Wondering how someone with a green card becomes a U.S. citizen? The naturalization process is the legal application and review system that lets an eligible non-citizen become a citizen after meeting federal requirements. In most cases, that means having lawful permanent resident status, living in the United States for a required period, showing good moral character, passing English and civics tests, and taking the Oath of Allegiance. The process is handled by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services under the Immigration and Nationality Act.

Practically, naturalization can change a person's legal rights in major ways. A citizen can vote, get a U.S. passport, petition for more family members, and no longer face removal from the country based on many issues that can affect a green card holder. The process also involves background checks, an interview, and careful review of travel history, criminal history, tax issues, and prior immigration records.

For an injury claim, immigration status can affect how secure a person feels about filing a case, reporting unsafe work, or pursuing benefits after an accident. Becoming a citizen may remove some of that fear and make it easier to deal with insurers, employers, and government agencies. In Vermont, there is no separate state naturalization system; the process is federal, even when an injury or workers' compensation dispute is being handled through the Vermont Department of Labor.