Only those age 18 or older can apply for naturalization. After that, the first requirement for anyone who wishes to become a naturalized U.S. citizen is residency. An applicant for naturalization must have been an LPR for at least five years. At least half of that time must have been spent continuously in the United States. The applicant cannot have spent more than one continuous year outside the United States during his or her permanent residency and must have lived in the current state or district of residence for at least three months.

The applicant must be able to read and write basic English, and, not surprisingly, must be favorably disposed toward the United States. Moreover, he or she must be deemed to possess “good moral character.” People who fail to meet this requirement include the following:

• Those who have committed a crime, whether against an individual, property, or the government
• Those who have a record of substance abuse (alcohol and other drugs)
• Anyone involved in illegal gambling or prostitution
• Anyone who practices polygamy
• Anyone who has violated a court order to pay alimony or child support
• Anyone who has lied to gain immigrant benefits
• Anyone who has persecuted others (based on race, religion, national origin, or political opinion) while a resident of the United States
• Anyone who has been deported
• Anyone who has spent more that 180 days in jail