N-400, Application for Naturalization
Naturalization is the process to become a U.S. citizen if you were born outside of the United States. If you meet certain requirements, you may become a U.S. citizen either at birth or after birth.
To apply for naturalization to become a U.S. citizen, you must:
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Be at least 18 years of age at the time you file the application;
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Have been a lawful permanent resident for the past three or five years (depending on which naturalization category you are applying under);
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Have continuous residence and physical presence in the United States;
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Be able to read, write, and speak basic English;
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Demonstrate good moral character;
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Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government;
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Demonstrate a loyalty to the principles of the U.S. Constitution; and
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Be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance.
Continuous Residence
Applicants are required to show that they have:
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Resided continuously in the U.S. for five years before applying, or
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Resided continuously in the U.S. for three years in the case of qualified spouses of U.S. citizens,
“Continuous residence” means that the applicant has maintained residence within the United States for the required period of time shown above.
Extended absences outside of the U.S. may disrupt an applicant’s continuous residence.
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Absences of more than six months but less than one year may disrupt an applicant’s continuous residence unless the applicant can prove otherwise,
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Absences in excess of one year or more may disrupt an applicant’s continuous residence.
Physical Presence
Applicants are required to show that they were:
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Physically present in the U.S. for thirty months within the five year period before applying, or
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Physically present in the U.S. for eighteen months within the three year period before applying in the case of qualified spouses of U.S. citizens.
In addition, applicants are required to show they have resided for at least three months immediately preceding the filing of Form N-400 in the USCIS district or state where the applicant claims to have residency.
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