Acquiring citizenship includes gaining U.S. citizenship through U.S. citizen parents after birth or by meeting specific requirements and applying for citizenship. Generally, legal permanent residents (green card holders) who are 18 years or older may apply for citizenship if they meet the eligibility criteria. Most applicants are required to pass English language and U.S. history and government exams.
These general eligibility conditions state that the applicant must possess the following qualities:
To be eligible for citizenship, an applicant must meet the following criteria:
Be a Green Card holder (the required duration as a permanent resident varies by category).
Fulfill the waiting period as determined after being granted a Green Card in their category.
Be at least 18 years old
Avoid trips outside the U.S. lasting six months or longer during the waiting period set before applying for citizenship.
Have resided in the state where applying for at least 3 months.
Exhibit good moral character
Successfully complete the English language test and the civics knowledge test.
Be willing to serve in the U.S. when called to national service.
Commit to upholding the U.S. Constitution.
