The first step in the naturalization process is to determine if an individual is eligible for citizenship. (See eligibility requirements on the USCIS Web site, http://uscis.gov/graphics/services/natz/index.htm.) Students will need to gather their documents, have two photographs taken, and be prepared to pay the appropriate fees. They may download the Forms and Fees document from the USCIS Web site. They will need to gather the following documents-- their Social Security card; their U.S. Residency card and a list of their residences for the past 5 years; their work or school history; a list of trips outside the United States of 24 hours or more; information on their spouse, including their spouse's Social Security number, date of birth, and date of citizenship; date of marriage to their spouse and informatio n on prior marriages; information on their children, including the dates and countries of their birth, their current address, school and work affiliations, and arrest history.

If the individuals are determined eligible, they can apply for citizenship. When applicants have sent in their completed application and fees, they will receive an appointment letter from USCIS. They will need to get their fingerprints taken, wait for their scheduled interview and go to the local office at the specified time, and take the English and civics tests. After passing the tests, they are ready for the final step.

The final step to receiving citizenship is to take the oath of allegiance. Applicants will check in at their assigned location for the naturalization ceremony. There, they turn in their Permanent Resident Card, answer any further questions, take the oath, and receive their Certificate of Naturalization.

Please note that the USCIS is in the process of redesigning the citizenship test. The new test should be implemented in late 2006.

Conclusion

In order to have access to the full range of U.S. government sponsored services, adult English language learners need to consider becoming U.S. citizens. Keeping in mind that they are not immigration specialists or legal advisors, ESL instructors can play an important role by helping learners achieve the English language competency and obtain the content knowledge they need to pass the citizenship exam.