US Citizenship is obtained by birth in the US, by being born the son or daughter of US Citizen or by a process known as naturalization.

Generally, Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR) of the US are eligible to apply for naturalization after lawfully holding permanent residency in the US for a period of 5 years.

Other basic requirements of naturalization include, but are not limited to the following:

• admitted lawfully for permanent residence;
• residing continuously as a LPR in the U.S. for at least 5 years prior to filing;
• 18 years of age or older;
  
• physically present in the US for no less than 30 months out of the previous 5 years; and
  
• additional requirements apply.
  

Good Moral Character

An person must show that (s)he has been a person of good moral character. For example, a person is permanently barred from naturalization if (s)he has been convicted of murder or been convicted of an aggravated felony. 

Applicants for naturalization must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English.

A person for naturalization must demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the basics of US history and of the principles of the US Government.

Oath of Allegiance

A person must take the oath of allegiance to the US to become a US citizen.  The oath includes provisions

• of support for the US Constitution
  
• of obedience of the laws of the U.S.;
• against any foreign allegiance and foreign title; and
• to fight for the US Armed Forces or to perform services for the US Government when required.