What steps does an immigrant need to take to become a US citizen?

Continuous Residence for five years is required in most cases to apply to become a U.S. citizen. This requires physical residence for 30 months and 18 months if the applicant is married to an U.S. citizen. In preparation for the process, prospective applicants must begin by going through 'A Guide to Naturalization' (M-476). The Guide has an Eligibility Worksheet which can be completed to identify whether all requirements for citizenship are met by the applicant. Then, the form for application can be downloaded from www.uscis.gov.

The form for applying for becoming a U.S. citizen is the N-400. The form must be filled and sent to the relevant Service Center. After receiving an appointment letter, the applicant will need to visit a Biometrics location and get their Biometrics taken. The next stage comprises of waiting for an appointment letter for an interview. The interview will include English and Civics tests.

Then, the applicant has to wait to receive a ceremony card. During the ceremony, the applicant will have to return their Permanent Resident Card. In the ceremony, the applicant will take the Oath of Allegiance which will then be followed by issuance of the Certificate of Naturalization.