Citizenship & Naturalization
Get started on your journey towards becoming a U.S. Citizen today!
Become a Citizen!
Becoming a U.S. citizen is one of the most important steps you can take as a New American to provide stability, protection, and opportunity for you and your family. You should begin your application as soon as you are eligible or learn what is required to become eligible for U.S. citizenship.
The International Institute of Minnesota is here to help you in this process.
We offer free appointments for Minneapolis city residents.
Fill out a form to get started with citizenship
Do you need help with other immigration forms and services? Learn more
Why Citizenship?
Becoming a U.S. citizen has many advantages. Some of the benefits of citizenship include:
- Travel freely with a U.S. passport and live outside the U.S.
- Vote in elections and run for elected office
- Obtain citizenship for your eligible children under 18 years of age
- Apply for federal jobs
- Bring family members to the U.S.
- Obtain government benefits
- Become eligible for federal grants and scholarships
- Serve on a federal jury
- Feel a sense of community knowing you’re a permanent citizen of the U.S.
Frequently Asked Questions
• Lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) of five years or eligible child of a U.S. citizen
• Married to a U.S. citizen and lawful permanent resident for three years
• U.S. military service member (active duty or veteran)
To learn about additional eligibility requirements, go to: https://www.uscis.gov/citizenship/learn-about-citizenship
- Citizenship (N400)
- Citizenship Appeal/Hearing on Decision (N336)
- Citizenship through Parent (N600)
- Replacement of Citizenship Certificate (N565)
Depending on the type of representation, our fees are usually between $85-$600.
The citizenship process varies depending on where you live in the United States and the current immigration processing times.
To see how long the process takes in your area, check USCIS Processing Times. Under “Form,” scroll down and click “N-400.” Under “Field Office,” pick the office near you.
The first thing you need to do is make sure you are eligible to apply.
Call our office to complete an eligibility screening with one of our staff to see if you are eligible at 651-377-8642. When you call, please leave one voicemail message. We will return your call within 1-2 business days.
Please collect the necessary documents for your citizenship application. Use the document checklist to make sure you have everything you need.
Once your application is submitted to USCIS you will:
- Complete your biometrics appointment, if applicable
- Complete the naturalization interview and test at USCIS
- Receive a decision from USCIS
- Take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States
Yes. We have access to interpreters and staff who speak different languages. You are also welcome to bring your own interpreter.
The majority of citizenship applicants have to speak English in order to become a U.S. citizen and we encourage you to practice speaking English to prepare for the interview.
Applying for U.S. citizenship in Minnesota
Convertirse en un ciudadano de Estados Unidos
What Our Clients Are Saying
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When I took the oath I was so relieved. Finally, I’m going to be part of this country. This is really my home now.
Coraima
Became a U.S. Citizen in 2024
Read Coraima’s Story -
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The day I became a citizen I was so excited and so happy. We became citizens so we can work and travel … and it can protect us.
Nang
Became a U.S. Citizen in 2018
Watch Nang’s Story -
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When [we were eligible for citizenship], International Institute send us a message, ‘It’s your time to apply for citizenship.’ We’re like, ‘They are there for us. We don’t need to worry,When you are a citizen you feel like you are stable.
Alice
Became a U.S. Citizen in 2025
Watch Alice’s Story -
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I feel so excited to get citizenship in this country with a lot of opportunities. I’m very happy.
Shalom
Became a U.S. Citizen in 2024
Read Shalom’s Story -
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I was happy and bless God for giving me the opportunity to become an American citizen. Citizenship is the great equalizer. I’m so blessed to be a citizen.
Ethel
Became a U.S. Citizen in 2023
Read Ethel’s Story
We offer Citizenship classes
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Citizenship Class
Prepare for the U.S. citizenship test and interview in this class. For students with beginning English skills.
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English
Learn how to read, write and speak English. From literacy to pre-college readiness, we teach all levels of adult English classes.
Our Reach
We assist over 3,000 refugees, asylees, and immigrants with citizenship and immigration help each year. We believe that investing in the success of immigrants is an investment in the success of the community and the state of Minnesota.
Thanks to support from generous donors and volunteers, our Immigration Services team achieved several milestones:
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Success Rate
for our citizenship clients.
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New Americans
became U.S. citizens with the Institute’s help since 2001.
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Saved
by Institute clients on citizenship application fees to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services last year.
Funding
Funding for Citizenship & Immigration Services comes from the Institute’s generous donors, and includes grants from:
Have questions?
Call us if you have an immigration question.
Immigration
(651) 377-8642
Citizenship Help
Please fill out the form below. We will be in touch with you in 1-2 business days
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