Citizenship is an important, but sometimes complicated, process. Those who are seeking it should be familiar with the requirements for citizenship and understand how they can navigate the process as smoothly as possible.
To apply for citizenship, an applicant must:
- Already possess a green card;
- Be at least 18 years of age;
- Have “good moral character;”
- Be able to read, write and speak English (although there are some exemptions for the English and civics tests);
- Pass a test concerning United States history and government;
- Swear to believe in the principles of the U.S. Constitution and to be loyal to the United States.
In addition, the applicant must have lived in the country for at least five or three years (depending on how the green card was obtained) as a permanent resident (unless they meet specific exceptions). During those five or three years, the applicant must have been physically present in the United States for at least half that time. The applicant cannot have spent more than one year at a time residing outside of the country or established a primary home in another country. Plus, the applicant must have lived in the state or district where they are filing their application for citizenship for at least three months before submitting the citizenship application.
The applicant seeking citizenship will also need to prepare for their citizenship interview. Once their application for citizenship has been approved, the applicant will attend a swearing-in ceremony and enjoy the rights and privileges of citizenship. To help them navigate the process, it is essential that those seeking citizenship are familiar with the different steps in the citizenship process. Yemi Getachew Immigration Law Office has helped many obtain their citizenship throughout the past twenty-plus years and committed to assisting individuals to achieve the American Dream.
