How Long Does It Take to Get U.S. Citizenship?

Imagine holding the coveted blue passport, finally gaining the full rights and responsibilities of a U.S. citizen. But how long does that dream take to realize? The answer isn’t as simple as you’d hope, and it depends on several key factors: your current immigration status, where you live, and even the backlog at your local USCIS office.

The road to U.S. citizenship is often paved with bureaucracy and waiting, and Reddit’s personal anecdotes paint a detailed picture of the highs and lows experienced by those who have walked this path. On average, the process can take anywhere from 8 months to 2 years, but understanding the key stages and hurdles will help you plan better and manage expectations.

Naturalization Timeline Breakdown

Here’s a reverse-chronological breakdown of what the citizenship process generally looks like:

Citizenship Ceremony (1–3 months after approval): This is your final step. Once approved after the interview, you’re invited to take the Oath of Allegiance. Timelines for ceremonies vary, but most people report waiting around 1 to 3 months. In some cases, the ceremony is the same day as your approval interview.

Approval/Interview (12–18 months into the process): Most applicants report waiting between 8 to 12 months just for the interview. You’ll attend an interview with a USCIS officer who’ll ask about your application and test your English and civics knowledge. If approved, you’ll receive a notification either that day or soon after.

Biometrics Appointment (2–5 months after application submission): This is a standard appointment where your fingerprints are taken and entered into the system. Most people wait anywhere from 2 to 5 months after submitting their application to receive a biometrics appointment.

Submission of Form N-400 (Day 1): This is your starting point—the date you file your Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. Once filed, the waiting game begins.

Factors Influencing the Process Length

Where You Live: One of the most influential factors in your wait time is the USCIS office that handles your application. Reddit users frequently mention that some cities (especially larger ones like Los Angeles and New York) have longer backlogs due to higher application volumes. Smaller, less populated areas might process applications faster.

Your Immigration Status: The path to citizenship differs depending on your status. If you’re applying as a green card holder who obtained permanent residency through marriage or employment, your timeline might differ from someone who obtained a visa through asylum or refugee status.

COVID-19 Backlog: The pandemic added significant delays to almost all government processes, and naturalization was no exception. Redditors frequently discuss delays caused by USCIS office closures and rescheduling, which have added months to what might have otherwise been quicker timelines.

Reddit Anecdotes: Real-Life Examples of Waiting Times

Reddit threads are filled with personal accounts that highlight how varied the timeline can be. Here are a few examples:

• User ‘TravelUS’: Applied in early 2020 and faced numerous delays due to COVID-19. The entire process took over 2 years, finally completing in mid-2022.
• User ‘GreenCardBlues’: Applied in late 2019 and completed their citizenship in about 14 months. They attribute the faster timeline to living in a smaller city where USCIS offices aren’t as overwhelmed.
• User ‘FastTrack123’: Applied via marriage and was approved for citizenship within 8 months. They shared that their application was processed in a relatively fast, small office.

Key Challenges and Delays

Backlog and Staffing Issues: USCIS has struggled with staffing shortages, and Reddit users point out that some offices have more resources than others. A Redditor from Dallas noted that their local office had only a few officers processing a high number of applications, leading to a 6-month delay for biometrics alone.

Incomplete Applications: Some people unknowingly delay their own process by submitting incomplete or incorrect applications. Missing documents or inaccurate information can lead to Request for Evidence (RFE), adding weeks or even months to the timeline.

Denials and Appeals: In rare cases, applications are denied. Users often discuss how even small issues, like a misunderstood question during the interview, can cause denials. If denied, you can appeal, but this adds another layer of waiting and uncertainty.

How to Speed Up the Process

Submit a Complete Application: The simplest way to avoid delays is by submitting a complete and accurate application. Check your documentation thoroughly and consider consulting an immigration attorney to ensure all forms are properly filled out.

Be Ready for Biometrics and Interviews: Stay proactive about attending appointments. Redditors frequently advise showing up early for biometrics and interview appointments to avoid any potential complications or rescheduling issues.

Check Processing Times: USCIS provides online tools to check processing times at specific offices. Regularly monitoring these can help you understand where your application stands in the queue.

Is Premium Processing an Option?

Unlike other visa categories, naturalization does not offer premium processing, which would allow applicants to pay extra for faster service. This is often a point of frustration on Reddit, as some applicants are used to having the option for employment-based visas.

Does Applying via Marriage Make the Process Faster?

If you’re married to a U.S. citizen, you may qualify for a slightly faster route to citizenship—but the difference isn’t as dramatic as some expect. While you only need 3 years of residency before applying (instead of the usual 5), the processing time for Form N-400 and interviews remains largely the same.

Final Thoughts

Obtaining U.S. citizenship is a long process, but by understanding the steps involved and being aware of potential delays, you can better prepare yourself for the wait. As Reddit users have shared, patience is key, and each person's experience can vary significantly depending on where they live and their unique circumstances. Whether you're just starting out or are already well into the process, knowing what to expect can make a world of difference in navigating the complexities of U.S. immigration.