How to Become A US Citizen
By Bailey Brown and Emily Goebel
Do you want to become a citizen of the U.S.? Follow these steps
- Make sure you're not already a citizen. If you were born in the US or one or both of your parents were citizens, you may already be a citizen. (refer to Form N-600 or Application for Certificate of Citizenship)
- Make sure you meet the qualifications listed below
- Prepare Form N-400 to apply for citizenship
- Submit Form N-400
- Go to biometrics appointment if you qualify
- Complete the interview
- Get decision from USCIS about your application
- Get notice to take oath of allegiance
- Take the oath of allegiance
- Begin life as a U.S. citizen
Criteria
- You must be 18 years or older before you file Form N-400
- You must be a permanent resident for 5 years and have a green card before filing a form
- Posses proof that you have lived in the United States for at least 5 years
- You must have proof that you have been present in the United States for at least 30 months out of the 5 years immediately before the date you file a form
- You must have proof that you've lived in the state that you applied for 3 months or more
- You must be of good moral character
- Hold tight to the ideals in the constitution
- Be able to use basic English
- Know basic U.S. History and government
- Pledge allegiance to the U.S.
Becoming a U.S. citizen brings its own rewards, but also its own obligations, make sure you're ready to accept all of them.
Some rights and responsibilities of being an American citizen:
Rights Responsibilities
Rights: Responsibilities:
- Freedom of religion 1. Paying taxes
- Freedom of speech 2. Jury duty
- Right to bear arms 3. Obey laws