Naturalization can be a long, drawn-out process, but navigating it successfully provides many benefits to new citizens, including becoming eligible for US passports. Traveling with US passports allows y0u to get assistance from the US government if you are traveling overseas and you need help.
Depending on your specific situation, the requirements for naturalization can vary. Specific requirements for citizenship and more information about the process can be found here. However, here’s a brief rundown on how the process works for most people:
- You must live in the US as a permanent resident for at least 5 years. If you are married to and live with a US citizen, the requirement drops down to only 3 years.
- You must be physically present in the US for at least 30 months out of that 5 years, or for at least 18 months out of 3 years if you’re married to a US citizen.
- You must live in a US state or USCIS district for at least 3 months before you apply for citizenship.
- You must pass an English test and a civics test.
- You must demonstrate “good moral character” by not committing certain crimes or engaging in certain behaviors.
- You must take the Oath of Allegiance, swearing loyalty to the US Constitution and the country as a whole in a public naturalization ceremony.
Once you take the Oath of Allegiance, you’re officially a US citizen. You’ll get a Certificate of Naturalization, which can be submitted as proof of citizenship for your passport application.
When applying for a passport, an expediting company like RushMyPassport.com can help make the process easier and get your passport to you quickly-sometimes in as little as 24 hours!
We offer a variety of different processing options to make sure you have your passport when you need it. Apply for your US passports today!