How to Get a US Passport If You Have a Green Card

If you’re a Green Card holder looking to get a US passport, there’s a crucial detail you need to understand: a Green Card alone does not grant you citizenship, and without citizenship, you cannot obtain a US passport. However, if you’re a Green Card holder aspiring to achieve this goal, this article will guide you through the necessary steps to transition from permanent residency to US citizenship, and eventually, to obtaining a US passport.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into the process, let’s clarify what a Green Card and a US passport represent. A Green Card, or Permanent Resident Card, grants you the right to live and work in the United States permanently. However, it does not confer citizenship. A US passport, on the other hand, is issued to US citizens and provides proof of citizenship, allowing international travel and re-entry into the United States.

Step 1: Become a US Citizen

1.1 Meet the Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for US citizenship, you must first meet certain eligibility requirements:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
• Residency: You need to be a permanent resident for at least 5 years (3 years if married to a US citizen).
• Physical Presence: You must have been physically present in the US for at least half of the last 5 years.
• Good Moral Character: You must demonstrate good moral character during the residency period.
• English and Civics Test: You must be able to speak, read, and write in English and pass a civics test about US history and government.

1.2 Apply for Naturalization

The naturalization process involves submitting Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. Here’s a simplified breakdown:

• Complete the Form: Fill out Form N-400, providing accurate personal information and details about your residency.
• Gather Documents: Prepare and submit necessary documents, such as your Green Card, passport-sized photos, and evidence of your residency.
• Pay the Fee: The application fee for Form N-400 is currently $725, which includes a $640 application fee and an $85 biometric fee.
• Submit Your Application: Send your completed form and documents to the USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services).

1.3 Attend the Biometrics Appointment

After your application is received, you will be scheduled for a biometrics appointment. At this appointment, your fingerprints and photograph will be taken for background checks.

1.4 Complete the Interview and Test

You will be scheduled for an interview with a USCIS officer. During this interview, you will answer questions about your application and take the English and civics tests.

1.5 Wait for a Decision

Once the interview is complete, you will wait for USCIS to make a decision on your application. If approved, you will be invited to a naturalization ceremony.

1.6 Take the Oath of Allegiance

To finalize your citizenship, you must take the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony. After taking the oath, you will receive your Certificate of Naturalization, officially marking your status as a US citizen.

Step 2: Apply for a US Passport

Once you are a US citizen, you can apply for a US passport. Here’s how:

2.1 Gather Required Documents

For your passport application, you will need:

• Proof of US Citizenship: Your Certificate of Naturalization.
• Identification: A valid ID such as a driver’s license.
• Passport Photos: Two passport-sized photos that meet the US passport photo requirements.
• Form DS-11: Application for a US Passport. This form must be completed and submitted in person.

2.2 Submit Your Application

You must apply for your passport in person at a passport acceptance facility. This can include post offices, some public libraries, or court facilities.

2.3 Pay the Passport Fee

The fee for a US passport is currently $130 for adults applying for a standard passport. Expedited services are available for an additional fee.

2.4 Track Your Application

After submission, you can track the status of your passport application online. Processing times can vary, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of any planned international travel.

Conclusion

While holding a Green Card is an important step towards becoming a US citizen, it’s just the beginning of a journey to obtaining a US passport. By following the steps outlined above—becoming a citizen through the naturalization process and then applying for a passport—you’ll be able to enjoy the full benefits of US citizenship, including the ability to travel internationally with a US passport. This process may seem daunting, but with careful preparation and patience, you’ll be able to achieve your goal.