Naturalization Statistics in the United States

Despite a tough, anti-immigrant climate, almost a million people are naturalized each year in the U.S. At Empowerment Legal, PLLC, we realize that citizenship is a dream for many people, but it might appear out of reach. Call our office. We can discuss whether you are eligible to become a naturalized citizen. If so, we can assist with the application process and answer any of your questions. This is a dream worth pursuing, and with the right legal help you can put your best foot forward.

How Many People Become Naturalized Citizens Each Year?

According to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the U.S. has seen:

• 818,500 people became naturalized citizens in 2024, the most recent year for which we have statistics.
• 878,500 people became naturalized citizens the year before (2023).
• The high point for naturalization was 2008 when 1,047,000 people became naturalized citizens.
• The lowest number was 604,000 in 2005.

USCIS statistics show that roughly 758,000 people have become naturalized citizens each year. The numbers fell significantly during the COVID pandemic but have rebounded since.

In total, there are roughly 25 million naturalized citizens in the U.S. currently. They make up around 50% of the entire immigration population and roughly 7% of the entire U.S. population. Once naturalized, citizens can vote in elections and enjoy the full rights of citizenship.

Other Demographic Details about Naturalization

Other USCIS data shows that:

• The median age for those naturalized is around 42. That means about half are younger and half are older.
• Women made up 55% of all naturalized citizens.
• The top states with naturalized citizens were California, New York, and Florida.

Citizens come from around the globe. But the most popular country of birth was Mexico, followed by India and the Philippines. Those three countries provided about 25% of all naturalized citizens.

To qualify to apply, a lawful permanent resident must have lived in the U.S. continuously for several years (usually five) and be at least 18 with good moral character. Congress estimates that about 9 million people currently qualify to seek naturalization. Some of those eligible have no desire to apply, while others are curious but unsure of where to start.

There is good news for those who ultimately submit an application. Over the past few years, the processing time has decreased, so the backlog at USCIS has lessened. Now is the time to realize your dream of U.S. citizenship.

Contact a Jacksonville Citizenship and Naturalization Attorney Today

At Empowerment Legal, PLLC, we are dedicated to helping men and women through the naturalization process. There are many pitfalls along the way, and common errors can derail a naturalization application. To improve your chances of success, please reach out to our office to schedule a free, private consultation. We can review the requirements and analyze any issues, such as criminal convictions or other problems which can weaken your claims. Call our office today to connect with an experienced Jacksonville citizenship and naturalization attorney today.

Sources:

uscis.gov/citizenship-resource-center/naturalization-statistics

congress.gov/crs-product/IF12322