BECOMING A US CITIZEN

Methods of becoming a U.S. Citizen

Birth within the US or its
territories
Birth outside the US but to a
Parent who is a US citizen
Naturalization Requirements
 Continuous residence for 5 years in the U.S. as a lawful
permanent resident immediately prior to
naturalization, and physically present in the U.S. for at
least half that time.

 18 years old, or under 18 but a lawful permanent

resident in the legal custody of a parent who is a U.S.
citizen by birth or naturalization

 except for the physically and developmentally disabled)

able to speak, understand, read, and write simple
English + a knowledge and understanding of the history,
principles, and form of the U.S. government.

 good moral character for at least the 5 years

immediately prior to naturalization (e.g., not a habitual
drunkard, has not been convicted of a crime of moral
turpitude.

 attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution

and well disposed to the good order and happiness of
the U.S.

 takes an oath of allegiance to the U.S. in open court,

renouncing allegiance to any previous countries of
citizenship

EXEMPTIONS

 Permanent residents who have served honorably

 in the U.S. armed forces for 3 years and are still
on active duty or were discharged 6 months or
less prior to applying

 Lawfully admitted spouses of U.S. citizens who

have resided continuously in the U.S. for 3 years
immediately before applying in "marital union"
with the U.S. citizen.

 Spouses and children who obtain lawful

permanent resident status as a result of being
battered by U.S. citizens.
Naturalization of a parent while a
chiled is under 18