After obtaining a Green Card, US citizenship is the final achievement for most US immigrants. Learn if you should consider becoming a “real” American and what steps you need to take to get your US passport.
Take the chance of living in the USA and apply for the official US Green Card Lottery!
There are three different ways to obtain a US passport:
For most people, the first way is the most comfortable because a Green Card is comparably easy to obtain through the Green Card Lottery.
There are only a few differences between a US Citizen and a Green Card holder, for example, the right to vote in federal and state elections and the absence of tiresome document renewals. Otherwise, life in the US looks pretty much the same for both:
Rights | US Citizen | Green Card holder |
---|---|---|
Permanent residence | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Permanent work permit | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Easy entry and exit | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Medicare benefits, government assistance | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Study at US universities at cheaper in-state tuition fees (up to 80% less) | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Vote in federal and state elections | ✔️ | ❌ |
Vote in local elections | ✔️ | In some states |
Run for a seat in public office | ✔️ | ❌ |
Apply for government-sponsored financial aid for educational purposes |
✔️ | ✔️ |
Access to security clearances and exemptions from export restrictions | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Protected from entry bans | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Eligibility for federal student loans | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Bring family members into the country | Immediately | Waiting time* |
Duties | US Citizen | Green Card holder |
File income tax returns | ✔️ | ✔️ |
Renew residence documents every ten years | ❌ | ✔️ |
*No long waiting times when a family wins the Green Card Lottery.
By becoming a US citizen, you will have a say in how the United States is governed. However, a US passport is not essential. Millions of people are insanely happy with their Green Cards and like to keep their “old” citizenship.
By applying, though, you demonstrate your commitment to the United States of America. Like no other nation, Americans are united by the shared values of freedom and equality.
Ever since, the USA has been welcoming newcomers from around the world with open arms. Thus, the decision to become a US citizen could be seen as an appreciation of diversity and liberty.
Lawful Permanent Residents may qualify for the so-called naturalization (obtaining US citizenship) after five years of Green Card ownership. If you are married to a US citizen, there is only a three-year wait.
The basic requirements for getting a US passport include:
If you meet these requirements, you can apply for a US passport.
To become naturalized, file a petition with the U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS). You will go through the following steps:
Of course, you can't just buy a US passport, but you will have to pay a filing fee if you go through the US passport application process. Depending on your way to US citizenship, there are different filing fees:
Becoming a US citizen | Fee |
---|---|
… through Naturalization (Green Card holders) | Paper Filing: $ 760 Online Filing: $ 710 |
Annual household income is no more than 400 % of the federal poverty guidelines | $ 380 |
Fee waiver with form I-912 | $ 0 |
If you meet the requirements of INA sections 328 or 329 with respect to military service | $ 0 |
Additional fees: | - |
Biometrics Services Fee (if applicable) | $ 30 |
Many Green Card holders are afraid that they will mess up the naturalization interview and test. However, you do not have to worry. If you meet all the requirements and show up well prepared, nothing will go wrong. The following steps await you:
At the naturalization interview, a USCIS officer will question you about your petition and personal background. Just answer truthfully.
If you do not qualify for an exemption (these can be made for older residents who have lived in the USA for a long time or disabled people), you will take the tests right after the interview.
The civics test for naturalization is an oral test done by a USCIS officer. There are 100 facts to study about the American government and history. Here are some examples for test questions:
Fun Fact: After former President Donald Trump made the US naturalization test significantly more complex and difficult, this additional hurdle was removed again by the Biden administration. The easier naturalization test, which was last revised in 2008, now applies again.
The USCIS English test is held to prove your comprehension and writing skills in the English language. If you do not qualify for an exemption (e.g., for older residents who have lived in the USA for a long time or disabled people), you will take the English test during and right after the civics test.
You may ask for words to be repeated or rephrased, and you do not have to worry if you pronounce or spell words wrong. But be prepared for the following:
“Speaking test” only means answering the questions of the USCIS officer during your civics test. So by finishing the civics test, you already completed your first language challenge.
After that, You will have to read aloud and write one out of three sentences correctly using standardized reading test sheets.
If you fail to pass your naturalization test or the language test, you will get a second try. Between your first and second attempts, there will be between 60 and 90 days for preparation.
If you fail the English test the second time, you can appeal the decision by requesting a hearing. This will give you a third and final chance to pass the test. Otherwise - that is, if you actually failed all the tests - start your application process over again when you feel confident enough. There are no waiting periods for reapplying.
After you passed your naturalization interview and test, USCIS approves your Form N-400 and invites you to take the Oath of Allegiance at your naturalization ceremony.
The formal oath ceremony is the highlight of the naturalization process. Depending on where you live, yours could take place in a small room on the day of your civics test or in a federal building months later.
Regardless of where your oath ceremony is held, it is a solemn occasion, so dress up. Show up about an hour before your appointment to allow enough time for a USCIS officer to verify your eligibility. Therefore, bring the following:
As part of the naturalization ceremony, you will take the Oath of Allegiance that has led to American citizenship for more than 200 years. By doing so, you declare that:
Suppose you don't want to recite the part about carrying weapons and serving in the armed forces. In that case, you must demonstrate sincere religious convictions or a deeply held moral or ethical code that prevents you from doing so.
After you took the oath, you will be welcomed as a US citizen and receive your naturalization certificate. Double-check all the information on the document, sign it, and then – CONGRATULATIONS! – celebrate your naturalization in a fitting manner.
Make sure to change your Social Security data and register your voting ballot. You’re a real American now!
uscis.gov, nolo.com