An Introduction to Naturalization

1. An Introduction to Naturalization How to become a U.S. Citizen

2. Benefits of Citizenship • Right to Vote • Get a US Passport • Apply for some jobs in the government • Bring close family members to the US • Expansion of Benefits • You can never be deported

3. Eligibility – Who can apply for citizenship? • Be at least 18 years old • Be a permanent resident of the US for at least 5 years • Speak, read and write basic English • Pass a Civics test on US History and Government • Have good moral character • Take an Oath of Allegiance to the US

4. Good Moral Character? • No problems with the police* • No drug or alcohol problems • Always tell the truth when dealing with immigration or the government

5. Are There Exceptions to the Requirements? • Married to a US citizen – only wait 3 years to apply • 50+ years old and lived in the US at least 20 years – Waiver of English Requirement • 55+ years old and lived in the US at least 15 years – Waiver of English Requirement • 65+ years old – Shorter Civics test • Medical disability – Waiver of English and Civics Requirement

6. Citizenship Process • Fill out and send N-400 application • Fingerprints • Interview • Ceremony

7. Cost and Documents Required • Fee: $680.00 – Fee waiver for low income applicants • 2 “passport style” photos • Copy of “green card” • Copies of other documents as needed

8. What happens at the interview? • Review your application – English Speaking Test • Reading Test • Writing Test • US History and Government Test

9. Reading and Writing English • Read 3 or 4 sentences from a list of sentences made up of vocabulary provided by USCIS • Write a sentence dictated by the interviewer from a list of sentences made up of USCIS English vocabulary; up to 3 sentences – need 1 good sentence to pass

10. Civics Test • Study 100 questions covering US History and Government • Oral exam at interview – 10 questions; need to get at least 6 correct

11. Pass or Fail? • You will be told at the interview if you passed – no waiting • Pass – You will be scheduled for a citizenship ceremony • Fail – You will be scheduled for a 2nd interview • Fail 2nd interview – You will need to reapply