NATURALIZATION

Naturalization is the process by which U.S. citizenship is conferred upon a foreign citizen or national after he or she fulfills the requirements established by Congress in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). The general requirements for administrative naturalization include:

• a period of continuous residence and physical presence in the United States;
• residence in a particular U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services District prior to filing;
• an ability to read, write, and speak English;
• a knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government;
• good moral character;
• attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution; and
• favorable disposition toward the United States.

Recent changes in immigration law and U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services procedures now make it easier for U.S. military personnel to naturalize.
Although all naturalization applicants must demonstrate good moral character, attachment, and favorable disposition, the other naturalization requirements may be modified or waived for certain applicants, such as spouses of U.S. citizens.

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