Question

Miguel is a hardworking boy around the age of seventeen. He is originally from Mexico and has been living in the United States for four years. He is able to understand English, however always writes in Spanish. He has seen an American flag, but couldn’t tell you much about it. He also can sing the national anthem, but doesn't understand the lyrics. Can Miguel become an American citizen if he applies for citizenship tomorrow? Devise a plan to help Miguel earn his citizenship in the United States.

Answer 1

Miguel can't become a citizen yet. There are a number of reasons for this:

1) he's not 18 yet; he has to wait until he is 18
2) he hasn't lived in the US for 5 years (but if he waits till he's 18, will will have, so both these conditions get fullfilled at the same time)

3) he must speak English: pass an English test.

I would recommend that Miguel spends the next year practicing his English speaking and writing, this is the most important!

4) he must understand US history and government structure: this is another thing that he must do. 

So he can become a citizen next year, if he practices English and learns history and about the government.