Naturalization Requirements: Are You Eligible for US Citizenship?

To be eligible for US citizenship through naturalization, you must be at least 18, hold a green card for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a US citizen), maintain continuous residence and physical presence in the US, demonstrate good moral character, and pass English and civics tests. According to USCIS, these are the standard requirements, though special rules apply for spouses of US citizens and military service members.

Standard Requirements (5-Year Rule)

Most applicants must meet these requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old at the time of filing
• Be a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for at least 5 years
• Have continuous residence in the US for 5 years
• Have been physically present in the US for at least 30 months out of the 5 years
• Have lived in your current state or district for at least 3 months
• Demonstrate good moral character
• Be able to read, write, and speak basic English
• Have knowledge of US history and government (civics)
• Be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance

Married to a US Citizen (3-Year Rule)

If you're married to and living with a US citizen, you may be eligible after just 3 years as a permanent resident. Additional requirements:

• Your spouse must have been a US citizen for the entire 3 years
• You must have been married and living together for 3 years
• Physical presence requirement: 18 months (instead of 30 months)

Military Service

Members of the US Armed Forces may be eligible for expedited naturalization with relaxed requirements. Active-duty service members can apply from anywhere in the world.

When Can You Apply?

According to USCIS, you can submit your N-400 application up to 90 days before you meet the continuous residence requirement (so at 4 years and 9 months for the 5-year rule, or 2 years and 9 months for the 3-year rule).

Start Preparing Now

If you're eligible, don't wait to start preparing for your citizenship test. The best way to prepare is with mock interviews that simulate the actual USCIS interview. Start practicing now so you're ready when your interview is scheduled.