Donald Trumpeto is chomping at the bit as his Jan. 20 inauguration approaches.Among his controversial promises is a plan to terminate birthright citizenship via executive order on his first day in office, which is currently legally impossible. His administration is also reportedly preparing to revoke a long-standing policy that restricts U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents from making arrests at or near sensitive locations such as houses of worship, schools, hospitals, funerals, weddings, and public demonstrations, according to NBC News.
This development has created waves of anxiety among immigrant communities. It also signals a stark reminder to lawful permanent residents eligible for U.S. citizenship to act swiftly. Applying for naturalization within the next four weeks could shield you from future uncertainties and it’s the best holiday gift to you. Here’s a guide to help eligible immigrants begin the naturalization process and secure their place in the U.S.
Step 1: Determine eligibility for naturalization.
To apply for U.S. citizenship, you must meet the following general requirements.
Age and residency
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold lawful permanent resident status (a “Green Card”)
- Have continuously resided in the U.S. for at least 5 years (3 years if married to a U.S. citizen)
Physical presence
- Physically present in the U.S. for 30 months during the last five years (or 18 months if married to a U.S. citizen)
State residency
- Have lived in the state or USCIS district where you file for at least three months
Citizenship through parents
- Parent was a U.S. citizen before you turned 18 — use Form N-600 (Application for Certificate of Citizenship) to claim it
- Evidence required includes rental or mortgage statements, tax transcripts, bank statements, car registration, passports, or other documents showing residence and physical presence
Step 2: Create a USCIS Online Account to file the application online.
Visit USCIS.gov and create an account.
Use a valid email address and follow the two-factor authentication process, which adds an extra layer of security.
Step 3: Complete and file Form N-400.
Log in to your account and select “File a Form Online.” Complete all sections of Form N-400, leaving no fields blank. Review the instructions for detailed guidance.
Step 4: Upload supporting documents.
Gather and upload required documents, such as:
- Copies of your permanent residency or Green Card
- Proof of physical presence (e.g., tax transcripts, utility bills)
- Identification documents (e.g., passport, driver’s license)
- Translations of any non-English documents
Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and formatted as PDF, JPG, or JPEG.
Step 5: Pay the filing fee.
The fee for online applications is $710, payable via credit card, debit card, or bank account. If mailing your application, the fee increases to $760. Payment is processed through Pay.gov, a secure government site.
Step 6: Attend Biometric Appointment.
If required, USCIS will notify you of a biometric appointment to collect your fingerprints, photo, and signature. Check your USCIS online account for updates.
Step 7: Respond to Requests for Evidence (RFE).
USCIS may request additional documents. Monitor your USCIS account to view notices and submit any required evidence promptly.
Step 8: Track your case.
Log into your USCIS account regularly to monitor your case’s status. You can also send and receive secure messages through the account.
Step 9: Attend your Naturalization Interview.
If required, you will receive an appointment notice for an interview. During the interview, USCIS will test your knowledge of U.S. history and government, and assess your English proficiency.
Step 10: Receive a decision.
USCIS will inform you of the decision via your online account or a mailed notice. If approved, you will be invited to take the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony to complete your journey to citizenship.
Additional tips
- If filing by mail, submit two recent passport-style photos (2×2 inches) with a plain white background.
- Ensure all documents are signed and properly formatted to avoid delays or rejection.
For help, contact the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283 (TTY: 800-767-1833).
Act now
With proposed policies threatening to heighten immigration enforcement, the time for eligible green card holders to act is now. Start your naturalization application today to safeguard your future and claim your rights as a U.S. citizen.
Felicia J. Persaud is the publisher of NewsAmericasNow.com, a daily news outlet focused on positive news about Black immigrant communities from the Caribbean and Latin America.
