Why Does Citizenship Take So Long?
Plain English explanations with official sources
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Understanding the Delays
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Summary: Why Citizenship Takes So Long
The citizenship process is slow because of too many applications, not enough workers, old computer systems, required background checks, and limited interview appointments. USCIS is working to improve, but progress is slow. You can help your own case by filing a complete application online and responding quickly to any requests.
Sources: Information on this page comes from official U.S. government reports including GAO (Government Accountability Office), DHS Office of Inspector General, USCIS Ombudsman Annual Reports, and USCIS official publications. Links to sources are provided throughout this page.