In 2024, more than 818,000 individuals took the Naturalization Oath of Allegiance at ceremonies managed by United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The statistic represents a 7 percent annual decrease attributed to the federal government’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it also represents a gain of 2.6 million new American citizens over three years, proving there are still various paths to naturalization for immigrants to explore.
Why Is Naturalization an Immigration Benefit?
USCIS manages various programs that grant foreigners legal status, and they’ve been known as “benefits” since the agency grew exponentially in the 20th century. Examples of benefits include asylum, residency, and other discretionary privileges. Citizenship by naturalization is the highest USCIS benefit you can apply for.
What Are the Paths to Naturalization?
All immigrants who become American citizens must be permanent residents. However, the way in which they obtain their green cards may differ. Section 316(a) of the Immigration and Naturalization Act sets a standard requirement of continuous residence in the U.S. for five years. Exceptions include K-1 visa holders married to American citizens for three years, foreigners who serve in the Armed Forces, and children born abroad to naturalized parents.
How Much Does It Cost?
In May 2026, the filing fee for an N-400, Application for Naturalization, was $760 for paper forms. According to estimates published by the Migration Policy Institute, it costs immigrants approximately $3,700 to navigate the process from initial entry to naturalization. This is a “sticker price” estimate of filing, processing, and ancillary fees that doesn’t include legal or logistics costs.
Why Should I Become an American Citizen?
Beyond being the highest benefit managed by USCIS, choosing to transition from a green card holder to a citizen elevates your legal standing. You can fully integrate into civic life and exercise your right to vote in federal elections. Naturalized citizens can run for political office, serve on juries, and participate in the democratic process. The U.S. passport gives you many opportunities for visa-free travel, and you can sponsor family members to start their immigration process.
Becoming an American citizen is one of the most important legal steps you’ll ever take. KS Visa Law is ready to guide you through every stage of the naturalization process, from verifying your eligibility to preparing for your interview and tests. As trusted immigration attorneys in San Diego, we can provide you with the legal support you need to avoid common pitfalls and move toward citizenship with confidence. Contact KS Visa Law today to schedule your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there naturalization tests?
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Yes, one test is on English language proficiency, and the other covers American civics. Some applicants may qualify for exemptions based on age, disability, or impairment.
Do I need an attorney for naturalization?
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There’s no legal requirement to hire an immigration law firm. All USCIS benefits feature self-application workflows, including naturalization. If you’re in the Southern California area, consulting attorneys who provide immigration services in San Diego can be extremely helpful if your case involves complex legal issues or when a background check returns a red flag.
What are some common challenges?
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Failing the English or civics tests is the most common barrier to naturalization. Some applicants must deal with falling short of continuous residence or physical presence timelines, particularly if they left the country and returned with an advance parole document. The “good moral character” provision is sometimes problematic when there are taxation or law enforcement issues.
What if I don’t want to be a U.S. citizen?
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You can remain a lawful permanent resident indefinitely, and you’ll be responsible for renewing your green card every 10 years and not leaving the U.S. for longer than six months.
