United States citizenship is obtained through the naturalization process. Naturalization is the process by which U.S. citizenship is conferred upon a foreign citizen or national after he or she fulfills the naturalization requirements.

An applicant is eligible to file if, immediately preceding the filing of the application, he or she:

• has been lawfully admitted for permanent residence (see preceding section);

• has resided continuously as a lawful permanent resident in the U.S. for at least 5 years prior to filing with absences from the United States totaling no more than one year;

• has been physically present in the United States for at least 30 months out of the previous five years (absences of more than six months but less than one year break the continuity of residence unless the applicant can establish that he or she did not abandon his or her residence during such period)

• has resided within a state or district for at least three months

Other requirements include:

* an ability to read, write, and speak English;

* a knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government;

* good moral character;

* attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution; and,

* favorable disposition toward the United States.

Generally, certain lawful permanent residents married to a U.S. citizen may file for naturalization after residing continuously in the United States for three years if immediately preceding the filing of the application:

* the applicant has been married to and living in a valid marital union with the same U.S. citizen spouse for all three years;

* the U.S. spouse has been a citizen for all three years and meets all physical presence and residence requirements; and

* the applicant meets all other naturalization requirements.

There are also exceptions for lawful permanent residents married to U.S. citizens stationed or employed abroad. Some lawful permanent residents may not have to comply with the residence or physical presence requirements when the U.S. citizen spouse is employed by one of the following:

* the U.S. Government (including the U.S. Armed Forces);

* American research institutes recognized by the Attorney General;

* recognized U.S. religious organizations;

* U.S. research institutions;

* an American firm engaged in the development of foreign trade and commerce of the United States; or

* certain public international organizations involving the United States.

For additional information and procedures please contact us at info@passintl.com.