This guide focuses on the people who are eligible to start the naturalization process in the United States. While some are born into citizenship, others choose it through a long and detailed legal process.
The background: What is naturalization?
Naturalization is the legal process through which a non-U.S. citizen voluntarily becomes a U.S. citizen after meeting federal requirements.
- Citizenship at birth is typically granted to people born in the United States or born abroad to U.S. citizen parents who meet certain legal requirements.
- Citizens by choice are those who go through the naturalization process.
The first step: The green card
Before applying for citizenship, a person must first become a lawful permanent resident (LPR). This is more commonly known as having a green card.
The three main paths to a green card:
While there are several legal pathways, these are the three most common. Other options exist but are less commonly encountered in everyday community settings.
- Family: Sponsored by a relative who is a citizen or green card holder.
- Work: Sponsored by an employer due to specific job skills or a professional role.
- Safety: Seeking refugee or asylum status because their home country is unsafe (e.g., fleeing persecution, war, or serious threats based on factors such as political beliefs, identity, or conflict conditions).
The waiting period: Timing and rules
Holding a green card is just the beginning of the naturalization process; there are then many timing requirements a person must comply with before they can apply for naturalization.
- The 5-year rule: The standard waiting period for most green card holders.
- The 3-year shortcut: Available only to those married to a U.S. citizen.
- Physical presence: The person must be physically present in the U.S. for at least half of the waiting period (e.g., 30 months out of 5 years).
- Continuous residence: The person must maintain the U.S. as the primary home; living permanently abroad can result in losing a green card.
There are many other requirements that must be met within the naturalization process, but these are the criteria that must exist before that journey begins.
Policy context: The rules have shifted
U.S. immigration policy is not static. In recent months, there have been changes to certain criteria and how they are met, depending on federal administration guidance.
- National security: Background checks and eligibility may be more rigorous depending on global safety concerns.
- Enforcement climate: Enforcement activity and fear can sometimes create barriers that make it harder for some immigrants to attend appointments or seek services.
- Program pauses: Some pathways, such as the Diversity Immigrant Visa, are paused or limited by the current administration.
Why this matters to Welcomers
Understanding the “who” before the naturalization process begins helps us understand the “why” behind a new neighbor’s experience.
- Obtaining citizenship is not a quick process; becoming a naturalized citizen often comes at the end of a 5-10 year journey.
- Knowing where someone is in the process allows community members to provide better resources and engagement.
- Every new citizen brings a unique story; understanding what goes on behind their story helps us better understand their path.
