Eligibility for U.S. Citizenship: Are You Qualified?
Before applying for naturalization, it’s essential to know if you meet the legal requirements. This guide outlines who qualifies, how exceptions work, and what can prevent approval. If you’re unsure about your status, this information can help you take the next step with clarity.
Quick Navigation
Do I meet the basic requirements for U.S. citizenship?
To qualify for naturalization, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold a green card (lawful permanent resident status) for at least:
- 5 years, or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen
- Have continuously resided in the U.S. during the required period
- Have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of the last 5 years
- Demonstrate good moral character (no serious criminal history, compliant with taxes)
- Be able to read, write, and speak basic English
- Pass the U.S. civics test, unless exempt due to age or disability
Meeting these requirements allows you to submit Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
Can I apply sooner as a spouse or military member?
Yes. Some applicants qualify for earlier or expedited naturalization:
- Spouses of U.S. citizens may apply after 3 years of permanent residency
- U.S. military members and veterans may qualify for expedited citizenship
- Refugees and asylees may count part of their time under protected status toward the residency requirement
There are also exemptions for applicants with certain disabilities and for those over age 50 who meet specific residency timelines.
What’s the difference between continuous residence and physical presence?
Continuous residence means you’ve maintained your primary home in the U.S. during the required time period.
Physical presence refers to the number of days you’ve actually been inside the United States.
Extended trips abroad (especially over six months) can break continuous residence and delay your eligibility. Always keep documentation of travel if your trips were necessary.
What could make me ineligible for citizenship?
You may be denied naturalization if:
- You’ve committed certain crimes, including felonies, fraud, or immigration violations
- You failed to meet the continuous residence or physical presence requirements
- You haven’t filed or paid your taxes
- You provided false information or misrepresented facts during the application process
If you’re unsure about your record or past travel, consult with an immigration attorney before applying.
How can Translations Certified support my application?
If your supporting documents (such as birth or marriage certificates) are not in English, USCIS requires certified translations.
At Translations Certified, we offer:
- Certified translations for all required naturalization documents
- Compliance with USCIS format and accuracy standards
- Fast turnaround (typically 24–48 hours)
- Optional notarization when needed
We help ensure your application is complete and compliant, so you can move forward with confidence.
References:
The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. While we strive to ensure that the information is accurate and current, it is not a substitute for professional legal counsel. Please consult with a qualified attorney for advice regarding your specific situation or legal questions.