Get involved
Becoming a U.S. citizen isn't easy.
It takes years of commitment, hundreds of pages of paperwork, and a civics exam that most native-born Americans couldn't pass on their first try.
That's why one person willing to help can make all the difference.
Becoming American isn't a moment—it's years of commitment, paperwork, interviews, and preparation. Although millions of lawful permanent residents are eligible to apply, only about 1 in 10 do each year. For many, the biggest barrier isn't determination. It's having someone to encourage them through the final steps.
Here’s how you can help.
Volunteer
Earning U.S. citizenship takes years of hard work, sacrifice, and commitment. As a Welcome.US Citizen Guide, you’ll support an aspiring American during the final stretch of that journey—helping them prepare for the civics test and citizenship interview, practice English, and build the confidence to succeed. On the long road to citizenship, one person can make all the difference.
Learn
What is the process to become a U.S. citizen? Becoming a U.S. citizen is more than a single form or a simple test. It’s a years-long journey requiring legal permanent residence, careful documentation, an interview, and a civics exam. Understanding the citizenship process helps us appreciate the commitment it takes—and why earning citizenship carries such deep meaning for those who earn it.
Support
People who pursue U.S. citizenship have chosen to follow one of the most demanding legal pathways in our immigration system. A little encouragement from fellow Americans can make a meaningful difference during the final stretch of that journey.
Did you know?
Most Americans agree. More than two-thirds of Americans say that legal immigration benefits this country. Join other Welcomers in supporting aspiring citizens who have followed the legal path to citizenship.
Ways to show support
Write a letter of encouragement
Send your message
Help with community integration by sharing your American experience
Share your experience
Donate
DonateConnect
One conversation can lead to one new volunteer—and one new volunteer can help an aspiring American reach citizenship. Help us spread the word by sharing this opportunity with your friends, family, workplace, or community.
Get support
Ready to take the next step toward U.S. citizenship? If you have a green card and are ready to take the next step, we can match you with a Citizen Guide. A Citizen Guide is a trained volunteer who will help you prepare for the citizenship exam: studying civics, practicing English, or walking through a practice citizenship interview. Free, online, and on your schedule.
One success story. Many more to come.
Lolav is a civil engineering student in Nashville, Tennessee, who once interpreted for ISIS survivors in northern Iraq. Through a program like the Citizen Guide program, Lolav was paired with Susie from Cape Cod, Massachusetts, to study and prepare for her citizenship exam. In April 2026, Lolav became a U.S. citizen, with Susie standing alongside her. Lolav earned her U.S. citizenship. Susie was there to help her reach the finish line. Across the country, thousands of aspiring Americans are working toward that same moment. One caring volunteer can help make it possible.
