How Hard Is It to Become a U.S. Citizen?
Becoming a U.S. citizen is achievable for most applicants who meet the legal requirements, prepare for the interview and test, and submit accurate, complete paperwork.
The process can feel more difficult when issues arise with continuous residence, physical presence, good moral character, English proficiency, or documentation.
How “hard” naturalization feels depends largely on a person’s immigration history and level of preparation.
Let’s explore it in more detail.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATIONWhat Actually Makes Naturalization “Hard” or “Easy”
To apply for U.S. citizenship, applicants must file Form N-400 and meet several statutory requirements that USCIS reviews during the interview process.
Key eligibility factors include:
- Time as a lawful permanent resident (LPR):
Typically five years as an LPR, or three years if eligible under INA § 319(a) (married to a U.S. citizen and living in marital union). - Continuous residence and physical presence:
Absences of six to twelve months may disrupt residence unless rebutted; absences of one year or more generally break continuous residence. - State or USCIS district residence:
Applicants must live in the filing jurisdiction for at least three months. - Good moral character:
USCIS reviews criminal history, taxes, child support obligations, and overall conduct during the statutory period. - English and civics knowledge:
Most applicants must pass both components unless an exception applies.
Tip: Eligible applicants may file up to 90 days early.
Common Challenges Applicants Face
Even applicants who qualify often find parts of the process stressful or confusing. Common challenges include:
- Extended travel outside the United States
Long trips may disrupt continuous residence and delay eligibility. See guidance on travel outside the United States. - Complex immigration history
Multiple visa categories, prior applications, or status gaps can increase scrutiny. - Limited English proficiency
The English test evaluates basic skills, but lack of practice can make the interview stressful. - Civics test preparation
Without preparation, the civics test can feel overwhelming. - Paperwork errors
Inconsistent dates, missing documents, or incorrect information may lead to delays. - Processing delays
USCIS timelines vary by field office and workload.
The Naturalization Interview and Test (Current Rules)
- English: Applicants demonstrate basic speaking, reading, and writing ability during the interview.
- Civics: Officers ask up to 20 questions from a list of 128. Applicants pass by answering 12 correctly. The officer stops once the applicant passes or fails.
Applicants who do not pass one portion of the test are usually scheduled for a second attempt within 60–90 days, limited to the section they did not pass.
USCIS data shows that most prepared applicants succeed, with a large majority passing on the initial interview and additional approvals occurring after re-examination.
Exceptions and Accommodations That May Apply
Some applicants qualify for exemptions or accommodations:
- 50/20 Rule: Age 50+ with 20+ years as an LPR (English waived; civics required with interpreter)
- 55/15 Rule: Age 55+ with 15+ years as an LPR (English waived; civics required with interpreter)
- 65/20 Special Civics: Simplified civics questions
- Medical disability exception (Form N-648): May waive English and civics for qualifying impairments
How Long Does the Naturalization Process Take?
Processing times vary based on location and USCIS workload. Applicants can review current estimates using the official USCIS case processing times tool for Form N-400.
Many applicants complete the naturalization process in under a year, but timelines can change. After approval, applicants must still attend the Oath of Allegiance ceremony to become U.S. citizens.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATIONWhen the Process Feels More Straightforward
- Clean immigration and legal history
- No long absences during the statutory period
- Basic English skills and civics preparation
- Complete and consistent documentation
- Moderate USCIS field office workload
When Naturalization May Be More Challenging
- Extended international travel
- Past arrests, citations, unpaid taxes, or record inconsistencies
- Limited English proficiency or test anxiety
- Missing or inconsistent documentation
- Multiple immigration statuses or prior filings
When Applicants Often Seek Legal Guidance
Applicants may benefit from a lawyer’s help when there are long absences, prior immigration issues, arrests or citations, documentation gaps, name changes, or questions about eligibility under the three-year versus five-year rule.
A focused review can help reduce avoidable delays and potential Requests for Evidence (RFEs).
Conclusion: How Hard Is It to Become a U.S. Citizen?
Naturalization is not inherently “hard”—it is procedural. Applicants who meet eligibility requirements, prepare carefully, and submit accurate documentation often succeed and may have a second test opportunity if needed.
For individuals with complex histories, targeted legal guidance can reduce uncertainty and help the process feel more manageable.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATIONFrequently Asked Questions
How long does the naturalization process take?
Many applicants finish the process in under a year, though timelines vary by USCIS field office and workload.
Can I apply for citizenship if my English isn’t strong?
Yes. Limited English may make the test more challenging, but the English requirement focuses on basic skills, and practice can help.
What happens if I fail the English or civics test?
USCIS usually schedules a second attempt on the portion not passed, typically within a few months.
Do I need a lawyer to apply for citizenship?
Not necessarily. Many applicants file on their own. Those with complex histories or legal concerns often seek professional guidance.
Is the U.S. the hardest country to become a citizen?
Not generally. Many countries impose stricter residency, language, or cultural requirements. U.S. naturalization is detailed but not unusually restrictive.
What disqualifies someone from U.S. citizenship?
Certain criminal convictions, lack of good moral character, failure to meet residence requirements, unpaid taxes, false statements, or immigration violations may affect eligibility. Each case is evaluated individually.
What is the hardest part of becoming a U.S. citizen?
The most challenging part varies. Some applicants struggle with continuous residence or documentation, while others find the English or civics test more difficult.
