If you are an immigrant living in Texas or another state, you may want to know how to become a naturalized U.S. citizen. You can take certain steps to become a legal citizen and permanently stay in the country.
What are the steps in the naturalization process?
Although many people think that citizenship and naturalization are complex, it follows a predictable process. Knowing the right steps to take is crucial. Those steps include the following:
• See if you’re eligible: There are certain criteria to being eligible for naturalization. Check the naturalization eligibility worksheet to see if you fall into the right categories.
• Prepare your application: You can obtain Form N-400 Application for Naturalization online. Carefully read the instructions and complete the application. You will need to get two passport-type pictures taken if you live outside of the country. Refer to the checklist for all documentation you need with your application.
• Submit the form: You can fill out your form online and submit it along with fees, which you can pay online. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, or USCIS, will send you a receipt notice.
• Attend your biometrics appointment: If you have to take biometrics, you will be notified by USCIS with an appointment notice. Attend the appointment at the specified location and on the right day and time.
• Have your interview: You will then be scheduled for an interview to complete the naturalization process. USCIS will inform you of the date and time of your appointment through a notice.
• Wait for the decision: USCIS will send a decision on your status either through regular mail or online. Your application may be granted, continued, or denied. Granted means you’re eligible while continued means you may have to provide additional documents or you failed the English or civics test. Denied means that you’re not eligible for naturalization.
• Get a notice to take your oath: You may get a notice to take the Oath of Allegiance if you’re granted citizenship. This is the naturalization ceremony. You will get a notification with a date, time, and location to attend.
• Take the oath: Once you take the Oath of Allegiance, you are officially a naturalized citizen.
Read up on important rights and responsibilities of all Americans, both by birth and the naturalization process, to be well-informed about becoming a citizen. Once you complete the naturalization process, you can build on your American dream.