Naturalization in the United States is the process through which a foreign citizen acquires American citizenship by fulfilling specific requirements set by U.S. law. The naturalization process has a “classic” form but varies significantly depending on the applicant’s personal circumstances, such as whether they are married to a U.S. citizen or have served in the U.S. military.

The typical naturalization process requires the applicant to have legally lived in the U.S. for at least five years as a permanent resident (green card holder). Additionally, the applicant must demonstrate good moral character and tax compliance, possess knowledge of English, and have basic understanding of U.S. history and government. The applicant must also pass an interview and a test, unless exempted due to disability. The process concludes with an oath of allegiance to the U.S. and the official acquisition of American citizenship.

However, there are variations in naturalization for certain categories of applicants. For foreigners married to U.S. citizens, the process is generally more favorable and faster. Spouses of U.S. citizens can apply for naturalization after three years of legal residence in the U.S., instead of five years required for other applicants. They must also prove they maintain a continuous and permanent relationship with the U.S. spouse, have good moral and tax standing, and have lived together for at least three years.

Similarly, individuals who have served at least one year in total in the U.S. military may naturalize faster and with fewer requirements. Active-duty service members do not need to meet the usual permanent residency or physical presence requirements. They can apply for naturalization even during their service, and their applications are given priority. Furthermore, military personnel may be exempt from standard interviews and tests on U.S. history and government, though they must prove their service was lawful and honorable. This process recognizes their service and strengthens the bond between the U.S. and its armed forces.

Despite the favorable procedures for spouses of U.S. citizens and military personnel, it is important to note that these apply only to specific categories of foreigners and may vary according to laws and the applicant’s particular circumstances. For example, military applicants may undergo enhanced security checks due to the nature of their service, while spouses might need to submit additional documents proving the validity of their marriage.

Overall, naturalization in the U.S. can differ significantly depending on the applicant’s personal situation. Whether as a spouse of a U.S. citizen or as a soldier, these special naturalization procedures offer substantial advantages and conveniences compared to the standard process for other foreigners.

The most important advantage of naturalization, i.e., American citizenship, compared to holding a green card is that U.S. citizens generally cannot be deported from the U.S., even if they commit offenses. Also, U.S. citizens may live outside the U.S. indefinitely without risking loss of citizenship.

Some countries, such as China, Japan, and India, do not allow dual citizenship, so acquiring U.S. citizenship automatically results in the loss of the prior citizenship. Greece, the United Kingdom, France, Canada, and most other countries do not impose such restrictions—thus, a Greek national can naturalize as a U.S. citizen while retaining Greek citizenship.