US Naturalization (Citizenship)
For lawful permanent residents who meet residence and other requirements to become US citizens.
The US Naturalization (Citizenship) is a US settlement & citizenship visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~US$760 N-400 filing fee (US$710 if filed online)) and processing time (~6-12 months from filing to oath ceremony), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the US Naturalization (Citizenship) is for
For lawful permanent residents who meet residence and other requirements to become US citizens.
Is the final step: confers US citizenship, including the right to a US passport and to vote.
US Naturalization (Citizenship) - eligibility criteria
- Be a permanent resident for 5 years (3 if married to a US citizen)
- Meet continuous residence and physical presence rules
- Demonstrate good moral character
- Pass the English and US civics tests
- Take the Oath of Allegiance
US Naturalization (Citizenship) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the US Naturalization (Citizenship) (United States) is ~US$760 N-400 filing fee (US$710 if filed online), with an indicative processing time of ~6-12 months from filing to oath ceremony. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov).
| Type | Citizenship |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Filed inside the US with USCIS (Form N-400) |
| Length of stay | Permanent (US citizenship) |
| Work rights | Unrestricted as a citizen |
| Study rights | Unrestricted as a citizen |
| Government fee | ~US$760 N-400 filing fee (US$710 if filed online) |
| Processing time | ~6-12 months from filing to oath ceremony |
| Route to PR | Is the final step: confers US citizenship, including the right to a US passport and to vote. |
Pathway & next steps
Is the final step: confers US citizenship, including the right to a US passport and to vote.
Many applicants also compare Green Card · Adjustment of Status (Green Card in the US), IR-1/CR-1 · IR-1/CR-1 Spouse of US Citizen Green Card. Run a free VisaChief check to see which US route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common US Naturalization (Citizenship) pitfalls we fix
US Naturalization (Citizenship) - frequently asked questions
How much does the US Naturalization (Citizenship) cost?
The US Naturalization (Citizenship) government fee is ~US$760 N-400 filing fee (US$710 if filed online). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov) before applying.
How long does the US Naturalization (Citizenship) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~6-12 months from filing to oath ceremony. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the US Naturalization (Citizenship) lead to permanent residence?
Is the final step: confers US citizenship, including the right to a US passport and to vote.
Can I work on the US Naturalization (Citizenship)?
Work rights: Unrestricted as a citizen.
Who can apply for the US Naturalization (Citizenship)?
For lawful permanent residents who meet residence and other requirements to become US citizens.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official United States government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov) - official United States immigration authority