Who is eligible for US citizenship and what are its benefits ?
In most situations, a person is eligible to apply for Naturalization, if they meet the following requirements: Applicant has been a lawful permanent resident for five years (or three years for spouses of United States Citizens) Applicant is 18 years old Applicant is of good moral character Applicant can speak, read, and write English Applicant must pass a test on U.S. history and government Applicant was physically present in the U.S. at least half the requisite time Applicant has maintained lawful permanent residence continuously Applicant swears loyalty to the U.S. by taking an oath of allegiance Benefits include the right to vote for in all government elections (federal, state and local), and the fact that certain family members may be immediately eligible to receive citizenship, such as minor children. Other family members are eligible to receive a green card with shorter wait periods than family members of residents (see Family based residency section for estimated wait periods).
