Citizenship through naturalization is a process by which foreign immigrants can become U.S. citizens. You must have a green card for five years or three years if you are married to a U.S. citizen.
In order to get citizenship through naturalization you have to fill the form N-400 which (also called the naturalization application). You fill this form to petition the grant of citizenship. You can file this form online or by mail. You have to pay the fees of $725 of which $640 is for application processing and $85 is for your biometrics.
If you file online, you can pay these fees online with a debit or credit card. If you file your application by mail then you can pay by a personal check, a cashier’s check, money order, and even by credit card. If you want to pay by credit card then you need to file an additional form G-1450. By filling this form you are basically giving authorization to USICS to process your credit card for the fees.
Once you file the petition you have to submit proof that you have been residing in the US. You then have to demonstrate that you have been a person of good moral character. Next, you have to demonstrate that you have a basic understanding of the US history and the US constitution. You do this by taking a test at your naturalization interview. This is where you demonstrate your English writing and speaking skills. Finally you pledge an allegiance and you are granted citizenship.
In order to get your citizenship certificate you have to attend an oath taking ceremony. This is where you are given a certificate of naturalization and now you are an official US citizen who can apply for a passport and enjoy all the rights and privileges granted to U.S. citizens.
