Naturalization

Becoming a U.S. citizen is a deeply personal choice for every person. The benefits to becoming a U.S. citizen are numerous, including: the right to vote in any Federal and state election, the ability to travel with a U.S. passport, eligibility to apply for Federal jobs, and the ability to run for any elected office. Obtaining U.S. citizenship also protects most individuals from the fear of deportation, the expense that comes with renewing a green card, and the ability to bring family members to the U.S more easily.

In order to apply for U.S. citizenship, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements. The applicant must be a lawful permanent resident and have had their green card for at least 5 years (or 3 years, if married to a U.S. citizen). He/she must be a person of good moral character and not have serious criminal issues. Applicants generally cannot have taken trips outside of the U.S. for more than 6 months at one time.  He/she must also show continuous residence in the U.S. for the statutory period.  Most individuals will also have to read/write/speak basic English and pass a U.S. history and civics test.

Working in partnership with the York County Literacy Council (YCLC), PIRC was awarded dedicated funding from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to provide citizenship assistance to eligible lawful permanent residents in Pennsylvania. The Citizenship and Assimilation Grant Program has awarded more than $82 million across 38 states to organizations who have provided assistance to over 200,000 individuals as they prepare for U.S. citizenship.

This project consists of citizenship classes taught by YCLC staff and access to free naturalization application preparation provided by PIRC: