Naturalization Process

In general, the naturalization process includes the following steps:

1. Determine if you are already a U.S. citizen.
2. Determine your eligibility to become a U.S. citizen.
3. Prepare Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
4. Submit Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
5. Go to the biometrics (fingerprinting) appointment, if applicable.
6. Complete the interview.
7. Receive a decision from USCIS on your Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
8. Receive a notice to take the Oath of Allegiance.
9. Take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States.
10. Understand your rights and responsibilities as a U.S. citizen.

Oath of Allegiance

“I hereby declare, on oath, that I absolutely and entirely renounce and abjure all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state, or sovereignty, of whom or which I have heretofore been a subject or citizen;

that I will support and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States of America against all enemies, foreign and domestic;

that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same;

that I will bear arms on behalf of the United States when required by the law;

that I will perform noncombatant service in the Armed Forces of the United States when required by the law;

that I will perform work of national importance under civilian direction when required by the law;

and that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; so help me God.”