USCIS Announces Citizenship Eligibility for 5+ Year Residents—Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’ve been a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) in the United States for at least five years, you may be eligible to apply for US citizenship through the naturalization process.

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers a clear pathway for long-term residents who meet specific eligibility requirements. Becoming a naturalized US citizen provides benefits such as voting rights, US passport access, and job opportunities in federal agencies.

Here’s what you need to know about eligibility, the application process, and how to prepare for US citizenship.

Who Qualifies for US Citizenship After Five Years?

To apply for naturalization, you must meet the following USCIS requirements:

✔ Be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
✔ Have been a lawful permanent resident (LPR) for at least five years before applying.
✔ Have continuously resided in the US for at least five years prior to application.
✔ Be physically present in the US for at least 30 months out of the five years.
✔ Have good moral character and no serious criminal offenses.
✔ Demonstrate basic proficiency in English (reading, writing, and speaking).
✔ Pass a US civics test covering government and history.
✔ Take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States.

Understanding Continuous Residence and Physical Presence

A continuous residence means that you have not left the US for extended periods. If you travel outside the US for more than six months but less than one year, you may be required to prove that you maintained ties to the US, such as employment or a home.

A physical presence requirement means that you must have spent at least 30 months physically in the US over the last five years. Long trips abroad may disrupt this requirement.

How to Apply for US Citizenship

The naturalization process involves several key steps:

Step 1: File Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization)

• Download and complete Form N-400, the official application for US citizenship.
• Gather supporting documents such as Green Card copies, travel history, and tax records.
• Pay the $640 application fee plus $85 biometric fee (fee waivers may be available for low-income applicants).

Step 2: Attend Biometrics Appointment

USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment where your fingerprints and photo will be taken for background checks.

Step 3: Complete the Citizenship Interview

• You’ll be interviewed by a USCIS officer who will review your application and ask questions about your eligibility, background, and intent to become a US citizen.
• You will take the English test and civics test during this interview.

Step 4: Receive USCIS Decision

• If approved, you’ll receive a notice for the naturalization oath ceremony.
• If denied, you may have the option to appeal or reapply.

Step 5: Take the Oath of Allegiance

• The final step is attending a citizenship ceremony and taking the Oath of Allegiance.
• You will receive your Certificate of Naturalization, officially confirming your US citizenship.

Exceptions and Special Cases

Spouses of US Citizens

If you’ve been married to a US citizen for three years, you may qualify for naturalization after only three years of permanent residency instead of five.

Military Service

US military members and veterans may qualify for expedited naturalization or may be exempt from certain residency requirements.

Why Become a US Citizen?

• Voting Rights – Participate in US elections and shape government policies.
• US Passport – Gain access to visa-free travel in over 180 countries.
• Protection from Deportation – Unlike Green Card holders, citizens cannot be deported.
• Family Sponsorship – Sponsor spouses, parents, and siblings for US residency faster.
• Access to Federal Jobs – Some US government jobs are only available to citizens.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a US citizen after five years of residency is a major milestone with life-changing benefits. If you meet the eligibility criteria, applying for naturalization could open up new opportunities, security, and rights.

• Start your application early and ensure you meet all USCIS requirements.
• Prepare for the English and civics tests to increase your chances of passing.
• Consult an immigration attorney or seek USCIS assistance if needed.

If you’ve been a Green Card holder for over five years, this may be the perfect time to take the next step toward becoming a US citizen.

This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.