How to Become a U.S. Citizen

Johnson and Masumi • October 28, 2021

Finding out how to become a U.S. citizen can seem like an overwhelming task. To apply for American citizenship, one must first apply for naturalization. This process involves completing Form N-400 and filing it with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Before applying, it is important for an applicant to make sure that he or she meets all eligibility requirements. There are also, however, some exceptions and accommodations that may be made depending on an applicant’s special circumstances.

Requirements for Naturalization

All the following general requirements must be met to become a U.S. citizen through Naturalization:

You are at least 18 years of age at the time of filing (except active-duty
members of the U.S. armed forces)
You are a permanent resident of the U.S. for a required period of time
You have lived within the state or USCIS district where you can claim
residence for at least 3 months prior to filing the application
You have demonstrated physical presence within the U.S. for a required
period of time
You have demonstrated continuous residence for a required period of
time
You can demonstrate good moral character
You can demonstrate an attachment to the principles and ideals of the U.S.
Constitution
You possess the ability to read, write and speak basic English
You possess a general understanding of U.S. history and government (civic
knowledge)
You take an oath of allegiance to the United States of America

One may also qualify for naturalization through other paths if he/she does not qualify through meeting the above requirements. For instance, an individual may already be a U.S. citizen if their biological or adoptive parents were naturalized before the individual reached 18 years of age.

The Naturalization Test

An individual who wishes to become a U.S. citizen must take an English and civics test to fulfill one of the requirements for becoming fully naturalized. Those who qualify for an exemption are not required to take the test.

Oral Test

A United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer will determine the quality of an applicant’s spoken English during their eligibility interview from the naturalization application Form N-400.

Reading Test

An applicant must correctly read aloud one of three English sentences to demonstrate their ability to read and understand English. The USCIS compiles a list of common reading test vocabulary words to help applicants study for the reading portion of the naturalization test.

Writing Test

An applicant must correctly write one of three English sentences to demonstrate their abilities to write in English. The USCIS compiles a list of vocabulary words to help applicants study for the written portion of the naturalization test.

Civics Test

The naturalization test contains 100 civics questions. During a naturalization interview, the applicant is asked a maximum of 10 questions out of a list of 100 questions. The applicant must correctly answer 6 out of the 10 question set to pass the civics portion of the test.

To prepare for the Civics or English test, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services offers free online study materials here:

Dual Citizenship

Dual citizenship, or dual nationality, occurs when a person is simultaneously a national of two different countries. In the United States, those eligible for dual nationality are not required to choose one nationality over another. A United States citizen is also allowed to naturalize in another country without giving up their U.S. citizenship. Dual citizens owe civic allegiance to both countries in which they are a national, and are therefore required to abide by the laws of both countries.

Attending Naturalization Ceremony

If your Application for Naturalization is approved, a naturalization ceremony will be scheduled for you, where you will pledge the Oath of Allegiance, the final step in becoming an official United States citizen. You will be required to attend either a judicial ceremony, in which the oath is administered by the court or an administrative ceremony, where a USCIS officer will administer the oath.

Benefits of U.S. Citizenship

Secure the right to vote
Reunite family in the U.S.
Obtain citizenship for children born abroad
Ability to travel without restriction across U.S. borders
Collect U.S. federal benefits
Gain federal employment
Gain elected representation in U.S. government

Get Legal Help on Your Path to Citizenship

The naturalization process can take some time and be tricky, especially to someone who doesn’t have a firm grasp of the English language or U.S. immigration law. If you are interested in applying for U.S. citizenship and want to explore your options, contact Johnson & Masumi P.C. online or by phone for an initial consultation with our immigration attorneys. They have the necessary experience to guide you through the process of obtaining full U.S. citizenship.

Categories: Naturalization

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Can ICE Stop You on the Street?

May 19, 2026

Encounters with immigration officers can be stressful and confusing. Many people wonder whether immigration agents can legally stop someone on the street and ask questions. Understanding your rights during these encounters is important. Agents from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) may approach individuals in public spaces. However, simply being stopped by an officer does not automatically mean you are required to answer questions. In many situations, people have the right to remain silent. If an immigration officer approaches you on the street, you have the right to ask if you are being detained or if you are free to leave. If the officer says you are free to go, you may calmly walk away. You do not have to answer questions about where you were born, your immigration status, or how you entered the United States. It is also important to remember that you do not have to consent to a search of your belongings unless the officer has legal authority to conduct one. Officers may attempt to continue the conversation, but remaining calm and respectful while asserting your rights can help prevent unnecessary complications. People who are not U.S. citizens should avoid providing false documents or false statements. Providing incorrect information can lead to serious immigration consequences. If you experience an encounter with immigration officers, try to remember important details such as the location, time, and what was said during the interaction. Sharing this information with an immigration attorney can help you understand whether your rights were respected. Knowing your rights can help you stay calm and make informed decisions if you ever encounter immigration officers in a public space. If you or a loved one needs immigration guidance, our team is here to help. (703) 506-1400

