{"id":352756,"date":"2022-08-19T07:42:46","date_gmt":"2022-08-19T12:42:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ability-fl-prod.internetbrands.com\/ability-law\/immigration\/citizenship\/the-basics-of-naturalization.html"},"modified":"2026-04-20T15:41:00","modified_gmt":"2026-04-20T20:41:00","slug":"the-basics-of-naturalization","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/citizenship\/the-basics-of-naturalization.html","title":{"rendered":"The Basics of Naturalization"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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The Basics of Naturalization<\/h1>\n\n
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\n By Meagan Neil, Esq.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Meagan Neil, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n

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Key Takeaways<\/h2>\n

Naturalization is the legal process through which a foreign citizen or national can become a U.S. citizen. To be naturalized, applicants must first meet specific criteria. Understanding the eligibility rules and each step of the process can help you prepare for a successful naturalization application.<\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

This criteria having a green card. The green card allows a foreign national to have\u00a0<\/span>lawful permanent residence<\/a> in the United States. Individuals may get this status through many types of visas, including employment-based or family visas.<\/p>\n

The naturalization process involves:<\/p>\n