If you meet these requirements, you could obtain US citizenship
Foreigners with a Green Card, who have lived in the USA for at least five years, may obtain US citizenship.
Foreign nationals can obtain U.S. citizenship through a process called naturalization. Individuals who hold a permanent resident card—commonly known as a green card—are eligible to apply for citizenship through this process.
In addition, several other groups may qualify for naturalization, including: people who have been married to a U.S. citizen and have held legal permanent resident status for at least three years; active-duty members or veterans of the U.S. military; and children of U.S. citizens.
However, the most common path to naturalized U.S. citizenship is through maintaining legal permanent resident status for a minimum of five years.
According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), most individuals who naturalized in fiscal year 2024 became eligible after holding a green card for at least five years. Still, all applicants must meet additional eligibility requirements beyond the residency period.
Requirements to obtain US citizenship if you have a Green Card
According to USCIS, in addition to demonstrating at least five years of lawful permanent residency, an individual must meet the following requirements to become a U.S. citizen through naturalization:
- Be at least 18 years old at the time of filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
- Demonstrate physical presence in the United States for at least 30 months out of the past five years.
- Have resided for at least three months in the state or USCIS district with jurisdiction over their place of residence.
- Be a person of good moral character.
- Show a commitment to the principles and ideals of the U.S. Constitution.
- Be able to read, write, and speak basic English.
- Possess a basic understanding of U.S. history, government, and civic principles.
- Take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States.
According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, these are the 10 steps to follow to obtain U.S. citizenship:
- Determine if you are already a U.S. citizen.
- Confirm your eligibility for naturalization.
- Prepare your N-400 form, Application for Naturalization.
- Submit an N-400 form and pay the fees.
- Attend your biometrics screening appointment, if applicable.
- Complete the interview.
- Receive the USCIS decision on your N-400 form.
- Receive a notice to take the Oath of Allegiance.
- Take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States.
- Understand American Citizenship.
To find out if you’re eligible for U.S. citizenship, you can use the USCIS Naturalization Eligibility Tool. This resource helps you assess whether you may qualify for naturalization. However, it does not guarantee that you will be granted citizenship. USCIS will make the final decision after reviewing your application and determining whether you meet all the eligibility requirements.
The benefits of American citizens
While green card holders enjoy many benefits, U.S. citizens gain several additional rights and advantages. These include the right to vote, the ability to run for public office, eligibility for federal employment and related benefits, and potential advantages under U.S. tax law.
Citizens are also protected from deportation and can more easily sponsor family members for green cards or citizenship.
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For more information about the naturalization process, visit the official website of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
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