What Is Naturalization?
We are very pleased that you want to
Naturalization is commonly referred to as
become a U.S. citizen. The United
the manner in which a person not born in
States is a nation of immigrants.
the United States voluntarily becomes a
Throughout our history, immigrants
U.S. citizen.
have come here seeking a better way of life
and have strengthened our Nation in the
What Is This Guide for?
process.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services
(USCIS) created this Guide to provide
For more than 200 years, the United
better and more consistent information
States has remained strong because of our
to people interested in naturalization. It
citizens and the common civic values we
is written mainly for people 18 years or
share. Deciding to become a U.S. citizen
older who want to become citizens. Please
is one of the most important decisions in
take the time to review this information
a person’s life. If you decide to apply for
to make sure that you are eligible to apply
naturalization, you will be showing your
for naturalization. You can find more
permanent commitment to the United
information at www.uscis.gov or by calling
States. You will also be showing your
Customer Service at 1-800-375-5283 or
loyalty to its Constitution and its people.
1-800-767-1833 (for hearing impaired).
When you are naturalized, you agree
to accept all of the responsibilities of
being a citizen. You agree to support the
United States, its Constitution, and its
laws. In return, you are rewarded with all
the rights and privileges that are part of
citizenship. We welcome your interest and
hope you will read on to learn more about
naturalization.
A Guide to Naturalization
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