How A Lawful Immigrant Can Apply For US Citizenship?Requirements, Eligibility Explained

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Delhi: The United States Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that any eligible immigrant applying for US citizenship or permanent residency will be required to undertake and pass an updated immigration test.The nation aims to ensure that applicants applying for US citizenship should possess adequate knowledge of US history and government, as mandated by law.The new version of the 2025 naturalisation test will assess an immigrant’s understanding of US history, according to the Customs and Immigration Department.As the United States seeks to toughen its stance on granting permanent residence and citizenship, let’s take a deep dive into how an immigrant becomes eligible to apply for US citizenship.

• The very first requirement for a legal immigrant to apply for US citizenship is that they must be at least 18 years old.
• They must have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years or 3 years if married to a US citizen.
• The applicant must have resided in the country during this period and demonstrate physical presence in the US for a specific duration.

Language Skills

• The applicant must be able to read, write, and speak basic English.
• They should also demonstrate an attachment to the US Constitution and an understanding of US history and government.

Filing Form N-400

• Before filing Form N-400, the applicant must prove continuous residence in the US for the required period.
• They must also show that they have lived in the United States for at least half of the 5-year period or 18 months if married to a US citizen.
• Good moral character must be maintained throughout the entire period of permanent residency.

Understanding US History, Government, and Constitution

Applicants must understand the fundamentals of US history, the principles of democracy, and the structure of the government.

What Are the Exceptions?

• Applicants with physical or developmental disabilities, or mental impairments, may be exempt from the English and civics requirements. To claim this exemption, they must submit Form N-648, a medical certification for disability exceptions.
• Immigrants who are 55 years or older and have been permanent residents for at least 15 years may also qualify for exemptions from certain English and civics tests.