The path to U.S. citizenship is an exciting journey, but it’s important to know what to expect along the way. One of the most common questions is, “How long does it take to get American citizenship?”
Understanding the naturalization process timeline and the citizenship process can make a huge difference in your experience. Let’s go through each step, key milestones, and answers to frequent questions, like how long it takes for each part of the process and what happens after your biometrics appointment.
How Long Does the Citizenship Process Take?
The time for the citizenship process can vary a lot. It usually takes between 18 and 24 months after you apply. This includes naturalization processing time of 7 to 8 months. If you’re starting with a green card, the green card to citizenship timeline includes a period of U.S. residency—typically five years for most people, though it’s reduced to three years if you’re married to a U.S. citizen.
Citizenship Process Step 1: Application and Form N-400
Your journey begins with Form N-400, which is the official n-400 citizenship form used by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). To submit this form, you’ll need to check eligibility requirements, such as age (you must be 18 or older), residency length, and good moral character.
Discover essential guidance on how to navigate your N-400 application if you have past traffic violations. We’re here to help you every step of the way!
One common question here is, How much does it cost to become a U.S. citizen? The total fee is approximately $725, which covers both the application and biometrics fees. The cost of filing online is $710.
- Processing Time for Naturalization
The processing time for naturalization can vary depending on where you live, how busy your local USCIS office is, and other factors. On average, after submitting Form N-400, it takes about 8–12 months for your application to be processed.
Citizenship Process Step 2: Biometrics Appointment
Shortly after you apply, USCIS will send you a notice for a biometrics appointment. However, this is not always the case. In most cases, USCIS will waive biometrics because it can reuse previous ones.
At this appointment, USCIS collects your fingerprints, photograph, and signature for identification and background checks. This is an essential part of the US citizenship process timeline, and it helps USCIS verify your identity.
- What Happens After Biometrics Appointment for Citizenship?
After your biometrics are taken, the next step is usually your citizenship interview. Applicants often ask, How long does it take for a citizenship interview after fingerprints? On average, it takes 5–9 months for USCIS to schedule your interview after biometrics, though this varies by location and applicant volume.
Citizenship Process Step 3: The Citizenship Interview
The interview is a crucial step in the naturalization process timeline. During the interview, a USCIS officer will review your Form N-400, ask you questions about your background, administer a civics test on U.S. history and government, and conduct an English test. Note that the English test can be waived in certain circumstances.
- How long does it take to get citizenship after applying?
In many cases, applicants are approved right after the interview and move quickly to the final step—the Oath Ceremony.
Citizenship Process Step 4: The Oath of Allegiance
If USCIS finds that you meet all the requirements, including continuous residency and good moral character, they will send you a notice for your Oath Ceremony. Once you take the Oath of Allegiance, you become a U.S. citizen. This is typically the last step in the U.S. naturalization process timeline, marking the end of the journey.
- How Long Does It Take to Get a Citizenship?
When people ask, How long does it take to get a citizenship? This citizenship process depends on each case. While the entire citizenship process timeline often takes 18–24 months, factors like incomplete paperwork, background checks, and USCIS backlogs can impact the timeline.
Start Your Citizenship Process Application Today!
Understanding the U.S. citizenship process timeline can help you plan each step with confidencen and improve your chances American citizenship success. From submitting Form N-400 to taking the Oath of Allegiance, knowing what to expect ensures you're well-prepared for each phase of the journey.
The naturalization process can take time. However, staying informed and diligent can help you achieve your goal of American citizenship. This way, you will face fewer surprises along the way.
If you need help, a Boston citizenship and naturalization lawyer can support you at every step. Ready to take the first step? Start your application today and bring your dream of U.S. citizenship closer!
U.S. Citizenship Process Frequently Asked Questions
Continue reading to find all your U.S. citizenship process questions answered.
1. How Long Does It Take for Citizenship Interview After Fingerprints?
After biometrics, most applicants typically receive an interview notice within 5–9 months. However, it's important to note that in many cases, biometrics may not be required at all. The absence of biometrics might reduce the naturalization process how long timeline.
2. I Lost My Green Card, Can I Apply for Citizenship?
Yes, you can still apply for citizenship if you've lost your green card. However, it’s best to file for a replacement to avoid delays in your time for the citizenship process.
3. Citizenship Denied. Can I Apply Again?
Yes, if your citizenship is denied, you can apply again. USCIS has specific guidelines, so you may need to wait a certain period before reapplying, and it’s a good idea to address any reasons for the denial before trying again.
4. How Long Does a Citizenship Take Overall?
The question of how long does a citizenship take can depend on many variables. Most applicants complete the process in under two years, but unexpected delays can extend this timeframe.
The processing time for naturalization is typically between 12 and 18 months, but it varies based on several factors. How long does it take citizenship to process can be shorter or longer, depending on how well-prepared you are and how busy USCIS is at the time.
5. What Is USCIS InfoPass?
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services InfoPass system is a service that allows individuals to schedule an in-person appointment at a local office.
This is particularly useful for those who do not have a valid green card for various reasons and need proof of their status as a lawful permanent resident (LPR). However, it's important to note that InfoPass appointments are not intended for case updates on your application status.
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