A person may become a U.S. citizen through birth in the U.S. or if abroad, through birth to U.S. citizen parent(s). Most persons born in the United States or in U.S. jurisdictions, become U.S. citizens at birth. Other persons born abroad become citizens through birth to one or two citizen parents, when certain conditions are met. Because of the complicated nature of the citizenship laws, it is important to explore your case with an attorney if your parents or grandparents were citizens of the U.S.

Many other persons become citizens through the naturalization process, years after becoming permanent residents. The requirements for naturalization include:

• continuous residence
   
  
• physical presence in the United States;
   
  
• residence in a particular BCIS District prior to filing;
   
  
• an ability to read, write and speak English (with some exceptions);
   
  
• knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government;
   
  
• good moral character; and
   
  
• belief in the U.S. Constitution and the U.S. government.

Whereas all naturalization applicants must demonstrate good moral character and a belief in the U.S. Constitution and government, other naturalization requirements may be modified or waived for certain applicants, such as spouses of U.S. citizens. Applicants should review the following materials and carefully read the N-400 application instructions before applying.