What It Means to Be a Naturalized U.S. Citizen and Why It Matters

Becoming a United States citizen is a major life achievement. While some people are U.S. citizens from birth, others become citizens through a legal process called naturalization. If you weren’t born in the U.S. but you live here and want to stay permanently, naturalization may be the path for you. It means you meet certain requirements, apply to become a citizen, pass a test, and take an oath to be loyal to the U.S.

In this article, we’ll explain what a naturalized citizen is, how to apply, what benefits and responsibilities come with citizenship, and what risks to be aware of. Whether you’re just starting to think about applying or already preparing your paperwork, this guide can help you better understand the process and what it means to become a naturalized American citizen.

What Is a Naturalized Citizen?

A naturalized citizen is someone who was not born in the United States but went through a legal process called naturalization to become a U.S. citizen. This process usually includes filling out an application (Form N-400), attending a biometrics appointment, passing a civics and English test, going through an interview, and finally taking the Oath of Allegiance to the United States. 

After completing these steps and receiving approval from the U.S. government, that person becomes a full American citizen. This means they are granted all the same rights and protections as someone born in the U.S.

So, what is a naturalized citizen in simpler terms? It’s someone who made the choice to become American and followed the official path to do so. A naturalized American citizen can vote in elections, apply for a U.S. passport, sponsor family members for immigration, and work for the federal government. They are also protected from deportation, except under very specific and rare circumstances like fraud or criminal activity. Becoming a naturalized citizen is often seen as the final and most important step in an immigrant’s journey.

Naturalized Citizen vs. Green Card Holder

It’s important to understand the difference between being a Green Card holder (also known as a lawful permanent resident) and being a naturalized citizen. While both allow someone to live and work in the U.S. legally, their rights and responsibilities are very different:

• Voting Rights
  • Green Card holders cannot vote in federal elections.
  • Naturalized citizens can vote in all U.S. elections, including federal, state, and local.
• Passport Privileges
  • Green Card holders use a passport from their home country.
  • Naturalized citizens can apply for a U.S. passport, which gives access to U.S. consular support and easier international travel.
• Length of Stay Abroad
  • Green Card holders can lose their status if they stay outside the U.S. too long.
  • Naturalized citizens can live abroad as long as they like without losing citizenship.
• Family Sponsorship
  • Green Card holders have limited ability to sponsor family members.
  • Naturalized citizens can sponsor more types of relatives (like parents, married children, and siblings) for immigration.
• Deportation Risk
  • Green Card holders can be deported for certain crimes or violations.
  • Naturalized citizens are much more protected, though naturalized citizen deportation is possible in cases of fraud or serious crimes.
• Government Jobs
  • Many federal jobs require U.S. citizenship, which Green Card holders do not have.
  • Naturalized citizens can apply for and hold federal employment.
• U.S. Jury Duty
  • Only U.S. citizens, including naturalized ones, can be called for jury duty.
  • Green Card holders are not eligible.

Understanding these differences helps people decide whether they want to take the next step and apply for naturalization. Becoming a citizen offers more stability, rights, and opportunities. It’s not just a legal change—it’s a commitment to becoming part of the American community.

Understanding the Naturalized Citizen Definition

The official naturalized citizen definition is someone who gains citizenship through the legal naturalization process rather than by being born in the United States. This process is open to immigrants who have lived in the U.S. for a certain number of years, followed the laws, and can show they understand the basics of U.S. history and government.

It’s different from being a natural-born citizen, which happens automatically at birth. But in the eyes of the law, both types of citizens have the same rights. The only major difference is that naturalized citizens can’t become president or vice president. Still, naturalization is a powerful way to become part of the American family and fully participate in civic life.

The Rights and Responsibilities of a Naturalized American Citizen

Becoming a naturalized American citizen gives you many important rights. You can vote in federal, state, and local elections. You can apply for a U.S. passport, which makes traveling easier. You’re allowed to apply for certain government jobs that require citizenship. You can also sponsor your spouse, children, and sometimes other family members to come live in the U.S.

But with those rights come responsibilities. As a citizen, you must obey the laws, pay taxes, and serve on a jury if you’re selected. If you’re a man between the ages of 18 and 25, you must register for the Selective Service. You also agree to support and defend the U.S. Constitution. 

The Oath of Allegiance, which all new citizens take, includes a promise to be loyal to the United States and give up loyalty to any other country.

How to Become a Naturalized Citizen: Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding how to become a naturalized citizen means knowing the basic steps. The process takes time, but each step is important and brings you closer to becoming a U.S. citizen. If you plan ahead and make sure your application is complete, you’ll have a better chance of success.

Here are the steps to becoming a citizen:

• Step 1: Check if you are eligible. Make sure you meet all the requirements, such as age, residency, and good moral character.
• Step 2: Complete and submit Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. You can file it online or by mail.
• Step 3: Go to a biometrics appointment where USCIS takes your fingerprints and photo.
• Step 4: Attend a naturalization interview. A USCIS officer will ask you questions about your application and test your knowledge of English and U.S. civics.
• Step 5: Receive a decision. USCIS will approve, deny, or continue your application. If approved, you move to the next step.
• Step 6: Take the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony. This is the final step to becoming a U.S. citizen.

