Residence
5 yrs
Via marriage
~3 yrs
By descent
Parent
Dual citizenship
Allowed
Naturalisation by residence
5 years as a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), with at least 30 months physically present in the US and 3 months in your state or USCIS district.
Through marriage
3 years as a permanent resident if you have been married to, and living with, a US citizen for those 3 years.
By descent (ancestry)
Children born abroad to a US citizen parent usually acquire citizenship at birth if the parent meets US residence or physical presence requirements. There is no general route through grandparents.
Language & tests
English test (reading, writing, speaking) and a US civics test.
Dual citizenship
US law does not require you to give up another nationality, although the oath includes a renunciation statement. Check whether your other country allows dual citizenship.
Investment
No direct citizenship by investment. The EB-5 investor program leads to a green card, and citizenship can follow after 5 years.
Frequently asked questions
How many years does it take to get United States citizenship?
The standard requirement is 5 years. 5 years as a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), with at least 30 months physically present in the US and 3 months in your state or USCIS district.
Does United States allow dual citizenship?
Allowed. US law does not require you to give up another nationality, although the oath includes a renunciation statement. Check whether your other country allows dual citizenship.
Can I get United States citizenship through marriage?
3 years as a permanent resident if you have been married to, and living with, a US citizen for those 3 years.
Can I get United States citizenship through my parents or grandparents?
Children born abroad to a US citizen parent usually acquire citizenship at birth if the parent meets US residence or physical presence requirements. There is no general route through grandparents.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Requirements change and individual circumstances matter; confirm with USCIS – Citizenship or a qualified immigration lawyer before applying.