Citizenship connects the people of a nation and the United States has welcomed people from all over the world. Americans are bound shared values of freedom, liberty, and equality - as defined and shaped by immigrants from many countries. Naturalized citizens still shape our country by obtaining aid for higher education, voting, holding public office, and serve on juries.

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Naturalization

• Applicants for U.S. citizenship generally must show:

• They have lived in the U.S. on a green card for five years (just 3 years for a spouse of a U.S. citizen);

• Are able to read, write and speak English;

• Understand U.S. history and government; and

• Are persons of good moral character

 

Elderly green card holders who have lived in the United States for long periods may be eligible to waive the English requirement and take the civics exam in their native language.
 
Citizenship for Military Members & Dependents
Members and veterans of the U.S. armed forces, and their dependents may be eligible for citizenship under special provisions of law.  Members of the U.S. armed forces and their dependents (spouses and children) may be eligible for expedited and overseas processing of their naturalization applications.
 
Family Based Survivor Benefits (for Relatives)
Immediate relatives of U.S. armed forces members who die as a result of combat while in an active duty status may be eligible for certain “survivor” immigration benefits, including citizenship. 
 
Military Help Line
USCIS has established a toll-free “Military Help Line” exclusively for members of the military and their families: 1-877-CIS-4MIL (1-877-247-4645).