- Processing your Application for Naturalization (Form N-400 processing time): 14.5 months (average)
- Attending your biometrics appointment: 0 months additional
- Attending your citizenship interview and exam: 4 months additional (average)
- Receiving a decision on your application: 0–4 months additional
How long do you have to live in the US before becoming a citizen?
While five years is the amount of time that you need have been a permanent resident of the United States to become a US Citizen, it is not accurate to say that it will take you five years to become a US Citizen.
What is the true cost of becoming an US citizen?
The current naturalization fee for a U.S. citizenship application is $725. That total includes $640 for application processing and $85 for biometrics services, both of which are nonrefundable, regardless of whether the U.S. government approves or rejects an application.
How difficult is it to become an US citizen?
There are several ways to get one:
- Be related to a US citizen either by blood or by marriage
- Have a job offer from a U.S. employer, work on H1B visa for a few years then have the employer sponsor you for a GC
- Be a refugee
- Win a diversity lottery
- Have extraudinary abilities in science, arts or sports
- Be an investor who invests $1m (if memory serves) in the US
How long before you can apply for US citizenship?
To become a U.S. citizen, you must: Have had a Permanent Resident (Green) Card for at least five years, or for at least three years if you’re filing as the spouse of a U.S. citizen. You must renew your Permanent Resident Card before applying for citizenship if: Your card will expire within six months of applying, or.
How long does the US citizenship process take?
To become a U.S. citizen, you must: Have had a Permanent Resident (Green) Card for at least five years, or for at least three years if you're filing as the spouse of a U.S. citizen.
How long does it take to become a U.S. citizen in 2022?
0:001:20How Long Does It Take to Get U.S. Citizenship After Applying? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipHow long does it take to get us citizenship after applying april 2022 it currently takes around 14MoreHow long does it take to get us citizenship after applying april 2022 it currently takes around 14 months for the u.s government to process citizenship applications.
How long does it take to become a U.S. citizen with a green card?
If you're a green card holder with no special circumstances, you can apply for United States citizenship at least five years after obtaining your green card. You also must have physically lived in the U.S. for at least 30 months (two-and-a-half years) out of those five years.
What is the fastest way to become a U.S. citizen?
The fastest way to become a U.S. citizen is to be born in the United States. How long do you have to live in the US to become a citizen? You may qualify for naturalization and become a U.S. citizen if you have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years.
What are the 5 requirements to become a U.S. citizen?
Be able to read, write, and speak basic English; Demonstrate good moral character; Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government; Demonstrate a loyalty to the principles of the U.S. Constitution; and.
Can you travel while waiting for citizenship?
You may travel to another country, including your home country, provided no other legal impediment precludes you from doing so. However, if a trip lasts longer than 180 days, USCIS may determine that you have not continuously resided in the United States and therefore are ineligible for naturalization.
Can I stay on green card forever?
Although some Permanent Resident Cards, commonly known as Green Cards, contain no expiration date, most are valid for 10 years. If you have been granted conditional permanent resident status, the card is valid for 2 years. It is important to keep your card up-to-date.
How hard is it to become a U.S. citizen?
The U.S. immigration system can be extremely difficult to navigate and the application process to become a citizen alone can take a year or longer. Generally speaking, people applying for citizenship must successfully pass six stages or steps.
How much does it cost to become a U.S. citizen in 2021?
$725$640. (Add the $85 biometric fee for a total of $725, where applicable. See exceptions below.) If you file your Form N-400 online, you may pay your fee online.
What are the 4 ways to become a U.S. citizen?
The four routes available include; citizenship by Naturalization, Citizenship by Marriage, citizenship through your parents and citizenship through the military. The U.S citizenship application process is complex, with each route having its own set of specific requirements.
What are the 4 types of citizenship?
Determining factorsCitizenship by family (jus sanguinis). ... Citizenship by birth (jus soli). ... Citizenship by marriage (jus matrimonii). ... Naturalization. ... Citizenship by investment or Economic Citizenship. ... Excluded categories.
Does the US recognize dual citizenship?
Does the United States allow dual citizenship? Yes, practically speaking. The U.S. government does not require naturalized U.S. citizens to relinquish citizenship in their country of origin.
Why is USCIS taking so long to process 2022?
The reasons for these delays are twofold: (1) the COVID19 pandemic impacted the efficiency and productivity of USCIS and all government functions, including mail delivery, and (2) the Trump Administration delayed processing of visa petitions as a way to reduce the number of legal immigrants entering the United States.
How much is it to become a U.S. citizen in 2022?
$725How Much Will It Cost To Become A U.S. Citizen? As of July 2022, the total application fee for naturalization is $725. This fee consists of the processing fee of $640 and the biometrics fee of $85. The USCIS does not refund these filing fees regardless of the outcome of the naturalization application.
