Naturalization and
Citizenship
What is Naturalization?
Process by which immigrants may apply to become American citizens
Criteria for Naturalization
1. 5 years of residence w/in the US
2. Good Moral Character
3. Formal Oath to Support Constitution/ renounce foreign allegiance
4. Rejection of hereditary titles
5. Competent in English language (written, oral, verbal)
6. Excludes those advocate communism or plan to hurt US gov.
7. Excludes those who discriminate against race, sex, or marital status
What if you can’t meet English Requirements
Exemptions
1. Over 50 and lived in US at least 20 yrs (do have to take civics, but in
your language)
2. Over 55 lived in US permanent resident at least 15 yrs
3. Over 65 and lived resident totaling 20 years
4. Disabled (Form N-648) and not caused drug use
Ways to lose Naturalization
• Tell dept. of State you want to- they have procedures
• Voluntarily perform act that harm US
• declaring allegiance to foreign state
• serving in foreign forces, leaving US during wartime
• leaving country and seeking benefits in another while residing for 3
yrs past age of 22/ etc…)
The Green Card: Path to Citizenship
• What it is Identification card shows immigrants holds status as
lawful permanent resident (LPR)
5 Areas of Preference for Granting Green Cards
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Family sponsored (relatives are citizens)
Employment preference for those needed w/ skilled jobs
Diversity- those w/ low country quotas
Refugees
Those already granted political Asylum
Authorized and reside in US and travel abroad.
~ 5 years apply for citizenship
• Their spouse can after 3 years
• Asylum after 4
Benefits of becoming a Citizen
• Voting
• Bringing family members into the US (permanently)
• Obtaining citizenship for children born abroad
• Traveling w/ a US passport (get assistance from US gov. overseas)
• Eligible for Federal jobs
• Become elected official
• Showing patriotism
Responsibilities: Oath to…
• Give up prior allegiance to any country
• Swear allegiance to US
• Support/ defend Constitution
• Serve country when required
• Jury duty
• Etc…