Citizenship and Naturalization FAQs

   

FAQs

U.S. CITIZENSHIP RESOURCES

MILITARY IMMIGRATION & CITIZENSHIP RESOURCES

Q1. How can I become a U.S. citizen?

A1. U.S. citizenship is obtained in the following ways:

  1. Automatically, by birth in the U.S., its territories or possessions (pursuant to the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution), or by birth abroad to one or more U.S. citizen parents (depending on the applicable law specifying how long the US citizen had to be in the USA);
  2. Derivatively, as when a child derives citizenship through the naturalization of at least one parent; or
  3. Through naturalization, as when an affirmative application is made to become a U.S. citizen after having become a lawful permanent resident (where required – there are some exceptions). Different residence and physical presence periods apply depending upon how one obtained lawful permanent residence status or due to work, military service, or other factors. This category usually requires taking the oath of allegiance, being of good moral character, testing for knowledge of English and U.S. history and civics.

For proof of the first two categories, it is often faster to apply directly for a U.S. passport from the U.S. Passport Agency. In some cases, it may also be advisable to also get a Certificate of Citizenship. A naturalized citizen can obtain a U.S. passport as soon as the oath of naturalization is taken and the Certificate of Naturalization is received. Since there are many routes to citizenship, it is best to consult with an attorney. See also this USCIS resource.

Q. 2, Where can I find good study materials for the naturalization test?

A. 2. USCIS has excellent study materials including flash cards, videos and more. Also, most libraries have good learning materials and there are plenty of ESL and other civics tools online.