Naturalization
What does "Naturalization" mean in law?
Naturalization is the legal process by which a lawful permanent resident acquires U.S. citizenship, governed by INA sections 310-347. The applicant must satisfy statutory requirements including at least five years of continuous LPR status (three if married to a U.S. citizen), physical presence in the United States for at least half that period, good moral character, knowledge of English and U.S. civics, and an oath of allegiance. USCIS adjudicates naturalization applications (Form N-400), and federal courts retain concurrent jurisdiction to administer the oath of allegiance. Denial of a naturalization application is subject to de novo judicial review in federal district court under INA section 310(c).
Definition
Naturalization is the legal process by which a lawful permanent resident acquires U.S. citizenship, governed by INA sections 310-347. The applicant must satisfy statutory requirements including at least five years of continuous LPR status (three if married to a U.S. citizen), physical presence in the United States for at least half that period, good moral character, knowledge of English and U.S. civics, and an oath of allegiance. USCIS adjudicates naturalization applications (Form N-400), and federal courts retain concurrent jurisdiction to administer the oath of allegiance. Denial of a naturalization application is subject to de novo judicial review in federal district court under INA section 310(c).
Example
A lawful permanent resident who has resided in the United States for five years, maintained good moral character, and passed the civics and English tests takes the oath of allegiance and becomes a naturalized U.S. citizen.