Applying for U.S. Citizenship after Being an LPR for At Least 5 Years

Denice Flores • October 10, 2024

To be eligible for U.S. naturalization based on being a lawful permanent resident for at least five years, you must:
  • Prove you have been a lawful permanent resident of the U.S. for at least five years;
  • Demonstrate continuous residence in the U.S. for at least five years immediately before applying for naturalization;
  • Show you have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of the five years immediately before applying for naturalization; and
  • Pass the naturalization test.
The naturalization test consists of the English and civics test. 

The applicant must show his/her ability to read, write, and speak basic English. The interviewing USCIS officer will ask the applicant to read a sentence in English and to write a sentence in English. If the applicant demonstrates his/her ability to read, write, and speak English, the applicant passes this portion of the test.

The civics test is an oral test, and the applicant is asked questions about the American government and history. The USCIS officer will ask the applicant up to 10 questions from the list of 100 civics test questions. To pass this portion of the test, the applicant must answer at least 6 questions correctly. 

If the applicant satisfies all of the eligibility requirements and passes the naturalization test, the last step before naturalizing is to attend the oath ceremony to become a naturalized U.S. citizen.

If you have any questions and would like more information about your eligibility for naturalization, please contact our office to schedule a consultation with our experienced immigration attorneys. 

This blog is not intended to be legal advice and nothing here should be construed as establishing an attorney client relationship. Please schedule a consultation with an immigration attorney before acting on any information read here.

Denice Flores

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