Naturalization is the process by which U.S. citizenship is conferred upon a foreign citizen or national after he or she fulfills the requirements established by Congress in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). The general requirements for administrative naturalization include:

• a period of continuous residence and physical presence in the United States;
• residence in a particular USCIS District prior to filing;
• an ability to read, write, and speak English;
• a knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government;
• good moral character;
• attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution; and,
• favorable disposition toward the United States.

All naturalization applicants must demonstrate good moral character, attachment, and favorable disposition. The other naturalization requirements may be modified or waived for certain applicants, such as spouses of U.S. citizens. Applicants should review the following materials and carefully read the N-400 application instructions before applying.

By choosing the headings on the left side of this page, you can access:

• A Guide to Naturalization: A comprehensive booklet which provides information on the benefits and responsibilities of citizenship, an overview of the naturalization process and eligibility requirements. USCIS now offers this publication in several languages. (Note: You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader 5.0 or later to read this document.)
• Eligibility Requirements and Testing: This page details general and special requirements for becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen, and includes an interactive eligibility worksheet. Additionally, the page provides links to study guides and an interactive self test for U.S. history and government. From this page, you may also link to information on USCIS� Redesign of Naturalization Testing.
• Naturalization Application Procedures: From this page, you can download Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, and link to information on where to file your application, the fingerprint process, and fee waiver policies.
• FAQs: This page provides a list of frequently asked questions about naturalization and citizenship.
• Filing Locations: This interactive map allows you to choose the state where you live and provides the address for the Service Center where you should send your completed Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.

You may be required to register with Selective Service to be eligible for some immigration benefits, like citizenship. Click here to get more information about whether you are required to register or to register on-line with Selective Service.

Selective Service Online Registration

The site also offers information on:
History of Naturalization Processing You may be interested in reading more about the history of naturalization processing, especially in the United States under the Articles of Confederation and then under the U.S. Constitution.

Citizenship Information (Including Citizenship and Children)