U.S. Citizenship Applications Surge in 2025—Why More Green Card Holders Are Choosing Naturalization

In 2025, citizenship applications are rising sharply as permanent residents seek greater security, voting rights, and freedom from green card renewals. Filing Form N-400 offers long-term stability, but delays and stricter requirements mean planning ahead is more important than ever.

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Why Citizenship Is More Popular in 2025

Green card holders have always had the option to stay permanent residents. But in 2025, many are choosing citizenship through naturalization instead. Why?

• Political uncertainty has pushed residents to secure full rights.

• Travel flexibility is greater for U.S. citizens.

• Work opportunities often expand with citizenship.

• No more renewals: Citizenship is permanent; no Form I-90 filings every 10 years.

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The Role of Form N-400

To apply for citizenship, eligible permanent residents file Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization). This is a detailed application requiring proof of continuous residence, good moral character, and English and civics knowledge.

Applicants must also provide biometrics and attend an interview. For many, the oath of allegiance ceremony marks the end of the process and the beginning of U.S. citizenship.

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Benefits of Becoming a U.S. Citizen

• Voting rights: Citizens can participate in elections at every level.

• Protection from deportation: Citizenship cannot be revoked for most reasons.

• Eligibility for federal jobs and benefits: Certain careers require citizenship.

• Petitioning family members: Citizens can sponsor more relatives, including parents and siblings.

• Freedom to travel: U.S. passports allow entry to over 180 countries.

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Who Is Eligible to Apply?

The most common eligibility pathways include:

• Five years as a permanent resident.

• Three years as a permanent resident if married to and living with a U.S. citizen.

• Service in the U.S. military.

Applicants must also meet continuous residence and physical presence requirements, demonstrate good moral character, and pass English and civics tests.

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Delays in Processing Naturalization Cases

In 2025, naturalization applications are taking 12–18 months in many jurisdictions. USCIS has reported surging case volumes, leading to:

• Longer waits for interviews.

• More detailed background checks.

• Stricter review of criminal or immigration history.

Applicants should file early if they want citizenship in time for upcoming elections or life events.

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Common Challenges in N-400 Filings

• Criminal history: Even minor offenses can create complications.

• Extended trips abroad: Absences of more than six months may disrupt continuous residence requirements.

• Failure to register for selective service: Males between 18 and 26 must comply.

• Incomplete applications: Missing documents or details often trigger delays.

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The Interview and Civics Test

Applicants must attend an in-person interview, where USCIS officers will:

• Review the N-400 form in detail.

• Ask questions about background and eligibility.

• Administer the English test (reading, writing, speaking).

• Administer the civics test, requiring 6 out of 10 correct answers from a pool of 100.

With preparation, most applicants pass, but nervousness and language barriers can make the experience stressful.

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Why Many Choose Citizenship Over Renewals

Every 10 years, green card holders must renew by filing Form I-90, paying fees, and waiting through backlogs. With fees rising and delays growing, many residents decide it is better to apply for citizenship once and avoid renewals altogether.

Citizenship is permanent, while green card renewals are not.

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Conclusion

In 2025, more green card holders are recognizing the value of naturalization. While the process takes time and requires careful preparation, the benefits of U.S. citizenship—security, rights, and freedom—far outweigh the challenges of remaining a permanent resident.

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FAQs (Quick Answers)

How long does it take to get U.S. citizenship in 2025?

Most cases take 12–18 months, depending on the USCIS field office.

Can I apply for citizenship after three years with a green card?

Yes, if you are married to and living with a U.S. citizen spouse.

Do I have to take the English and civics test?

Yes, unless you qualify for an exemption due to age or disability.

What happens if I fail the test?

You will get a second chance to retake the failed portion.

Is it better to renew my green card or apply for citizenship?

For many, applying for citizenship is the smarter long-term option since it eliminates renewals.

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If you are a green card holder considering your next step, now may be the time to apply for citizenship. Our office guides clients through every stage of the N-400 process—from preparing strong applications to interview coaching.

📞 Call us at +1 561.600.1166, schedule a consultation at calendly.com/imm-law, or message us on WhatsApp at https://wa.link/2liwjz to begin your journey to U.S. citizenship.