Naturalization
Naturalization is the process of becoming a United States citizen. Any immigrant who has maintained permanent residency (green card) status for at least four years and nine months or has been married to a U.S. citizen for at least two years and nine months may apply for naturalization. In applying for naturalization, an immigrant must establish his or her qualifications, including residency, good moral character, and the ability to speak, read, and write English.
Naturalization provides certain benefits over permanent residency, including the ability to vote, not having to worry about deportation if you violate the law, the ability to travel outside the U.S. for extended periods without jeopardizing your residency status, and the ability to petition to have family members immigrate to the U.S.