Preparation for Application

• 1). Download "A Guide to Naturalization" from the U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services website (see Resources), or pick the booklet up at a local USCIS office. Read the guide and get acquainted with the steps of the process. At the back of the booklet there is a naturalization eligibility worksheet. Complete this to see if you are able to naturalize at this time.
  
  
• 2). Download or pick up the "Application for Naturalization" from USCIS. Fill out this form in its entirety. If you skip any field on the form, it could cause a delay in your application.
  
  
• 3). Have two passport-style photos taken of yourself. Have them printed on thin photo paper, with a white background. In the photo your face should be unobscured, and you should not be wearing any head covering unless your religious beliefs require it.
  
  
• 4). Mail your application, Form I-551 (your green card), and the required fee to the USCIS office in your state. Send a check or money order for the fee, not cash. If the guide suggests sending along other forms for your particular situation, send those as well.
  
  

Naturalization Process

• 1). Wait for a letter in the mail from the USCIS with an appointment to have your fingerprints taken. Attend the appointment, and bring state-issued photo ID.
  
  
• 2). Go to your naturalization interview. You will receive another letter from USCIS setting this appointment as well, and indicating if there is any additional paperwork required of you. Again, bring your photo ID.
  
  
• 3). Answer the questions that the immigration officer asks you about your applications as well as you can. Be honest and answer completely.
  
  
• 4). Take the written and oral English tests. They include a series of tasks, and you must demonstrate that you can answer one out of three questions. Take the immigration test on the U.S. government. The test is 10 questions and you must answer six correctly.
  
  
• 5). Await your oath appointment. You may be able to take the oath immediately after your interview and tests, but you may have to wait to receive an appointment by mail. Show up for the oath appointment at least 30 minutes early if this is the case.
  
  
• 6). Return your green card to the USCIS officer. You will soon get your certificate of residence and will no longer need the green card.
  
  
• 7). Repeat the USCIS officer as he or she recites the oath, word for word. The oath is in the guide, and you can request small modifications of the oath during your interview. Once you've completed the oath the USCIS will give you your certificate of naturalization and you will be an official U.S. citizen.