Naturalization Requirements

Age and Eligibility:

Apart from meeting the three- or five-year waiting period requirement following the acquisition of a green card (unless applying based on qualifying military service), certain essential prerequisites must be fulfilled to proceed with the naturalization process and attain United States citizenship.

Age Requirement:

Attaining a minimum age of 18 is a fundamental condition for individuals seeking naturalization. This age criterion underscores the necessity for a certain level of maturity and legal capacity in the pursuit of U.S. citizenship.

Travel History:

During the prescribed three- or five-year waiting period, individuals must avoid taking trips lasting six months or longer outside the United States. This travel restriction is in place to ensure a consistent and sustained connection to the U.S. during the naturalization process.

Residency in the State of Application:

Applicants must establish residency in the state where they intend to apply for citizenship for at least three months. This regional requirement emphasizes a localized commitment to the community where citizenship is sought.

Good Moral Character:

Demonstrating "good moral character" is a crucial aspect of the naturalization process. This broadly defined concept aligns with the standards upheld by the average citizens in the community. Specific disqualifying factors include certain criminal activities such as murder, illegal gambling, or intentional deception of the U.S. government for immigration benefits. The determination of an applicant's moral character is made on a case-by-case basis by the government.

Naturalization Test:

A two-part naturalization test is a pivotal aspect of the process. The English language test, covering reading, writing, and speaking skills, evaluates an applicant's proficiency. The civics test assesses knowledge of U.S. history and government. Successful completion of these tests reflects the applicant's preparedness for full integration into American society.

Willingness to Serve:

Expressing a willingness to serve in the U.S. military or perform civilian service for the United States is a mandatory commitment. This requirement underscores the concept of civic duty and allegiance to the nation.

Selective Service Registration:

Male applicants, aged 18 to 25, who have lived in the United States, must register with the Selective Service System. This registration is a crucial step, ensuring compliance with the nation's conscription procedures.

Defense of the U.S. Constitution:

A fundamental commitment to defend the U.S. Constitution is a core requirement for naturalization. This pledge signifies a dedication to upholding the principles and values enshrined in the foundational document of the United States.

Exceptions Based on Age and Disability:

Certain exceptions based on age and disability may be considered, recognizing that individual circumstances may warrant flexibility in meeting specific naturalization requirements. These exceptions are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, acknowledging the diversity of applicants and their unique situations.

*Applicants aged 65 and older are required to study only 20 of the 100 usual questions that most applicants must prepare for. The test administrator will ask 10 of the 20 questions, but the applicant will need to answer only six correctly to pass.

Exceptions Based on Disability:

Individuals with physical, developmental, or mental disabilities may qualify for an exemption from the English and civics test requirements. To apply for this exemption, applicants can submit Form N-648, officially known as the "Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions," which must be completed by a medical doctor. This provision recognizes the unique circumstances of individuals facing disabilities and aims to facilitate their access to the naturalization process.

Exceptions Based on Peacetime Military Service:

Applicants applying for naturalization based on at least one year of peacetime military service are exempt from meeting specific requirements, such as the travel history and state residency conditions outlined earlier. To fulfill the "good moral character" requirement (No. 4), applicants must maintain a clean criminal record for at least five years before filing until the naturalization process is completed.

Exceptions Based on Wartime Military Service:

Individuals applying for naturalization based on any period of wartime military service enjoy broader exemptions. These applicants are not bound by age restrictions (No. 1) and are exempt from the travel history and state residency conditions (Nos. 2 and 3). Similar to peacetime service, meeting the "good moral character" requirement (No. 4) entails maintaining a crime-free record for at least one year before filing until the naturalization process is finalized.

Special Requirements for U.S. Military Personnel:

Current or former members of the U.S. armed forces who are green card holders must adhere to additional criteria. They must not have deserted from the U.S. military and must have never received a discharge or exemption based on their non-U.S. citizen status. These additional requirements acknowledge the unique circumstances of military service and underscore the commitment expected from those who have served or are serving in the U.S. military.

Fee Reduction or Waiver:

For individuals facing financial constraints, a fee reduction or waiver option is available for filing fees based on income. This ensures that economic considerations do not impede access to the naturalization process. Those unable to afford the filing fee for income-based reasons can apply for this reduction or waiver, emphasizing inclusivity and accessibility in the pursuit of U.S. citizenship.

BRBF Immigration Assistance:

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