There are four ways to obtain U.S. citizenship:
- Citizenship by birth in the U.S.
- Citizenship through derivation (when a parent naturalizes, a child may “derive” U.S. citizenship)
- Citizenship through acquisition (“acquires” citizenship if born outside the U.S. to U.S. parent)
- Citizenship through naturalization
There are several requirements that must be met prior to a permanent resident applying for U.S. citizenship. Generally, those requirements are:
- Must be 18 years of age
- Permanent resident for 5 years (unless in the U.S. Armed Forces or 3 years permanent residency if married to U.S. citizen for 3 years)
- Continuous residence in the U.S. for 5 years
- Physical presence in the U.S. for at least 30 months (2 ½ years) out of the 5 years immediately preceding the date of filing the N-400
- Show that you have lived for at least 3 months in the state where you apply
- Be able to read, write, and speak basic English (exemption may apply)
- Have a basic understanding of U.S. history and government (exemption may apply)
- Good moral character