Language Resources

Naturalization

The process by which a person not born in the United States voluntarily becomes a U.S. citizen.

"The naturalization ceremony is the final step in becoming a U.S. citizen."

Petition

A formal written request, such as the application for naturalization (Form N-400).

"You must file a petition for naturalization with USCIS."

Oath of Allegiance

The pledge immigrants take to officially become United States citizens.

"During the naturalization ceremony, you will take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States."

Biometrics

Physical characteristics, such as fingerprints, that USCIS collects as part of the application process.

"You will need to attend a biometrics appointment where they will take your fingerprints."

Eligibility

Meeting the requirements to apply for and receive U.S. citizenship.

"You must meet all eligibility requirements before applying for naturalization."

Certificate of Naturalization

The official document that proves a person is a U.S. citizen through the naturalization process.

"After taking the Oath of Allegiance, you will receive your Certificate of Naturalization."

Permanent Resident

A non-citizen who has been granted authorization to live and work in the United States permanently.

"You must have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years before applying for citizenship."

Green Card

The common name for the identification card issued to permanent residents.

"You will need to bring your Green Card to the naturalization interview."

Lawful Presence

Being in the United States with valid documentation and permission.

"Your Green Card proves your lawful presence in the United States."

Continuous Residence

Living in the United States without leaving for extended periods.

"You must maintain continuous residence in the U.S. for 5 years before applying for citizenship."

Physical Presence

The actual time spent within the United States.

"You must have at least 30 months of physical presence in the U.S. during the five-year period."

Deportation

The formal removal of a non-citizen from the United States.

"A person with a serious criminal record may face deportation proceedings."

Good Moral Character

Conduct that meets the standards of average citizens in a community; a requirement for naturalization.

"Applicants must demonstrate good moral character during the required period of residence."

Felony

A serious crime, usually punishable by imprisonment for more than one year.

"A felony conviction may affect your eligibility for citizenship."

Misdemeanor

A less serious crime, usually punishable by less than a year in jail.

"Even misdemeanor convictions must be reported on your naturalization application."

Criminal Record

An official history of arrests, charges, and convictions.

"You must disclose your complete criminal record when applying for citizenship."

Tax Compliance

Following tax laws by filing returns and paying taxes when required.

"Tax compliance is an important aspect of demonstrating good moral character."

Probation

A period of supervision as an alternative to imprisonment.

"If you are currently on probation for a felony, you may need to wait until it's completed before applying."

Constitution

The supreme law of the United States that provides the framework for the government.

"The Constitution establishes the three branches of government."

Bill of Rights

The first ten amendments to the Constitution that guarantee basic rights.

"The First Amendment in the Bill of Rights protects freedom of speech and religion."

Executive Branch

The part of government led by the President that enforces laws.

"The President heads the executive branch of the U.S. government."

Legislative Branch

The part of government that makes laws, consisting of Congress.

"The legislative branch includes the Senate and House of Representatives."

Judicial Branch

The part of government that interprets laws and includes the courts.

"The Supreme Court is the highest court in the judicial branch."

Checks and Balances

The system that allows each branch of government to limit the powers of the other branches.

"Checks and balances prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful."

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