What Are the Requirements for Obtaining Naturalization?
You may qualify for naturalization if you have been a permanent U.S. resident for at least 5 years, or you have been married to a U.S. citizen for at least 3 years, (thus qualifying to file as a spouse of a U.S. citizen), or you have qualifying service in the U.S. armed forces.
Providing you meet one of those qualifications, the basic requirements for obtaining naturalization are:
-Having physically lived in the United States for either 2 1/2 years as a permanent resident or 1 1/2 years if married to a U.S. citizen,
-Having not spent more than 12 months (of your 5 years or 3 years) outside the U.S.,
-Having resided at your current address for at least 3 months,
-Being at least 18 years old,
-Being of good moral character,
-Being able to speak, read and write basic English,
-Being able to pass a test showing basic knowledge of U.S. history and government,
-Agreeing to support the Constitution of the United States, and
-Taking an oath of allegiance to the United States.