text: How long it takes? Years and years...just getting the application approved to start the process! There is a 5 year period, citizenship tests must be passed.\nThe swearing in process is a mass deal...thousands at once, recite the pledge, etc. Then, papers are mailed and you are a citizen...a long, long path that is very complicated, depending upon what nation you are coming in from. It is also an unfair system. Cubans are all but automatically granted citizenship, while others can't get it no matter what they do. We have serious limits which vary from country to country.