Naturalization

• According to the USCIS, an immigrant may become naturalized after being a permanent resident in the United States for at least five years (three years if married to a U.S. citizen) and passing the naturalization test. Minors may obtain citizenship through their naturalized parents.
  
  

History

• Before Sept. 30, 1991, certificates of naturalization were issued to individuals by the federal courts and certain state courts. On Oct. 1, 1991, certificates of naturalization came under the USCIS purview.
  
  

Uses

• A certificate of naturalization holder may use the document to apply for an American passport, certificate of U.S. citizenship (Form N-600) and other government documents.
  
  

Ceremony

• The USCIS awards certificates of naturalization to new citizens during a naturalization oath ceremony, in which naturalized citizens pledge their allegiance to the U.S. and officially obtain American nationality.
  
  

Replacement

• If a person's certificate of naturalization is destroyed, incorrect or lost, she may file for a replacement through the USCIS by using Form N-565.