When people come to live in a country from another country, they are known as immigrants.  Some immigrants think they can move into the United States of America and be considered an American, but this is not true.  If an immigrant wants to become an American, he/she must apply for citizenship.   There are many criteria that must be met:

·        Must be fluent in English

·        Must be at least eighteen years of age

·        Must have good morals

·        Must be loyal to the United States of America

·        Must have a basic knowledge of US history and government                            

·        Must understand the principles of the Constitution

All immigrants must have a five-year residence in a particular USCIS District before they can apply for citizenship. There is one exception to the residence rule.  If immigrants have served in the US military for at least three years, they may apply early for citizenship.   The immigrants do not have to be stationed in the U.S. They may be serving the US, but they may be stationed in other countries.   Currently, there are an estimated 28,000 immigrants serving in the US military. 

In some cases the above requirements may be waived.  For example:  if an immigrant marries a U.S. citizen, he or she would automatically become a U.S. citizen. 

When filing for citizenship, immigrants must file an N-400 form and all supporting documents through the INS.  The immigrants must have a copy of their fingerprints, two pictures, and $320.00 for the application fee.  After all these requirements are met, the immigrant must undergo a final examination and interview.  The exam and interview will contain material that covers the N-400 form, English literature, and US history.  If he/she passes, he/she will have to go to court to be sworn in and to receive his/her certification as a citizen of the United States.