Naturalization Statistics USA
What to Know About US Naturalization Statistics in 2025
Naturalization is an exciting process for immigrants who want to make their home permanently in the United States. Whether you’re considering applying for citizenship or simply want to understand the naturalization process, it’s helpful to understand the current citizenship trends in the USA. While the US naturalization statistics for 2025 aren’t yet available, the 2024 information is just as valuable. Learn more about naturalization and how to interpret today’s statistics.
What Is Naturalization in the United States?
Before we dive into immigration and citizenship statistics, let’s take a closer look at naturalization. In short, it’s the legal process foreign nationals undergo to become full US citizens. Unlike those who acquire citizenship by birth, naturalized citizens earn their status through a rigorous application process.
Naturalization typically begins after an individual has been a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for at least five years. During this period, applicants must meet a range of requirements, including continuous physical presence in the United States.
Why Naturalization Matters for Immigrants
Naturalization means immigrants can fully participate in American civic life. For many permanent residents, citizenship is the final step in their immigration journey and ultimately provides long-term security for themselves and their families. Naturalized citizens are also protected from deportation and may have more career opportunities and travel freedom. Beyond that, a newly minted American citizen will enjoy these privileges:
Eligibility for some forms of federal financial aid
Access to federal social services
Consular protection when traveling abroad
Ability to run for public office
How Is Naturalization Different From Permanent Residency?
Permanent residents enjoy many of the same rights as US citizens, and lots of immigrants are happy to maintain this status. However, there are plenty of differences between permanent residency and naturalization that make earning citizenship attractive. Naturalized citizens earn these privileges that permanent residents don’t have:
Voting Rights—Only naturalized and natural-born US citizens can vote in federal elections, including presidential and congressional races.
Travel Flexibility—Citizens can travel abroad for extended periods without risking their status, while permanent residents may face complications if they remain outside the country for more than six months.
Government Employment—Many federal jobs require US citizenship, and citizens have access to more career opportunities in government service.
Family Immigration—US citizens can petition for additional family members to immigrate, including parents, married children, and siblings.
Diving into Naturalization Rates by Year
US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) features 2024 naturalization statistics on its website and provides insights into citizenship trends in the US. The data shows that in the fiscal year 2024, over 800,000 people became new citizens. This is a 7% decrease from 2023, but in general, application approvals have risen post-COVID. 95% of people who take the naturalization test and re-exam pass.
Immigrants from Mexico made up the largest share of naturalized citizens in 2024, at 13%. India came in second, making up just over 6% of the pool. Nearly one third (29.6%) of the newly naturalized citizens were family-based, while 11.9% came through employment-based channels. The current naturalization demographics in the USA show the most promising results for family members of US citizens. Still, high approval rates are a good sign for all kinds of immigrants.
What to Know Before Applying for Citizenship
If you’re considering naturalization, we recommend getting familiar with the requirements. This knowledge will help streamline your application process and increase your likelihood of approval. You’ll need to check these boxes to become a US citizen:
Residency Requirements—To apply for naturalization, you must have been a permanent resident for at least five years (or three years if married to a US citizen). You must also have been physically present in the US for at least half that time.
English Proficiency—Most applicants must demonstrate the ability to read, write, and speak basic English.
Civics Knowledge—Get studying! The naturalization test includes questions about US history and civics, but you can find study materials via USCIS or other online resources.
Good Moral Character—Applicants should be able to demonstrate good moral character during their residency period. This includes having no serious criminal history and meeting tax obligations.
Schedule an Interview—Later in the naturalization process, you’ll need to sit for an interview with an official from USCIS. Be prepared to answer questions about your application and background.
Attend a Ceremony—At your naturalization ceremony, you’ll take the Oath of Allegiance. Congratulations, you’re now a US citizen!
Let Us Help on Your Journey Toward Citizenship
Becoming a naturalized citizen is exciting, but it’s also an overwhelming, complex process. At Hurtubise Weber Law LLP, we’re dedicated to helping immigrants from numerous countries and backgrounds start the naturalization process. We’ll be at your side every step of the way, answering your questions and keeping you informed of your progress. Contact us today to consult with a seasoned legal professional in San Francisco and San Jose, CA.