The process can take several months or longer, depending on your location and your case. Staying organized and prepared helps avoid delays.

Naturalized Citizen Requirements You Need to Know

Before you apply, it’s important to understand the naturalized citizen requirements. These rules help USCIS decide if you qualify for citizenship. While there may be some exceptions for people in special situations (like military service), most applicants must meet these standard requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have had a Green Card for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen)
• Have lived in the U.S. continuously for at least 5 years
• Have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months in the past 5 years
• Live in the state or district where you are applying for at least 3 months
• Show that you have good moral character (no serious criminal record)
• Be able to read, write, and speak basic English
• Understand basic U.S. history and government (civics)
• Be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance

Meeting these requirements shows that you are ready to become a citizen and commit to the responsibilities that come with it.

What Happens After You Become a Naturalized Citizen?

Once you become a U.S. citizen, your legal status changes in a big way. You no longer need to worry about renewing your Green Card or losing your residency status. You can live in the U.S. permanently and enjoy the full protections of the law. If you travel abroad, you can return more easily with your U.S. passport.

In your everyday life, you may also feel a stronger connection to your community. You can vote for leaders who make decisions that affect your life, such as local school boards, mayors, and presidents. You might even decide to run for office yourself. Being a citizen helps you feel like you belong and that your voice matters.

Can You Lose Your Citizenship? Naturalized Citizen Deportation Explained

Even though naturalization is permanent, it can be taken away in rare cases. This is called naturalized citizen deportation, and it usually happens when the person lied or hid important information during the application process. If USCIS finds out later that you weren’t really eligible, they can take away your citizenship.

For example, if someone used a false name, didn’t disclose a criminal record, or, worse, faked documents, that would be grounds for naturalized citizen deportation. Also, certain actions like joining a foreign army or government might lead to losing your citizenship. While this doesn’t happen often, it’s a good reminder to be honest and accurate in your application.

The Benefits of Becoming a Naturalized American Citizen

There are a lot of good reasons to become a citizen. As a naturalized American citizen, you get benefits that aren’t available to green card holders (permanent residents). These include more job options, better travel rights, and the ability to vote in elections.

Here are some of the main benefits:

• You can vote: Only citizens can vote in federal elections. Voting gives you a say in important decisions.
• You can apply for government jobs: Many jobs in the federal government require U.S. citizenship.
• You can help family immigrate: Citizens can sponsor more family members than Green Card holders.
• You get a U.S. passport: It makes traveling easier and gives you access to U.S. help when you’re overseas.
• You have more legal protection: As a citizen, you can’t be deported just for committing a crime. You also have full rights under the U.S. Constitution.

These benefits can lead to more stability, opportunities, and freedom in your life.

Common Mistakes That Delay Citizenship Applications

Applying for citizenship isn’t necessarily hard, but some minor mistakes can significantly slow you down. One of the biggest mistakes is sending in an incomplete application. If you leave out any information (or forget to sign your form), USCIS may send it back to you.

Other common mistakes include:

• Using an outdated version of Form N-400
• Not paying the correct filing fee
• Failing to bring required documents to your interview
• Missing your fingerprint or interview appointments
• Not studying for the civics and English tests

The best way to avoid delays is to double-check everything and ask for help if you’re unsure. FileRight offers tools and services that check your form for errors before you send it to USCIS.

Criminal Issues That Can Cause Problems When Applying for Naturalization

When applying to become a naturalized American citizen, your criminal history can have a serious impact. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) checks your background carefully to see if you are a person of “good moral character.” This review typically covers the five years before you apply (or three years if you’re married to a U.S. citizen), but more serious crimes from the past—even decades ago—can still count against you. Some crimes can delay your application, while others may lead to denial or even naturalized citizen deportation later on if the crime is discovered after you’ve already become a citizen.

It’s important to be honest about your criminal history and understand how different offenses may affect your case. Not all crimes are treated equally—some will disqualify you entirely, while others might be forgiven over time if you show rehabilitation. In some situations, it’s a good idea to talk to an immigration attorney before you apply for citizenship. Below are some examples of criminal issues that can create problems when applying for naturalization:

Crimes That Can Affect Your Naturalization Application

• Aggravated Felonies: Crimes such as murder, rape, drug trafficking, or weapons trafficking can make you permanently ineligible for naturalization.
• Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude: These include offenses like fraud, theft, assault with intent to harm, or domestic violence. Even one conviction can affect your application, especially if it occurred recently.
• Multiple Criminal Convictions: If you’ve been convicted of two or more crimes that led to five years or more in prison, this can result in automatic denial.
• Drug-Related Offenses: Possession of controlled substances (except a small amount of marijuana in some cases) may lead to denial. Drug trafficking or manufacturing is considered very serious.
• False Testimony or Misrepresentation: Lying to immigration officials, even about small things, can be seen as a lack of good moral character. This includes using fake documents, lying on forms, or hiding your record.
• Failure to Pay Taxes or Child Support: Not keeping up with your tax or child support obligations may be viewed as a moral character issue, especially if you have the means but choose not to pay.

