It might have not been your plan since you were young, but life brought you to the United States. Whether it was for a job, education, love or the like, you have decided that you want America to be your permanent home and become a citizen of the United States.
As a noncitizen, you might feel confused about your rights and are overwhelmed about the legal process to gain citizenship. Nonetheless, there are manageable options for you if you are seeking naturalization after being established as a lawful permanent resident, or LPR.
Route from LPR to citizen
The most common path traveled to obtain U.S. citizenship through naturalization is by becoming a LPR for at least five years. Once this five-year threshold is met, a LPR can apply for naturalization. However, in order to enter this path of citizenship, there are several other requirements to meet for eligibility.
Eligibility requirements for naturalization
After five years as a LPR, you may submit your application for naturalization if you are at least 18 years of age and have continuously resided in the United States for at least the five years prior to the date of application. In addition, you must demonstrate that you have been physically present in the United States for at least 30 months of the five-year period and have lived in your current residence for at least three months.
There are more personal requirements as well. You must be a person of “good moral character.” You must be able to read, write and converse in basic English, have knowledge and understanding of U.S. civics and show your commitment to the principles in the U.S. Constitution. Finally, you must take an oath of allegiance to the United States.
Due to these requirements, an applicant for naturalization might be a LPR for more than five years. If you believe that you are eligibility to apply for naturalization or want to know more about your rights and options to become a citizen, it is important to seek guidance from a legal professional.
