To file an application for naturalization (citizenship), you must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a legal permanent resident for at least 5 years (3 years if married to a U.S. citizen) Note: you may submit your application 3 months prior to fulfilling the residency requirement).
• Have maintained continuous residence in the United States
• Have maintained at least 30 months of physical presence in the United States (or 18 if married to a U.S. citizen)
• Have lived in the state in which you are applying for at least 3 months immediately prior to the filing of the application
• Have good moral character
• Speak, read and write basic English*
• Have basic knowledge of U.S. history and government.
• Be loyal to the Constitution

Exemptions to the English Requirement

The test may be in the applicants native language if:

• Applicant is at least 50 years old and has been a legal permanent resident for at least 20 years; or
• Applicant is at least 55 years old and has been a legal permanent resident for at least 15 years; or
• Applicant is at least 65 years old and has been a legal permanent resident for at least 20 years. In these cases the applicant will be given the shortened version of the test in his or her native language.

Exemptions to the English/History and Government Requirement

A Medical Doctor must attest that the applicant has a developmental, mental or physical disability, which prevents him/her from learning English and/or U.S. History and Government. The applicant must submit a N-648 Certification for Disability Exceptions Form completed by a doctor.