Becoming a U.S. citizen is one of the most meaningful milestones in an immigrant’s journey, representing not only a legal recognition but also a deep sense of belonging and opportunity.

To be eligible for naturalization, an applicant must be a lawful permanent resident for required years, demonstrate good moral character, and meet continuous residence requirements. Generally, applicants must be a lawful permanent resident for at least five years with the exception of spouses of U.S. citizens who may apply after three years.

The first step in the naturalization process is to file the Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, which includes questions about your background, residence history, employment history, travel history, and criminal history.

The second step is to attend a naturalization interview at your local USCIS Field Office to answer questions on the Form N-400 and complete a civics and English exam.
If you pass the exam and USCIS approves the Form N-400, the final step is to attend the naturalization ceremony also known as the oath ceremony to receive the naturalization certificate.

In 2025, the naturalization process has undergone significant updates that applicants should understand prior to filing the Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.

Key Changes

Recently, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) made some changes to the naturalization process and the qualifying criteria for becoming a U.S. citizen.

  • Revamped Civics Test (Effective October 20, 2025): The civics test is an oral exam that now places greater emphasis on U.S. history, government, and civic principles. There are 128 civics test questions, and applicants must answer 12 questions out of 20 questions correctly. In other words, an applicant will fail the test if answering 9 of the 20 questions incorrectly.
  • Enhanced English Proficiency Requirements: USCIS clarified that applicants must demonstrate not only basic conversational English but also the ability to understand civic concepts in English. This means stronger emphasis on reading comprehension and writing skills during the interview.
  • Stricter Review Standards: Applications are now subject to expanded documentary and digital scrutiny. USCIS has increased its use of electronic verification systems, which may lengthen review timelines. Applicants should ensure all documents are accurate, consistent, and up to date. USCIS Policy Memorandum: Restoring a Rigorous, Holistic, and Comprehensive Good Moral Character Evaluation Standard for Aliens Applying for Naturalization.
  • Expanded Background Checks: Security vetting has been broadened to include more thorough checks of social media handles, international travel history, financial records, and digital footprints.
  • New Payment Methods of Filing Fees

As of October 28, 2025, USCIS will only accept filing fees paid by ACH debit (Form G-1650) or credit card payments (Form G-1450). Money orders and checks are no longer accepted.

The current filing fees for Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) are the following:

  • $760 for paper filing
  • $710 for online filing
  • $380 reduced fee if your documented annual household income is below 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. You cannot request the reduced fee when filing online.
  • Applicants whose household income is at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guideline may file a fee waiver request by filing Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver with the Form N-400. USCIS evaluates eligibility based on income levels, receipt of public benefits, or other special circumstances.

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Exceptions and Accommodations

USCIS continues to provide exceptions and accommodations to certain applicants.

English Language Exemptions

  • Applicants age 50 or older and resided in the U.S. as a permanent resident for at least 20 years are exempt from the English test.
  • Applicants age 55 or older and resided in the U.S. as a permanent resident for at least 15 years are exempt from the English test.

These individuals must still take the civics test but may do so in their native language with the help of an interpreter.

  • Applicants age 65 or older and resided in the U.S. as a permanent resident for at least 20 years are exempt from the English test. Applicants must study only 20 specially designated civics questions, and the officer will you 10 questions from that list. To pass, the applicant must answer at least six correctly.

Medical Disability Exceptions

Applicants with qualifying medical conditions that prevent them from learning English or civics may request exemptions. Form N-648 Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions must be completed by a licensed medical professional including Medical Doctors, Doctors of Osteopathy, and Clinical Psychologists.

Disability Accommodations

USCIS continues to provide accommodations or modifications for applicants with physical or mental impairments during interviews, tests, and the Oath of Allegiance ceremony. Examples include sign language interpreters, extended time, or offsite administration of the Oath of Allegiance.

Free English Classes in Phoenix, AZ

For many applicants, improving English skills is the biggest hurdle. Fortunately, in Phoenix, Arizona there are a variety of free or low-cost resources to learn English:

These programs not only prepare you for the naturalization interview but also build confidence in everyday life, from talking to teachers at your child’s school to navigating healthcare appointments.

Practice for the Citizenship Test

Preparation is key to passing the civics and English tests. Here are reliable resources:

Applicants should practice regularly, ideally in short daily sessions. Pairing civics study with English practice, such as writing short essays about U.S. history or discussing civic topics with a study partner, helps reinforce both skills.

The Bigger Picture: Why Citizenship Matters

Beyond the paperwork and tests, naturalization is about embracing the responsibilities and privileges of citizenship. U.S. citizens can obtain the U.S. passport and travel to 180 countries without a visa, gain the right to vote, run for public office (except President and Vice President), and access certain federal jobs.

U.S. Citizens also take on responsibilities such as serving on juries and participating in civic life. Citizenship is not just a legal status; it is a commitment to the democratic values of the United States. By preparing thoroughly, applicants demonstrate their readiness to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the United States.