The process of getting promoted to the status of citizens from the rank of aliens is referred to as naturalization. However the 'promotion' factor is not true in many cases. Many people just go through the process of naturalization due to undesirable circumstances.
As for naturalization in the United States, there are particular steps in the entire process to become a United States citizen. The first and most basic step is to file a Declaration of Intention with the immigration authorities that expresses the individual's desire to be called and treated as a United States citizen and enjoy all the rights that all citizens of the United States enjoy. However for taking the next step towards naturalization, immigrants have to stay at least three or five years in the United States (the former stay limit is the case when the individual is married to a United States citizen). During this period, people take different classes in language, American history and civics to prepare for citizenship. And after the period has passed, the individual may file an application for naturalization. For this, one must be at least 18 years old. A government agency reviews the application thoroughly to confirm that the information is complete and true. In case of an approval, the person is forwarded to an immigration examiner, whose job is to determine whether the person is qualified enough for citizenship or not. If the examiner is satisfied, the final step is a brief court appearance where the individual takes an oath of loyalty to the United States, which makes him / her a United States citizen.
As for naturalization in the United States, there are particular steps in the entire process to become a United States citizen. The first and most basic step is to file a Declaration of Intention with the immigration authorities that expresses the individual's desire to be called and treated as a United States citizen and enjoy all the rights that all citizens of the United States enjoy. However for taking the next step towards naturalization, immigrants have to stay at least three or five years in the United States (the former stay limit is the case when the individual is married to a United States citizen). During this period, people take different classes in language, American history and civics to prepare for citizenship. And after the period has passed, the individual may file an application for naturalization. For this, one must be at least 18 years old. A government agency reviews the application thoroughly to confirm that the information is complete and true. In case of an approval, the person is forwarded to an immigration examiner, whose job is to determine whether the person is qualified enough for citizenship or not. If the examiner is satisfied, the final step is a brief court appearance where the individual takes an oath of loyalty to the United States, which makes him / her a United States citizen.