Witnessing an ICE Detention: Your Presence Matters

May 19, 2026

Seeing someone detained by immigration officers can be alarming. Many people want to help but are unsure what they are allowed to do without putting themselves at risk. The first thing to understand is that simply observing and documenting a public encounter is generally legal. Community members can play an important role by acting as witnesses. Calm observation can sometimes discourage misconduct and ensure that the situation is handled properly. If you witness an encounter involving agents from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, try to remain calm and keep a safe distance. Avoid interfering physically with officers, as this can create legal problems for you. If it is safe to do so, you may document the situation. Recording video or taking notes can help preserve important details about the interaction. Pay attention to the location, the time, how many officers are present, and whether they show identification or a warrant. Witnesses can also help by reminding individuals of their rights in a calm and respectful way. For example, you may remind someone that they have the right to remain silent or that they can ask to speak with an attorney. After the incident, documenting what you saw can be helpful. Write down everything you remember as soon as possible. This information may later help attorneys or community organizations understand what happened. Supporting community members during stressful situations does not require confrontation. Sometimes the most powerful support is simply being present, informed, and prepared to document what you see. Unsure about your rights or next steps? Contact our office at (703) 506-1400 .

How a U.S. Citizen Can Exit an ICE Encounter

May 19, 2026

U.S. citizens may occasionally be questioned by immigration officers during enforcement operations. Although citizens cannot be deported, these encounters can still be stressful and confusing. If an immigration officer approaches you, the first step is to remain calm. Ask a clear and simple question: “Am I being detained, or am I free to go?” If the officer says you are free to leave, you may calmly walk away. You do not need to continue answering questions. Agents from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement sometimes question individuals in areas where enforcement operations are taking place. Even in those situations, U.S. citizens still have constitutional protections. You are not required to answer questions about where you were born, your immigration status, or where you are going. If you choose to respond, you may simply state that you are a U.S. citizen and prefer not to answer additional questions. In some cases, officers may ask for identification. While citizens may carry identification for practical reasons, the law generally does not require U.S. citizens to carry proof of citizenship at all times. If the situation becomes uncomfortable or unclear, it is best to politely repeat your question about whether you are free to leave. Remaining respectful while asserting your rights can help prevent the situation from escalating. If you believe your rights were violated during an encounter, write down everything you remember after the interaction ends. Details such as officer names, vehicle numbers, and the location of the encounter may be useful later. Understanding your rights allows you to navigate these situations confidently and safely. Your rights matter. If you need legal support, contact our office at (703) 506-1400 .

The Interview Question That Can Impact Your Immigration Case

May 19, 2026

Immigration interviews often include detailed questions about an applicant’s history in the United States. One question that frequently causes concern is whether the applicant has ever worked in the United States without authorization. This question can be extremely important because unauthorized employment may affect eligibility for certain immigration benefits. The impact depends on the type of application, the immigration category, and the applicant’s overall history. For example, some immigration categories allow limited forgiveness for unauthorized employment, while others do not. In certain cases, working without authorization can complicate an application for permanent residence. The most important thing during any immigration interview is honesty. Providing false information or hiding facts can lead to far more serious consequences than the underlying issue itself. Misrepresentation can result in application denial and long term immigration consequences. Applicants should review their immigration history carefully before attending an interview. This includes understanding past employment, periods of unauthorized work, and how those details appear in previous applications or records. Preparation is key. Working with an experienced immigration attorney can help applicants understand how specific facts may affect their case. An attorney can also help prepare clients to answer difficult questions clearly and truthfully. Immigration interviews are designed to verify information and evaluate eligibility. Being prepared and honest can help applicants navigate the process with greater confidence and clarity. Every immigration case is different. Speak with our team directly at (703) 506-1400 .

Three Common ICE Interview Tactics and How to Respond

May 19, 2026

During enforcement encounters, immigration officers may use certain questioning techniques to encourage people to speak. Understanding these tactics can help individuals protect their rights and avoid making statements that could affect their immigration case. Agents from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement are trained investigators. Their goal is often to gather information quickly. People who are unfamiliar with their rights may feel pressured to answer questions immediately. One common tactic is casual conversation. Officers may start with friendly questions such as where you are from or how long you have lived in the area. These questions may seem harmless, but the answers could reveal information about immigration status. Another tactic involves presenting documents or asking someone to confirm personal details. Officers may ask people to verify their name, address, or place of birth. These questions can lead to additional inquiries about immigration history. A third tactic is urgency. Officers may suggest that cooperating quickly will make the situation easier or faster. This can make people feel pressured to speak without thinking about the consequences. It is important to remember that many individuals have the right to remain silent during encounters with immigration officers. Politely stating that you choose not to answer questions and wish to speak with an attorney is a lawful response. Remaining calm, respectful, and informed can make a significant difference during these situations. Knowing your rights allows you to protect yourself while avoiding unnecessary conflict. Staying informed & prepared can make a difference. If you need legal guidance, contact us at (703) 506-1400 .