What Is Naturalization?
Naturalization is the legal process by which individuals not born in the United States—and who do not otherwise have a claim to U.S. citizenship—can become U.S. citizens by filing an application on their own behalf.
Generally, eligible applicants must be at least 18 years old, be a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder), and meet several additional requirements under U.S. immigration law.
Why Should You Consider Becoming a U.S. Citizen?
While lawful permanent residents enjoy many rights in the United States, U.S. citizenship offers expanded legal, political, and economic benefits, along with important responsibilities.
Rights of a U.S. Citizen
- The right to vote in official U.S. elections (federal, state, and local).
- Ability to sponsor certain foreign-born family members for immigration benefits.
- Ability to obtain citizenship for one’s children, even if they are born abroad.
- The right to hold a U.S. passport and access consular assistance abroad.
- Eligibility for federal jobs, including those requiring security clearances.
- Eligibility to hold elected public office (except President or Vice President).
- Protection from deportation.
Responsibilities of a U.S. Citizen
- Taking the Oath of Allegiance, renouncing allegiance to other countries.
- Supporting and defending the U.S. Constitution and obeying U.S. laws.
- Serving the country when required, including possible military or civil service.
- Fulfilling civic duties such as jury service and participating in democratic processes.
Basic Eligibility for Naturalization
To qualify for U.S. citizenship through naturalization, applicants must:
- Have been a lawful permanent resident for at least five years (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen), with no prolonged absences (generally no trips outside the U.S. for six months or longer).
- Demonstrate good moral character (e.g., no serious criminal convictions).
- Show basic knowledge of English and U.S. civics (study materials are available through USCIS).
- Take the Oath of Allegiance, affirming loyalty to the United States.
Naturalization and Integration
Becoming a citizen is more than a legal status—it is a step toward full political and social integration into American society. Citizenship allows immigrants to become fully engaged members of their communities and opens access to rights and opportunities that support long-term stability and inclusion.
Important Update: Naturalization Fee Reduction (Effective April 2024)
USCIS now offers a reduced filing fee for Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) based on household income.
Eligibility for the Reduced Fee:
- Household income must be above 150% but not more than 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines at the time of filing.
- Applicants must submit Form I-942, Request for Reduced Fee, with their N-400 application, along with the required documentation.
Fees:
- Standard N-400 fee: $760
- Reduced N-400 fee: $320
- Biometrics fee (not reduced): $85
- Total if eligible for reduced fee: $405
- Applicants age 75 or older are exempt from the biometrics fee, reducing the total to $320.
2024 Federal Poverty Guidelines for Reduced Fee Eligibility (for 48 contiguous states and D.C.):
| Household Size | Fee Waiver (≤149%) | Reduced Fee (150–400%) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | ≤ $22,440 | $22,441 – $60,240 |
| 2 | ≤ $30,456 | $30,457 – $81,760 |
| 3 | ≤ $38,472 | $38,473 – $103,280 |
| 4 | ≤ $46,488 | $46,489 – $124,800 |
| 5 | ≤ $54,505 | $54,506 – $146,320 |
| 6 | ≤ $62,521 | $62,522 – $167,840 |
| 7 | ≤ $70,537 | $70,538 – $189,360 |
| 8 | ≤ $78,553 | $78,554 – $210,880 |
For households with more than 8 people, add $5,380 per person to the base guideline and calculate accordingly.
Higher Cost-of-Living Adjustments:
- Alaska: Household of 1: $23,925 – $31,900
- Hawaii: Slightly higher income thresholds also apply.
Special Note for German Citizens
If you are a citizen of Germany, please be aware that accepting a non-EU/EEA nationality, such as U.S. citizenship, may historically have impacted your German citizenship status—either requiring pre-retention permission or resulting in automatic loss of German nationality.
⚠️ This process has recently changed as of late June 2024.
Please consult with me or another attorney familiar with German nationality law before proceeding with U.S. naturalization, to ensure compliance with German citizenship regulations.
Contact me for more information or to discuss your specific situation, including eligibility, fee reduction, or dual citizenship considerations.
Last Revision: March 2025.