Naturalization is the process of becoming a citizen of the United States if you were born outside of the United States. In most cases, you can become a citizen if you meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
• Be able to read, write, and speak basic English (depending on age).
• Have good moral character.
• Be a permanent resident for at least five years immediately prior to the date you file Form N-400*.
• Demonstrate that you have been physically present in the United States for at least 30 months of the five years immediately before the date you file Form N-400.

*** There are exceptions to the five-year requirement for those seeking to apply for U.S. citizenship under certain circumstances. If you are married to a U.S. citizen, you may be eligible to apply after only three years of lawful permanent residency. Additionally, individuals serving in the U.S. military might qualify for expedited or waived naturalization processes under certain conditions. Each of these pathways has specific requirements and stipulations