Citizenship and Naturalization Attorneys In Kansas City, Missouri

Becoming a U.S. citizen, or “naturalizing,” is a lifelong goal for many, but the process can be intimidating and confusing. On this page, we explain the general requirements for naturalization, as well as a few exceptions.

Eligibility for Citizenship

To be eligible for citizenship, you must meet these general requirements:

• Be 18 years of age or older;
• Be a permanent resident for at least 5 years (or 3 years if you are married to a U.S. citizen);
• Have continuous residence in the U.S. for the last 5 years (or 3 years if you are married to a United States citizen) and be physically present in the U.S. for at least half that time;
• Be able to read, write and speak basic English;
• Have a knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government;
• Be a person of good moral character; and
• Take a loyalty oath to the United States and support the Constitution and form of government of the United States.

Generally, the process involves submitting a detailed application and attending an interview with USCIS. At that interview, you will need to demonstrate knowledge of the English language, as well as U.S. history and government. The English test covers your ability to read, write, speak and understand the English language. The USCIS officer will test your conversational English and ask you to read aloud a sentence in English and write a sentence in English. The Civics test covers your knowledge of U.S. history and government. There are 100 pre-written questions for you to study before the interview, where a USCIS officer will ask you up to 10 of the pre-written questions. You can find a list of the history and government questions and answers here on USCIS's website. 

Disability Exception

If you have a physical or mental disability or a mental impairment that makes taking or passing the English and Civics tests challenging, you can apply for a waiver. If the waiver is approved, you will be exempt from taking one or both tests. To show USCIS that you meet this requirement, you must have an N-648 form certified by a medical doctor or clinical psychologist who is licensed to practice in the United States. Your doctor must complete the N-648, and include the following details:

1. A diagnosis and description of your physical or developmental disability or mental impairment,
2. An explanation of how the disability or impairment prevents you from learning or demonstrating knowledge of English, U.S. history/civics, or both,
3. An explanation that the disability or impairment has lasted, or is expected to last, at least 12 months, and
4. A confirmation that the cause of the disability or impairment is not related to the illegal use of drugs.

Some examples that may qualify are PTSD, dementia, multiple sclerosis, or depression.

Exception for Long-Time Permanent Residents

If you have been a permanent resident for many years, you may not be required to take the English test. The following applicants do not need to take the English test, and are eligible to take the Civics test in the language of their choice:

• Applicants who are 50 or older and have been permanent residents for at least 20 years; or
• Applicants who are 55 or older and have been permanent residents for at least 15 years.

Applicants who are 65 or older and have been permanent residents for 20 years or longer can also take a shorter version of the civics test.

Questions?

Our immigration attorneys are experienced in filing applications for naturalization, and preparing applicants for their naturalization interviews. We are dedicated to guiding clients through this journey, ensuring that they have the support needed to navigate the requirements and fulfill their aspirations of citizenship.