How long does it take USCIS to make a decision after interview 2022?
Technically, the USCIS has to provide you with a decision on your naturalization application within 120 days of your naturalization interview. In a green card application, the USCIS is supposed to provide you with an official notification of their decision within 30 days of your interview.
How much does it cost to apply for citizenship in 2022?
$1,170. You may pay the fee with a money order, personal check, or cashier's check. When filing at a USCIS Lockbox facility, you may also pay by credit card using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions. If you pay by check, you must make your check payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
How long does it take for USCIS to approve a naturalization application?
Otherwise, USCIS will have 120 days (four months) from the date of your citizenship interview and exam to send you its decision in writing. More specifically, you’ll receive Form N-652 (officially called the “Notice of Examination Results”).
What is biometrics appointment?
“Biometrics” is just a technical term for your fingerprints, plus photos and/or signature. USCIS typically schedules the required biometrics appointment about one month after they receive your U.S. citizenship application. You’ll receive an appointment letter (Form I-797C, officially called the “Notice of Action”) from USCIS specifying when and where your fingerprints, photos, and signature will be collected. These will be used to verify your identity. USCIS will also forward your fingerprints to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to conduct a background check.
How long does it take to get citizenship in 2021?
The national average processing time for naturalization (citizenship) applications is 14.5 months, as of June, 2021. But that’s just the application processing wait time (see “ Understanding USCIS Processing Times ” below). The overall naturalization process involves more steps and a longer citizenship timeline.
How long does it take for USCIS to send you a letter of citizenship?
Otherwise, USCIS will have 120 days (four months) from the date of your citizenship interview and exam to send you its decision in writing. More specifically, you’ll receive Form N-652 (officially called the “Notice of Examination Results”). You can expect one of three outcomes: 1.
How long does it take to get a letter from USCIS if you are denied citizenship?
If you believe you deserved to be approved for U.S. citizenship, you may file an appeal (request a hearing with a USCIS officer) within 30 days of receiving the denial letter.
How often does USCIS send a letter?
USCIS will send you a letter — only once — with the date and location of your interview, as well as a list of any documents that you must bring. For a successful interview, make sure that you: Update your mailing address (if it’s changed since you filed your application) to avoid missing your appointment.
What documents do I need to send to USCIS?
citizenship application and supporting documents to USCIS kicks off the process. The faster you can collect supporting documentation — for example, a photocopy of your green card (Form I-551, officially called the “Permanent Resident Card”) — the sooner you can send these to USCIS, which can then begin to review your application.
How many appointments are there during the naturalization process?
For most applicants, there are three significant appointments during the naturalization process that help determine how long it takes to become a U.S. citizen.
How long does it take to get an I-797C?
First, you’ll need to find the I-797C, Notice of Action that arrived approximately two weeks after filing Form N-400. This document is also known as the receipt notice. You’ll need to obtain information from this letter to follow up on your case:
Is there a backlog in USCIS?
There is typically a backlog of cases that each USCIS office is working on. If the office that is processing your case has a heavy workload, processing times could be extended. Some offices are just busier than others. Unfortunately, this is something that the applicant can’t control.
Is it normal to be anxious while waiting for citizenship?
It’s natural to be a little anxious while waiting through the citizenship process. While you’re waiting, you may want to start preparing for the citizenship test and interview. But how long is too long? There is a way to determine if you’re outside of the normal processing time.
Do you have a question?
Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They'll get you the answer or let you know where to find it.
What is a consulate report of birth abroad?
If your birth was recorded before your 18th birthday, the Embassy or consulate issued your parent (s) a document that is proof of your U.S. citizenship. This document is known as a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA or Form FS-240).
What does dual citizenship mean?
Dual citizenship (or dual nationality) means a person may be a citizen of the United States and of another country at the same time. U.S. law does not require a person to choose one citizenship or another. If you're a citizen of another country, contact that country's embassy or consulate for information about its: Laws.
What is the citizenship of a person born abroad?
Territories. You are a U.S. citizen if: You have a birth certificate issued by a U.S. state. You were born in a U.S. territory and have a birth certificate issued by that territory.
What is the process of becoming a citizen?
Becoming a citizen through naturalization is a process in which a non-U.S. citizen voluntarily becomes an American citizen. U.S. citizens: Owe their allegiance to the United States.
How to find out if you have dual nationality?
For information on dual nationality from the point of view of another country, contact that country's embassy or consulate.
What is a certificate of citizenship?
Certificates of Citizenship and Naturalization are proof of your U.S. citizenship.
Why Does Getting U.S. Citizenship Take So Long?
