Immigrants living in the United States as permanent residents for at least five years (and in some cases three years) may be eligible for citizenship. While an application for naturalization can be one of the most rewarding types of immigration applications, it can be a risky step for some people. Mr. Phipps recommends a consultation with an experienced immigration attorney to screen for common problems that would make a naturalization application unwise. For those who qualify, however, citizenship results in great personal satisfaction and a sense of belonging as a full participant in the society of the United States.