What are the present requirements to become a US citizen?

Answer 1

1. Are at least 18 years old and a lawful permanent resident ("green card" holder);

2. Have resided continuously in the United States, having been lawfully admitted for permanent residence, for five years immediately preceding the date you filed your application for naturalization, or

3. Have, after having been removed from conditional permanent resident status, based upon your marriage to a U.S. citizen, having resided in the United States for one year after the date the condition was removed;

4. Have resided continuously in the United States at all times after your application to the time and date of your admission for citizenship;

5. Have, during all periods of time referred to above, been and still are a person of good moral character;

6. Have no outstanding deportation or removal order and no pending deportation or removal proceeding;

7. Have the ability to read, write, speak, and understand simple words and phrases in English;

8. Have knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of U.S. history and government;

9. Are attached to, and can support, the principles of the U.S. Constitution and can swear allegiance to the United States.

Answer 2

If you want to become a US citizen based on your own status you can do so through the naturalization process by applying for US citizenship. You will have to submit the US citizenship application Form N400. To eligible for naturalization you must be 18 years old and should have been a permanent resident for more than 5 years. You also need to fulfill all other qualification requirements like continuous residence, physical presence, state stay and good moral character.

In order to be eligible for naturalization, you must be able to read, write, and speak basic English. You must also have a basic knowledge of U.S. history and government (also known as "civics").

As a member of the U.S. Armed Forces, you may be eligible to apply for expedited citizenship under special provisions under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has created a streamlined process for military personnel who are serving in active-duty status or have been recently discharged. Military spouses may also be eligible for expedited option of applying for US citizenship while stationed overseas.

To the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services or USCIS, for certificate of citizenship, the Form N-600 should be submitted. It is an application to receive a proof of U.S. Citizenship that was acquired at birth or after birth (derived) through an U.S. Citizen parent, which is a good way to evidence citizenship in the long run because passports expire.