To become a United States citizen, an individual needs to immigrate to the United States legally, obtain a green card, and file a Declaration of Intent.
Step Two - Live in the U.S. legally for 5 Years
Once you have filed your Declaration of Intent, you must live in the U.S. legally for five years and live in your state for a minimum of three months. Five years is reduced to three years if you are married to a U.S. citizen.
Step Three - Fill out Application Form N-400 to be Naturalized
Complete the N-400 form and collect the appropriate documents as indicated on the form for your eligibility to be naturalized.
Step Four - Submit the Application Form
Send in your application form and fees for your background check and biometrics. Once you receive a receipt notice, you can check the processing time and status at www.uscis.gov.
Step Five - Go to a Background Check and Biometrics Appointment
You will be notified by USCIS about an appointment where you will be fingerprinted and a background check will be conducted. If you are 75 years old or older, you are excused from only the fingerprint requirements.
Step Six - Attend an Interview
For step six, you must attend an interview with a USCIS officer and you will answer questions regarding your N-400 form.
Step Seven - Take a Civics and English Test
After the interview, you will take a test about English and Civics to make sure you understand the United States of America.
Step Eight - Get a Decision from USCIS
You will receive a written decision from the USCIS on whether the evidence establishes your naturalization eligibility.
Step Nine - Take the Oath of Allegiance
The Oath of Allegiance is administered by the USCIS at a ceremony or by a judge. You will receive a Certificate of Naturalization after this oath.
Once you have completed the above, congratulations on becoming a U.S. Citizen!