of identity and residency
- Submit the application: File the application with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and pay the required fee.
- Biometrics appointment: Attend a biometrics appointment for fingerprinting and background checks.
- Interview and test: Attend an interview with a USCIS officer and pass a test on U.S. history, government, and civics, as well as a reading and writing test in basic English.
- Oath ceremony: Take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States and receive a Certificate of Naturalization.
Rights and Responsibilities
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Rights:
- Vote in federal elections
- Run for public office
- Serve on a jury
- Travel with a U.S. passport
- Bring family members to the United States
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Responsibilities:
- Support and defend the U.S. Constitution
- Stay informed about U.S. laws and government
- Participate in the democratic process
- Respect the rights of others
- Obey U.S. laws and regulations
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- A lawful permanent resident for a minimum of 5 years; only 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen.
- Required to be physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months.
- Must have continuously resided in the U.S. from application date until naturalization.
- Must demonstrate good moral character.
- Ability to read, write, and speak basic English is essential.
- Knowledge of U.S. history, government, and civics is required.
- Must express attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution.
Application Process
- Determine eligibility by reviewing the requirements.
- Prepare the application by gathering necessary documentation, including:
- Form N-400 for naturalization.
- Passport-style photographs.
- A copy of the Green Card.
- Proof of identity and residency documentation.
- Submit the application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) along with the fee.
- Attend a biometrics appointment for fingerprinting and background checks.
- Participate in an interview with a USCIS officer; pass tests covering U.S. history, government, civics, and basic English reading and writing.
- Complete the process by taking the Oath of Allegiance and receiving the Certificate of Naturalization.
Rights and Responsibilities
-
Rights include:
- Voting in federal elections.
- Running for public office.
- Serving on a jury.
- Traveling with a U.S. passport.
- Bringing family members to the U.S.
-
Responsibilities involve:
- Supporting and defending the U.S. Constitution.
- Staying informed on U.S. laws and government operations.
- Engaging in the democratic process.
- Respecting the rights of fellow citizens.
- Obeying U.S. laws and regulations.
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Description
Test your knowledge of the eligibility requirements for becoming a naturalized US citizen, including age, residency, and character requirements.
