The Utah Citizenship Initiative (UCI) helps communities around the state learn about resources to help lawful permanent residents become naturalized. Through strategic partners and local expertise, the Center for Global Talent and New Americans at the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity aims to increase naturalization rates, help immigrants integrate into Utah’s economy and society, and create a statewide model for success.
The initiative highlights the economic and social benefits of citizenship, educates people about available resources, and connects areas around the state with online and hybrid citizenship preparation classes and legal services. The Citizenship Hub is a centralized source of information for local and lawful permanent residents to learn more about becoming U.S. citizens.
- Approximately 8.9% of people living in Utah were born in another country, and 5.9% of U.S.-born residents have at least one immigrant parent. Access the full study here.
- Immigrants comprise 11.8% of Utah's workforce and support the state's economy. Access the full study here.
- Over 80,000 foreign-born residents in Utah are eligible or may become eligible to become naturalized U.S. citizens. Check out the eligible-to-naturalize data available from USCIS.
- Naturalization raises the earning potential of immigrants by 9 and 13% in women and between 7 and 9% in men. Access the full study here.
- Increased earnings of naturalized immigrants are estimated to generate additional local and state tax revenue (sales, property, and income) between $100 and $600 million over ten years. Access the full study here.
- 1Step 1: Determine if You Are Already a U.S. CitizenWhat to do: If you weren’t born a U.S. citizen or didn’t automatically acquire citizenship from your parents, go to the next step.
- 2Step 2: Check Your Eligibility for Naturalization
What to do: Use the Naturalization Eligibility Worksheet to see if you can apply for U.S. citizenship.
Utah Citizenship Initiative: Are you ready to become a U.S. Citizen? START HERE
- 3Step 3: Prepare and Review Your Form N-400
What to do:
- Fill out Form N-400 online after creating your free account.
- Collect all required documents. If you live outside the U.S., also provide two passport-style photos.
- Review the document checklist to ensure you have everything ready.
- Visit a legal professional to review your form.
- 4Step 4: Submit Your N-400 and Pay FeesWhat to do: File your N-400 and pay the fees online. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will send you a receipt, and you can check your status and processing times on their website.
- 5Step 5: Prepare for the Citizenship TestWhat to do: Study for the test, including up to 10 questions from a list of 100. You need at least six correct answers to pass. Look for local classes and resources to help you prepare.
- 6Step 6: Attend Your Biometrics Appointment (if applicable)What to do: If biometrics are needed, USCIS will send you an appointment notice with the date, time, and location. Please be on time for your biometrics appointment.
- 7Step 7: Complete the InterviewWhat to do: Once your paperwork is processed, USCIS will schedule an interview.
- 8Step 8: Receive a Decision on Your N-400
What to expect:
- Approved: USCIS approves your application. All requirements have been met.
- Continued: You may need to submit more documents or retake the test.
- Denied: If you're not eligible, USCIS will deny your application.
- 9Step 9: Receive Notice for the Oath of AllegianceWhat to do: If approved, you’ll either take the oath the same day as your interview or get a mailed notice with the date and location of your naturalization ceremony.
- 10Step 10: Take the Oath of Allegiance
What to do:
- Complete Form N-445, the Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony.
- Attend the ceremony, turn in your Green Card, and take the Oath of Allegiance.
- Receive your Certificate of Naturalization and verify its accuracy before leaving.
