There are many benefits to becoming a United States citizen. Naturalized citizens do not have to worry about removal from the country. They can sponsor more of their family members for visas and green cards.
Citizenship also allows people to vote in elections and run for political office. Becoming a United States citizen requires commitment, as it is a lengthy process in many cases. Those who enter the country with visas can eventually adjust their status. They secure green cards that grant them permanent residence status.
From there, they can eventually become naturalized citizens. There are several stages in the process of becoming a citizen, and completing all three of the steps below is necessary for those who want to be citizens, not just residents of the United States.
Submitting the proper paperwork
No one becomes a citizen by chance. They have to fill out specialized paperwork requesting naturalization. They must pay a fee when submitting their paperwork to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The USCIS conducts a background check and may require that the aspiring citizen attend a biometrics appointment.
Completing a naturalization interview
Those who meet the basic criteria for naturalized citizenship have to schedule an interview with this USCIS. There is a test in Civics and another in the English language. The Civics test is an oral test consisting of questions about United States history and government. The English language test involves speaking and listening, as well as reading and writing. Applicants have an opportunity to retake the tests once if they fail.
Taking the oath of citizenship
Naturalized citizens must swear their allegiance to the United States at a special ceremony. They can schedule the oath-taking after passing their naturalization test and receiving approval from the USCIS. The oath includes swearing to uphold the Constitution and defend the country if necessary. For many immigrants, taking that oath is one of the proudest moments of their lives. It takes quite a bit of effort to go from dreaming of citizenship to verbally promising to uphold the Constitution.
Immigrants who secure the right assistance can improve their chances of successfully naturalizing. Obtaining support makes it easier to prepare for tests and navigate the red tape necessary to become a naturalized citizen.