Applying for UK Citizenship

• 1). Check that you meet the eligibility requirements. There are many different ways you can become eligible to be a UK citizen, but the easiest way is if you've been living in the UK for the past five years (or three, if you're married to a citizen). After that point you can apply for naturalization, which is the term for becoming a citizen of the country.
  
  
• 2). Pass the "Life in the UK" test. This is a test to show that you understand UK culture and would be able to integrate into life in the country. If you have been living in the UK or are married to a UK citizen, you are likely to have a sufficient understanding of British culture, but it is advisable to visit the test's website (see Resources).
  
  
• 3). Fill out the "AN" form to apply for naturalization. You will need to provide documentation, such as your passport, to support your application. If you don't have your passport, there are several forms of alternative documentation that is acceptable.
  
  
• 4). Locate your nearest British Consulate or Embassy and contact them. You will need to submit the completed form to them to be forwarded on to the UK Border Agency. If you are in the UK, the address for the form is on the Border Agency's website (see Resources).
  
  
• 5). Gain residence in the UK if you are not eligible to apply for citizenship. You can do this by finding work in the UK and getting your employer to sponsor you. Alternatively, you can be allowed to visit the country to study. You can also fill out form SET (M) if you are in a relationship with a current UK resident. This is an application for "Indefinite Leave to Remain" in the UK, and if your application is accepted, you can then apply for citizenship after living in the country for five years.
  
  

Applying for U.S. Citizenship

• 1). Check you meet the eligibility requirements. They are quite similar to the UK requirements, in that you have to be over 18 and have been living in the U.S. for five years. This is shortened to three if you have been married to a citizen. You can then start your application for naturalization.
  
  
• 2). Fill out form "N-400." This is the "Application for Naturalization" form. This is available on the USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) website (see Resources). The address to send the form changes depending on the state you live in, and is on the same page as the form.
  
  
• 3). Get your fingerprints taken at a USCIS facility. The locations of these facilities are available online (see Resources). Once you have done this, you will have an appointment scheduled for your naturalization interview.
  
  
• 4). Attend your scheduled interview. At this interview, you will have to complete the "Naturalization Test." This is to determine that you have a sufficient understanding of U.S. culture and language.
  
  
• 5). Apply for a "Green Card" if you don't meet the eligibility requirements to apply for naturalization. This is essentially a permit to live and work in the U.S. You can find information of how to do this online (see Resources).