What is Naturalization? History, Requirements, Benefits & Process

Naturalization is the legal process by which a non-national of a country becomes a citizen after birth. In the United States, over 800,000 people became naturalized citizens in 2024, according to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Naturalization allows individuals to fully participate in civic life, vote, and access government services. The process involves meeting specific requirements, submitting applications, and passing tests on citizenship and language.

Q1: What is Naturalization?

Naturalization is the legal act or process by which a non-national of a country acquires the nationality of that country after birth. This process is voluntary and requires approval by legal authorities. Naturalized citizens have the same rights and responsibilities as those who acquired citizenship at birth, except for presidential eligibility in some countries. The process usually involves submitting an application, passing a language and civics test, and taking an oath of allegiance.

Q2: Who are Naturalized Citizens?

Naturalized citizens are people who were not born in a country but became citizens through a legal process. They have the same rights and responsibilities as citizens born in that country, such as voting, working, and living there. To become a naturalized citizen, a person usually lives in the country for several years, learns the language, passes a test, and promises to follow the country’s laws.

Q3: What is the History of Naturalization in the U.S.?

Naturalization in the United States dates back to the Naturalization Act of 1790, which established the first rules for acquiring citizenship. Over time, the requirements have changed to reflect evolving social and political norms. The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) of 1952 consolidated and updated naturalization laws, making the process more accessible to immigrants from diverse backgrounds. Today, the naturalization process is governed by USCIS and continues to evolve to meet the needs of a changing population.

Q4: What are the Requirements for Naturalization?

To be eligible for naturalization in the United States, applicants must meet several requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old and mentally competent.

• Have been a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) for at least five years, or three years if married to a U.S. citizen.

• Demonstrate good moral character and attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution.

• Pass an English language and civics test.

• Take an oath of allegiance to the United States.

Q5: What are the Benefits of Naturalization?

Naturalization provides numerous benefits that make a significant difference in the lives of new citizens. Here are the benefits of naturalization given below: 

• Right to Vote in Elections: Naturalized citizens can vote in federal, state, and local elections. This means they have a direct say in choosing leaders and influencing laws that affect their lives and communities.

• Eligibility for Federal Jobs and Government Benefits: Citizenship opens doors to many federal government jobs and career opportunities along with a wide range of government benefits, such as federal student aid, retirement programs, and security clearances.

• Ability to Travel with a U.S. Passport: As a citizen, you can travel internationally with a U.S. passport. This makes travel easier and allows access to consular assistance from U.S. embassies and consulates abroad. A U.S. passport also helps avoid visa requirements for many countries, making international trips smoother and more convenient.

• Protection from Deportation: Naturalized citizens cannot be deported from the United States, even if they commit a crime (with very rare exceptions).

• Right to Sponsor Family Members for Immigration: Citizens can sponsor certain family members, such as spouses, children, and parents, for immigration to the United States.

These benefits collectively empower naturalized citizens with greater opportunities, rights, and protections, enriching their lives and strengthening their connection to the United States.

Q6: What are the Steps in the Naturalization Process?

The naturalization process is the official way to become a U.S. citizen after birth. It involves several steps, each designed to ensure applicants meet all requirements and are ready to take on the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. Here are the genuine steps to follow:

• Step 1: Determine your eligibility for naturalization, making sure you meet age, residency, and other requirements.
• Step 2: Complete and submit Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, either online or by mail, along with the required fee and supporting documents.
• Step 3: Attend a biometrics appointment to have your fingerprints and photos taken for a background check.
• Step 4: Receive an interview notice from USCIS and prepare for your citizenship interview.
• Step 5: Attend your interview and take the English and civics tests as required.
• Step 6: If approved, receive a notice to attend the Oath of Allegiance ceremony.
• Step 7: Attend the naturalization ceremony and take the Oath of Allegiance to officially become a U.S. citizen.

Check Out | USCIS Citizenship Good Moral Character Rule Means for Applicants

Conclusion

Naturalization is a significant step for immigrants seeking to become citizens. The process involves meeting specific requirements, submitting applications, and passing tests on citizenship and language. Naturalized citizens enjoy the same rights and responsibilities as those who acquired citizenship at birth, making it a vital pathway to full participation in society.