Citizenship Campaign

Becoming a U.S. citizen can bring added financial security for individuals and their families, making communities stronger. (The Economic Impact of Naturalization on Immigrants and Cities, Urban Institute, 2015)

Resource map

Check out this resource map of where to get legal help, financial help, free citizenship classes and free English classes.

The process

To become a naturalized citizen, you apply to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Who is eligible

You must meet the following general eligibility requirements to apply for naturalization and become a U.S. citizen:

You are at least 18 years of age at time of filing;
You have been a permanent resident for the past three or five years (depending on the provision of law under which you are eligible to naturalize);
You demonstrate continuous residence and physical presence in the United States;
You are able to read, write, and speak basic English;
You demonstrate good moral character;
You demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of U.S. history and government;
You demonstrate a loyalty to the principles of the U.S. Constitution; and
You are willing to take the Oath of Allegiance.

For detailed information and exceptions, including special provisions for those who have served in the U.S. military, please see USCIS Policy Manual Citizenship and Naturalization Guidance.

How to apply

Complete Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. Submit the completed form, supporting documentation, and a filing fee of $640 plus a biometric services fee of $85 for applicants under age 75. Visit the USCIS website for forms and instructions. If you need help completing your application, you can find an immigration attorney through the American Immigration Lawyers Association’s Referral Service.

How to request a fee reduction

As of December 23, 2016, applicants whose household incomes are greater than 150% but less than 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines can request a reduced fee using Form I-942.

Persons in family/household	2016 federal poverty guideline	150% of guideline	200% of guideline
For families/households with more than 8 persons, add $4,160 for each additional person.
1	$11,880	$17,820	$23,760
2	$16,020	$24,030	$32,040
3	$20,160	$30,240	$40,320
4	$24,300	$36,450	$48,600
5	$28,440	$42,660	$56,880
6	$32,580	$48,870	$65,160
7	$36,730	$55,095	$73,460
8	$40,890	$61,335	$81,780

Preparing for the English and citizenship tests

Pima Community College offers free citizenship classes at various locations. Contact the Adult Basic Education For College & Career division at (520) 206-3987 or [email protected] for more information.

Classes for English language learners are available through Pima Community College, the University of Arizona and Literacy Connects. (Literacy Connects classes are free. Non-credit Pima classes are also free. Both Pima and Literacy Connects have day and evening classes at various locations throughout the community.)

Curious what’s on the citizenship test? You can take a practice test here.

Financial help

Vantage West Credit Union offers citizenship loans up to $1,500 to help cover application fees, class fees, and other costs associated with applying to become a naturalized citizen.

Legal help

If you need help completing your application, or with other immigration issues, you can find an immigration attorney through the American Immigration Lawyers Association’s Referral Service. Also, check out the City of Tucson Resource Guide for Immigrant Families.

I would like to help others become U.S. citizens

Contact Literacy Connects or Pima Community College to learn about becoming a citizenship and/or English language instructor. For more ways to help, contact Chicanos Por La Causa.