If you’ve had any trouble with the law, it doesn’t always mean you can’t become a citizen. But USCIS looks closely at your actions, your honesty, and whether you’ve taken responsibility for your mistakes. Understanding how your record could impact your naturalization process is key to preparing a strong application and avoiding surprises.

Frequently Asked Questions About Naturalization

It’s normal to have questions when you’re thinking about applying for citizenship. Here are answers to the most common questions:

• Can I keep my original citizenship? The U.S. allows dual citizenship, but you should check if your home country does too.
• How long does the process take? Most applications are processed within 8 to 14 months, but times can vary.
• What happens if I fail the test? You get another chance to take the English and civics tests.
• Can I apply for my children to become citizens? In many cases, yes. Children under 18 may automatically become citizens when their parent is naturalized.
• Is an interview required? Yes. Every applicant must attend an interview and answer questions about their application and U.S. history.

Having good answers to your questions helps you feel more confident about the process.

Life After Naturalization: What Changes and What Stays the Same

After you take the Oath of Allegiance, you become a full member of American society. You can vote, work, and travel freely. You have more rights and protections, and you can proudly call yourself an American. Many people feel a great sense of pride and joy at this moment.

But becoming a citizen doesn’t mean you stop being who you are. You still keep your culture, language, and values. America is a country built by immigrants, and your background is part of what makes the country strong. Being a citizen simply means you’re choosing to be part of this diverse and growing nation.

Helping Your Family After You Become a Citizen

One of the most powerful benefits of becoming a naturalized American citizen is the ability to help your close family members live in the United States. As a citizen, you can sponsor certain relatives for Green Cards—something that isn’t always possible or as fast if you only have a Green Card yourself. This means your spouse, children, and parents may be able to live, work, and study in the U.S. permanently. It’s an important way to reunite families and provide better opportunities for your loved ones.

Compared to lawful permanent residents, U.S. citizens have more rights when it comes to family immigration. For example, some relatives—like parents or unmarried children under age 21—are considered “immediate relatives” under immigration law. There is no annual limit on the number of Green Cards for these categories, which means faster processing times and fewer delays. Helping your family get permanent legal status is one of the most meaningful and lasting things you can do after becoming a citizen.

How Naturalized Citizens Can Petition for Family Members

Once you’re a U.S. naturalized citizen, you can file a petition (Form I-130) with USCIS to sponsor certain family members. Here’s how it works:

• Spouse
  • You can petition for your husband or wife to receive a Green Card as an immediate relative.
  • There is no cap on the number of visas available, so the process is usually quicker.
• Children
  • You can sponsor unmarried children under 21 as immediate relatives.
  • For children over 21 or those who are married, you can still petition for them, but wait times may be longer due to visa category limits.
• Parents
  • After turning 21, you can sponsor your mother and father to immigrate to the U.S. as immediate relatives.
  • Like spouses and minor children, there is no visa cap for parents of U.S. citizens.
• Siblings
  • You can also petition for your brothers and sisters, but this category has a longer waiting period because of annual visa limits.
  • Wait times can be 10 years or more, depending on the country they live in.
• Fiancé(e)
  • U.S. citizens can bring a fiancé(e) to the U.S. on a K-1 visa, which allows them to enter the country and get married within 90 days.
  • After marriage, your fiancé(e) can apply for a Green Card from within the U.S.

These family-based immigration benefits are one of the biggest differences between being a Green Card holder and a U.S. citizen. After learning how to become a naturalized citizen, many people say that the opportunity to reunite with family is what motivated them the most.

Being able to offer your loved ones a stable life in the U.S. is more than a privilege—it’s a gift. And as a naturalized citizen, you have the tools to make that happen.

Why Becoming a Naturalized Citizen Is a Smart Choice

Choosing to become a citizen is more than just filling out forms: it’s a decision to make the U.S. your new permanent home. It means you long to be involved, make your voice heard, and build a future here. Citizenship gives you the best tools to protect your rights, boost your opportunities, and be better able to support your family.

While the process may seem long, difficult, and confusing, it’s well worth the effort. You’ll gain peace of mind, strong legal protection, and a stronger connection to the country you live in. Becoming a naturalized citizen is one of the best decisions you’ll make as an immigrant.

Take the Next Step Toward Citizenship

Now that you have more information about how to become a naturalized citizen, the naturalized citizen requirements, and even the risks of naturalized citizen deportation, you can make an informed choice. The path may have challenges, but the rewards are great.

If you’re ready to take the next step, FileRight is here to help. Our proprietary software checks your application, helps you avoid mistakes, and prepares your documents for mailing.

Becoming a naturalized American citizen is more than just paperwork—it’s a journey toward belonging, freedom, and opportunity. Start your journey today.