How Long Does It Take to Get US Citizenship After Applying?

One of the most critical things to understand is that no one timeline fits all cases. While some individuals might see their applications processed swiftly, others may experience delays due to various factors such as background checks, the applicant’s location, or the volume of applications USCIS is handling at a given time.

But let's dive right in and keep you on the edge of your seat: it typically takes between 12 to 18 months from the moment you submit your Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization, to when you can raise your right hand and take the oath as a U.S. citizen. Now, why does it take so long, and what steps are involved in the process?

What is the Citizenship Process Like?

First, you need to meet eligibility requirements, which vary depending on your situation. For most applicants, eligibility hinges on permanent residency (Green Card) status, which must typically be held for five years (or three years for those married to a U.S. citizen). You also need to be at least 18 years old, demonstrate continuous residency, and be physically present in the U.S. for a certain period.

Once you confirm eligibility, you submit Form N-400, the naturalization application. Here's where things get exciting, or perhaps nerve-wracking: the real wait begins.

Breaking Down the Citizenship Process

The process follows a series of important steps, each contributing to the overall wait time. Let’s break them down:

1. Submitting the Application (0 to 1 month)

• This is where the journey starts. You prepare and submit your Form N-400, along with the required documents and filing fee (currently $725, but this can change). Make sure everything is correct, as any mistakes could cause delays. Once submitted, USCIS will notify you they’ve received your application.

2. Biometrics Appointment (2 to 3 months)

• Shortly after submission, you will receive an appointment notice to go to a local USCIS office for your biometrics appointment. This is where you’ll have your fingerprints, photograph, and signature taken. USCIS uses this information to run a background check on you.

3. Background Check (3 to 5 months)

• The background check is a critical part of the process. USCIS will review your criminal history, employment records, travel history, and more. If something in your background requires further investigation, it could extend the timeline.

4. Interview and Civics Test (5 to 10 months)

• This is a major milestone. After the background check clears, you’ll be scheduled for an interview with a USCIS officer. During this interview, they’ll ask you questions about your background, your application, and test your knowledge of U.S. civics and English proficiency. Many applicants say this part is stressful, but preparation is key. The interview date can vary based on your local USCIS office’s backlog.

5. Oath Ceremony (10 to 18 months)

• Finally, the moment you’ve been waiting for! Once you pass the interview and civics test, you’ll receive a notice to attend your oath ceremony. At the ceremony, you’ll take the Oath of Allegiance and officially become a U.S. citizen. In some cases, the oath ceremony can be scheduled on the same day as the interview, but usually, it takes place weeks later.

What Can Cause Delays in the Citizenship Process?

Delays can occur for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common include:

• Errors on the N-400 form: If you make a mistake on your application, this could slow things down considerably.
• Name changes or discrepancies: If there are discrepancies in your name or other personal information across different documents, USCIS may require additional time to verify your identity.
• Security or background check issues: If something comes up during your background check that needs further investigation, this can add months to your wait time.
• Local USCIS office backlog: Some USCIS offices are busier than others, leading to longer wait times for interviews and oath ceremonies.
• Application surge: Political or legislative changes sometimes result in a surge of applications, which can extend processing times across the board.

Is There Any Way to Speed Up the Process?

While it’s often difficult to speed up the naturalization process, there are a few things you can do to avoid unnecessary delays:

• Double-check your application for errors: Simple mistakes can lead to major delays, so be sure to carefully review your Form N-400 before submitting it.
• Attend all appointments on time: Missing an appointment can delay your case by months, so be sure to attend your biometrics appointment, interview, and oath ceremony on time.
• Be proactive: If you’ve been waiting for an update and think something might have gone wrong, don’t be afraid to contact USCIS to check the status of your case.

An Important Reminder: Patience is Key

Remember, naturalization is a long process, and patience is key. While the wait may be frustrating at times, it’s worth keeping in mind that the final reward—becoming a U.S. citizen—makes the journey worthwhile. It’s a significant achievement, granting you the right to vote, run for office (except for President or Vice President), and access other benefits like federal jobs and protection from deportation.

A Look at Historical Trends in Citizenship Processing Times

In recent years, citizenship processing times have fluctuated due to changes in administration policies, the volume of applications, and USCIS staffing levels. For example, during 2020 and 2021, the COVID-19 pandemic caused significant delays as offices closed, and many applicants faced longer than usual wait times.

To give you a better perspective, here's a look at how processing times have varied over the last decade:

As seen from the table, the timeline has generally lengthened in recent years due to factors such as increased application volumes and administrative changes. These fluctuations serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the process.

What Happens After You Become a U.S. Citizen?

Once you become a U.S. citizen, new opportunities await. Some of the key benefits include:

• Right to vote: You’ll now have the ability to participate in U.S. elections, helping shape the future of the country.
• Eligibility for federal jobs: Many federal government jobs are only open to U.S. citizens.
• Passport and travel benefits: With a U.S. passport, you’ll be able to travel freely and receive assistance from U.S. embassies and consulates abroad.
• Sponsorship for family members: As a U.S. citizen, you can sponsor relatives for green cards, making it easier for your family to join you in the U.S.
• Protection from deportation: U.S. citizens cannot be deported, which provides an extra layer of security and peace of mind.

Conclusion: The Reward of Perseverance

The journey to U.S. citizenship is a long one, often filled with moments of frustration, waiting, and anticipation. However, the reward—becoming a U.S. citizen—is worth every moment. Once you’ve taken that final step, raised your hand, and recited the Oath of Allegiance, all the hard work and patience will have paid off. You’ll now have a sense of belonging in one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world, with the rights and privileges that come with being a U.S. citizen.

If you're in the process or thinking about starting your application, take heart knowing that each step brings you closer to your goal. Keep informed, stay patient, and be prepared. The path to citizenship is challenging, but it's a journey that ultimately opens the door to a new world of opportunities.