Since the beginning of the United States, many immigrants have come to the country. Many of these immigrants want to become citizens. A citizen is a legal member of a country. U.S. citizens can vote in the United States. They can run for office or work for the government. They are also protected by U.S. laws.
Immigrants must go through a long and difficult process to become U.S. citizens. How do they become citizens? There is one common path most immigrants can take.
First, a person must legally immigrate to the United States. Then, he or she can apply for a Green Card. A Green Card allows a person to live and work permanently in the United States. But having a Green Card does not make someone a U.S. citizen.
To become citizens, immigrants must be at least 18 years old. They must be able to speak and understand basic English. They also must have lived in the U.S. for at least five years. They apply to be citizens by filling out paperwork. Sometimes, it takes years for their applications to be approved. Once they are approved, an immigration officer interviews them. Some of these questions test their knowledge on American history. Then, they take an Oath of Allegiance. An oath is a promise. Allegiance is loyalty. People promise to obey U.S. laws and be loyal to the United States. Finally, they get a certificate. They are officially U.S. citizens!
Do you know someone who has gone through the process of becoming a United States citizen?
