“Special naturalization provisions”

These provisions cover special classes of persons who may naturalize even though they do not meet all the general requirements for naturalization. Such special provisions allow:

• Spouses of U.S. citizens to file for naturalization after 3 years of lawful permanent residence instead of the prescribed 5 years;
• A surviving spouse of a U.S. citizen who served in the armed forces to file their naturalization application in any district instead of where they reside; and
• Children of U.S. citizen parents to naturalize without meeting certain requirements or taking the Oath of Allegiance if they are too young to understand the meaning.

Other classes of persons who may qualify for special consideration are former U.S. citizens, servicemen, seamen, and employees of organizations promoting U.S. interests abroad.