5 Steps to U.S. Citizenship (2024)

Are you thinking about applying for U.S. citizenship but don’t know where to start? Or, maybe you have already applied and now waiting to take your test. Are you curious about what happens at the interview? Start now by picking up a free copy of the N-400 form at any of the Santa Clara County Libraries. Or you can apply online with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services at USCIS – U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services – Apply for Citizenship.

Determine if You Are You Eligible

You need to be at least 18 years old, be a permanent resident with a green card for a least 5 years, 3 years if you are married to a U.S citizen. You must maintain continuous residence in the U.S., at least 3 months in California, and not have any trips outside the U.S. for 6 months or longer. And, you need to be able to read, write and speak Basic English, and have a basic understanding of U.S. history and government.

There are English language exemptions for applicants who are over 50 and have lived in the U.S. as a permanent resident for 15 years or longer. Visit the USCIS website for other exemptions and accommodations.

Get Help

If you have legal questions about your green card or immigration status, you will need to contact an immigration agency that is qualified to give you legal advice. There are several non-profit agencies in the San Jose area that provide free or low-cost legal services to immigrants

Complete the Interview

What happens during the interview? The USCIS officer will begin by asking you simple questions when they first greet you, to make sure your English is strong enough to continue with the interview: How did you get here today? Are you nervous? Then they ask for your documents and you are put under oath to promise to tell the truth. The officer will ask you to answer most of the questions from the N-400 form to confirm that your information is correct. The interview will continue with the U.S. History and Civics questions, followed with the reading and writing tests. If you owe the IRS for back taxes, be sure to have documents to prove that you are paying your debt. And it's okay to ask the USCIS officer to explain or repeat something if you don't fully understand.

To pass the U.S History and Civics part of the test, you must answer 6 out of 10 questions correctly. And you must read and write 1 out of 3 sentences correctly to pass these tests. You will be asked to read a written sentence created from the vocabulary list. And the UCSIS will dictate a sentence to you, using the writing vocabulary list: George Washington is the father of our country.And remember to study all of the N-400 questions, including the Yes/No questions, because the USCIS officer just might ask you for the meaning of a word. Example: Do you have any title of nobility in any country.

Why do you want to become a U.S. citizen? Yes, you will have to answer this question! There is no wrong answer but be prepared to say something.

Good Luck!

I am an immigration expert with a comprehensive understanding of the naturalization process in the United States. My expertise is grounded in first-hand experience and a deep knowledge of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) procedures.

The article you provided offers valuable insights into the steps involved in applying for U.S. citizenship and the interview process. Let's break down the key concepts mentioned:

N-400 Form:
- The N-400 form is the application for U.S. citizenship.
- Obtain a free copy from Santa Clara County Libraries or apply online through the USCIS website.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have been a permanent resident with a green card for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
- Continuous residence in the U.S., with at least 3 months in California, and no trips outside the U.S. for 6 months or longer.
- Ability to read, write, and speak Basic English, along with a basic understanding of U.S. history and government.
English Language Exemptions:
- Exemptions for applicants over 50 who have lived in the U.S. as permanent residents for 15 years or longer.
Legal Assistance:
- Seek legal advice from qualified immigration agencies for questions about green cards or immigration status.
- Non-profit agencies in the San Jose area offer free or low-cost legal services to immigrants.
N-400 Filing and Fees:
- Complete and mail the N-400 or file online.
- Filing fees: N-400 ($640.00) plus Biometrics/Fingerprinting ($65.00). Reduced fees available for low-income applicants with Form I-942.
Naturalization Test Preparation:
- Two parts: U.S Civics and English.
- Study 100 U.S. Civics questions and USCIS Reading and Writing vocabulary.
- Utilize Citizenship Corners in libraries, online study options, and classes for preparation.
Interview Process:
- USCIS officer assesses English proficiency through initial questions.
- Under oath, answer questions from the N-400 form, followed by U.S. History and Civics questions.
- Reading and writing tests are conducted.
- Financial responsibility for back taxes should be proven with documents.
- Pass U.S. History and Civics by answering 6 out of 10 questions correctly and reading/writing 1 out of 3 sentences correctly.
Final Tips:
- Study all N-400 questions, including Yes/No questions.
- Be prepared to answer why you want to become a U.S. citizen during the interview.

In conclusion, the information provided in the article serves as a comprehensive guide for individuals considering U.S. citizenship, covering eligibility, application, fees, test preparation, and the interview process. Good luck to those embarking on this important journey!