Citizenship

Overview

Naturalization and birthright citizenship

U.S. citizenship is acquired by birth (on U.S. soil or through a citizen parent) or through naturalization. Naturalization typically requires 3 to 5 years as a permanent resident, continuous physical presence, and passing civics and English tests.

Most green card holders become eligible to naturalize after 5 years of continuous permanent residence (3 years if married to and living with a U.S. citizen). You must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least half that period and demonstrate good moral character.

The naturalization process involves an N-400 application, biometrics appointment, and an interview with a USCIS officer where you take an English and civics test (100 questions, 10 asked, 6 correct required). You then attend an oath ceremony.

Children born on U.S. soil generally acquire citizenship automatically (14th Amendment). Children born abroad to U.S. citizen parents may acquire citizenship at birth under INA § 301 or § 309 depending on the parent's prior residency history.

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7 indexed updates
Mar 19, 2026 → Jun 16, 2026 · 90 days
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43% restrictive43% neutral14% favorable
Based on 7 indexed updates in the last 90 days

Visa types in this category

NaturalizationN-400 application path to citizenship for green card holders: interview, civics test, and oath ceremony.BirthrightCitizenship acquired at birth on U.S. soil (jus soli) or through a U.S. citizen parent (jus sanguinis).

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