Can I Apply For U.S. Citizenship While Still Holding A Green Card?

Yes, you can apply for U.S. citizenship while holding a Green Card. This process is called naturalization. If you meet the necessary requirements, such as the length of time you’ve held a Green Card, your continuous residence in the U.S., and your good moral character, you can begin the process to become a U.S. citizen.

Requirements for Applying for U.S. Citizenship as a Green Card Holder

Permanent Residency Duration

• Generally, a Green Card holder can apply for citizenship after holding a Green Card for at least 5 years.
• If you are married to a U.S. citizen, the waiting period is reduced to 3 years.

Continuous Residence

• You must have lived in the U.S. as a permanent resident for at least half of the 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
• If you have taken trips abroad lasting more than 6 months, it may disrupt your continuous residence, and you might need to wait longer to apply.

Physical Presence

• You need to have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of the last 5 years, or 18 months out of the last 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen.

Good Moral Character

• You must demonstrate good moral character for at least the past 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
• Serious criminal convictions or behavior can affect your eligibility, and you must not have violated U.S. laws during this time.

English Language and Civics Test

• Most applicants must pass a civics test that covers U.S. history and government, and an English language test that evaluates your ability to read, write, and speak basic English.
• Some exemptions apply, such as for applicants over a certain age or with disabilities.

Filing the Naturalization Application

To apply for citizenship, you must file Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) with USCIS. You will also need to pay the application fee, submit supporting documents (like your Green Card, proof of residence, etc.), and attend a biometrics appointment.

Naturalization Interview

After filing, you will be scheduled for an interview with a USCIS officer, where they will review your application, ask questions about your background, and test your knowledge of U.S. civics and the English language. If your application is approved, you will receive a naturalization ceremony date.

Oath of Allegiance

Once approved, you will attend a swearing-in ceremony where you will take the Oath of Allegiance to officially become a U.S. citizen.

Example

Maria has been a Green Card holder for 5 years and has lived in the U.S. continuously during that time. She is married to a U.S. citizen, so she is eligible to apply for citizenship after 3 years instead of 5. Maria fills out the N-400 form, submits her application to USCIS, and attends the naturalization interview. After passing the civics and English tests, she is approved and takes the Oath of Allegiance to officially become a U.S. citizen.

Legal Actions and Protections

Review Your Eligibility

Before applying for citizenship, ensure you meet all the requirements, such as continuous residence and good moral character.

Consult an Immigration Lawyer

If you have any criminal history or other issues that might affect your eligibility, consult with an immigration lawyer before applying for citizenship.

Prepare for the Tests

Familiarize yourself with the U.S. history and civics test questions and practice English language skills to pass the required tests.

Conclusion

As a Green Card holder, you are eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship after meeting the necessary requirements. This process of naturalization involves submitting an application, passing required tests, and attending an interview before taking the Oath of Allegiance. If you meet the residency, physical presence, and moral character requirements, you can become a U.S. citizen and enjoy all the benefits of citizenship.