Legal Definitions - Naturalization

Naturalization is the legal process by which a person who was born outside the United States, and is not already a U.S. citizen, voluntarily becomes a U.S. citizen. This process allows eligible individuals to gain the same rights and responsibilities as those born in the U.S., provided they meet specific criteria established by law.

To qualify for naturalization, applicants must generally:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have been a lawful permanent resident (often called a "green card holder") for a specific period, typically five years, and have been physically present in the U.S. for at least half of that time.
• Demonstrate an ability to read, write, and speak basic English, and possess a fundamental understanding of U.S. history and government. (Exceptions exist for certain disabilities or age/residency combinations).
• Show good moral character, meaning they have generally abided by the law and societal norms.
• Demonstrate an attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution, indicating an acceptance of the U.S. form of government and a commitment to achieving change through peaceful means, respecting the rights and liberties of others.
• Hold a favorable disposition toward the United States.

Here are some examples illustrating naturalization:

• Example 1: The Software Engineer
  Anya Sharma, a 32-year-old software engineer from India, has lived in the United States as a lawful permanent resident for seven years. During this time, she has consistently paid her taxes, has no criminal record, and has actively participated in her local community. She successfully passes the English language proficiency test and demonstrates a solid understanding of U.S. history and government during her interview. Anya expresses her commitment to the U.S. democratic system and its values.

  This illustrates naturalization because Anya meets all the standard requirements: she is over 18, has exceeded the minimum residency period, demonstrates English literacy and civics knowledge, exhibits good moral character, and shows attachment to the U.S. Constitution and a favorable disposition towards the country.

• Example 2: The Elderly Refugee with a Disability
  Mr. Chen, a 75-year-old refugee from Vietnam, has been a lawful permanent resident in the U.S. for twelve years. He has a documented cognitive disability that affects his ability to learn new languages and retain complex information. Due to his age and disability, he qualifies for a waiver of the English language and civics tests. Despite this, Mr. Chen has always been a law-abiding resident, raised a family, and expresses deep gratitude for the safety and opportunities he found in the United States.

  This example demonstrates naturalization by showing how the process accommodates individuals with specific circumstances. While Mr. Chen is exempt from the English and civics tests due to a disability, he still fulfills the core requirements of age, long-term lawful residency, good moral character, and a favorable disposition toward the U.S.

• Example 3: The Small Business Owner
  Maria Rodriguez, a 45-year-old small business owner from Mexico, has been a lawful permanent resident for six years. She has built a successful bakery, employs several local residents, and is known for her ethical business practices. Maria has a clean legal record, actively volunteers at her children's school, and regularly participates in local town hall meetings. She confidently passes her English and civics tests, articulating her belief in the U.S. system of government and her desire to contribute to its future.

  Maria's situation highlights the "good moral character" and "attachment to the Constitution" aspects of naturalization. Her community involvement, law-abiding conduct, and active participation in civic life demonstrate her integration and commitment to the values and governmental structure of the United States.