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) receives many applications each year and takes time to review each one carefully. Because of the high scrutiny they have for each application, it can take many months before they finally get to yours. The U.S. citizenship process also includes a testing process and an interview segment.
How Much Does It Cost to Apply for U.S. Citizenship?
Silhouettes of a family holding American flags. The U.S. citizenship process can take a long time to complete. Find out why and what steps you must take to apply.
What Are the Application Steps for U.S. Citizenship?
The steps for applying are simple. What makes them hard is knowing how to get them done correctly. Here is a basic timeline of the U.S. citizenship application process and how long it generally takes.
Are There Ways to Speed Up the Application Process?
Some people believe they have that one “secret” or “trick” to make the citizenship process faster. The truth is, there is no real way to speed up the process in any meaningful way. While citizens who sponsor family members can potentially get fast-tracked, you’re still looking at several months of wait time.
How to check the status of citizenship application?
Yes, there is. You can check your processing times by going to the USCIS website. On it, they provide a tool that can help you track the status of your application and generally see how long the U.S. citizenship application process will take currently.
How many questions are asked on the USCIS history test?
The USCIS publishes a study guide of 100 history questions that you can study before the test. The USCIS officer will pick the 10 questions for your test from these 100 questions. You might be exempt from the history test if you are over a certain age or have been a green card holder for a certain amount of time.
What is the purpose of a USCIS interview?
The purpose of the interview is for the USCIS officer to decide whether you qualify to become a U.S. citizen. You might be asked questions about your eligibility for U.S. citizenship. For example, this could include questions about the relative or employer who qualified you to apply for your green card.
What happens when you get a biometrics appointment?
During this appointment, you will have your fingerprints, photograph, and signature taken so that USCIS can run background checks and verify the information you submitted on your application.
Why use Road to Status?
If you would like to extra certain, using Road to Status’ software to check for errors while it helps you complete your application can help provide an extra level of safety.
How long does it take to get a naturalization certificate?
Once you have passed the tests and the interview, you will be scheduled within approximately 6 months to take part in a Naturalization Ceremony where you will be sworn in as a U.S. Citizen.
What happens if you make a mistake in USCIS?
If a mistake is found in your application by USCIS, it will be returned to you and you will need to fix the mistakes and re-apply. This can significantly delay the completion of your process, significantly increase the cost of your process, and this can potentially happen multiple times with one application (which would significantly extend the amount of time that it will take to become a US citizen).
How long do you have to be a resident to get citizenship?
Missing an appointment or interview can delay your path to citizenship (and sometimes can result in a complete denial of your application). While five years is the amount of time that you need have been a permanent resident of the United States to become ...
How long does it take to update your address?
You must update your address within 10 days of moving, and include your N-400 case number so that all of your documents will get to the right address. Also, check your bank records to make sure that all of the correct fees went through when they were supposed to.
How long does it take to hear back from a job application?
Keep in mind, that while it can take weeks or months to hear back about your application’s progress, even more time can be added to the process if there are mistakes in your information on the form.
How long do you have to stay in the US after getting a green card?
This is where time and patience come in. Five years need to pass, with no breaking of the rules, before moving onto the next step.
How much does it cost to get a N-400?
This means filling in the N-400 form along with all necessary documentation and your $725 fee for the application and biometrics. This is no small sum of money. Immigrants are advised to start putting money aside for this as soon as they can to avoid delays and disappointment.
What is the difference between a medic and an athlete?
These all sound similar because they are. An athlete with a scholarship could be a professional or someone with exceptional abilities. A medic could be a priority worker or someone with an advanced degree. This is where it is important to research green card options more carefully.
Do children of immigrants get citizenship?
This tends to relate to the children of immigrants. Children that live with a parent that obtains citizenship during their residency in the US can achieve the same rights. The benefits that are given to the mother or father (or both) pass down through derivation. A bonus here is that kids don’t have to go through the same naturalization process.
Is citizenship a birthright?
Citizenship is a birthright for some Americans while others have to take the longer route to get there. So how does the process differ for those born in the US and those that come here in later life?
Can you leave a comment on Constitutionus?
Leaving a comment is also the best way to reach the management team of ConstitutionUS.com . If it is a private message, then it won’t be published.
What to expect if USCIS approves N-400?
What to expect: If USCIS approved your Form N-400 in step 7, you may be able to participate in a naturalization ceremony on the same day as your interview. If a same day naturalization ceremony is unavailable, USCIS will mail you a notification with the date, time, and location of your scheduled ceremony.
Is the 2020 Civics test still available?
USCIS will no longer offer the 2020 civics test at the initial interview, but will continue to provide study materials for the 2020 test for those applicants who are eligible to choose between the 2008 or 2020 civics test at their re-exam or N-336 hearing. For more information about the 2020 civics test, visit The 2020 Version ...
