Is Elon Musk a U.S. Citizen? What You Need to Know

(SOUTH AFRICA) If you’re curious about how someone like Elon Musk became a U.S. citizen, or you’re thinking about becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen yourself, this guide will walk you through the process. By the end, you’ll understand who can apply, what steps are involved, what documents you’ll need, how long it takes, what it costs, and what to watch out for. We’ll also clear up common worries, like whether a naturalized citizen can lose their citizenship or be deported, using Elon Musk’s story as a real-life example.

What You’ll Accomplish with This Guide

• Learn who is eligible to become a naturalized U.S. citizen
• Understand the step-by-step process, from start to finish
• Know what documents and forms you’ll need, with links to official sources
• Get a sense of timelines and costs
• Avoid common mistakes that can slow down or harm your application
• Find out what happens after you become a U.S. citizen

Eligibility Requirements for Naturalization

Before you start, make sure you meet the basic requirements to apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization. Here’s what you need:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a green card (permanent resident status) for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen)
• Live in the United States for most of those years (at least 30 months out of the last 5 years)
• Be able to read, write, and speak basic English
• Have knowledge of U.S. history and government
• Be a person of good moral character
• Be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States

Elon Musk’s journey followed these steps. He first came to the United States 🇺🇸 as a student, then became a permanent resident, and finally a naturalized U.S. citizen in 2002.

Step-by-Step Process to Become a Naturalized U.S. Citizen

1. ✅ Check Your Eligibility
   • Review the requirements above. If you’re not sure, you can use the USCIS eligibility tool to double-check.
2. ✅ Prepare Form N-400, Application for Naturalization
   • This is the main form you need to apply. You can find the official form and instructions on the USCIS website.
   • Gather your documents, such as your green card, travel records, and any supporting evidence.
3. ✅ Submit Your Application and Pay the Fee
   • As of 2025, the filing fee for Form N-400 is $640, plus an $85 biometric services fee, for a total of $725. Some people may qualify for a fee waiver or reduction.
   • You can file online or by mail. Keep copies of everything you send.
4. ✅ Attend a Biometrics Appointment
   • USCIS will schedule you for fingerprinting and a background check. Bring your appointment notice and identification.
5. ✅ Complete the Interview
   • You’ll be called for an interview with a USCIS officer. They’ll ask about your application and test your English and knowledge of U.S. civics.
   • Study materials are available on the USCIS citizenship resource page.
6. ✅ Receive a Decision
   • USCIS will approve, continue, or deny your application. If continued, you may need to provide more information or retake a test.
7. ✅ Take the Oath of Allegiance
   • If approved, you’ll be invited to a ceremony. Once you take the Oath, you become a U.S. citizen.

Required Documents and Where to Find Them

• Form N-400, Application for Naturalization: Official form and instructions
• Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
• Travel records (if you left the U.S. for long periods)
• Marriage certificate (if applying based on marriage to a U.S. citizen)
• Court documents (if you’ve had any legal issues)
• Fee payment (check or credit card)

Make sure all documents are current and match your application details.

Timelines and Costs

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

• ⚠️ Incomplete Applications: Missing information or documents can delay your case. Double-check everything before submitting.
• ⚠️ Long Trips Outside the U.S.: Spending too much time abroad can break your “continuous residence” requirement.
• ⚠️ Legal Issues: Even minor legal problems can affect your application. Be honest and provide all required court documents.
• ⚠️ Missing Appointments: If you miss your biometrics or interview, your application may be denied.
• ⚠️ Not Studying for the Test: Failing the English or civics test can delay your citizenship. Use official study guides to prepare.

Can a Naturalized U.S. Citizen Be Deported?

This is a common fear, especially with high-profile cases like Elon Musk. As reported by VisaVerge.com, legal experts agree that a naturalized U.S. citizen cannot be deported unless their citizenship is first revoked. Revocation is extremely rare and only happens if the government proves you lied or hid important facts during your application.

For example, in 2024, some news stories questioned whether Elon Musk could be deported after political disagreements. However, constitutional law protects naturalized citizens just like those born in the United States 🇺🇸. No credible evidence has ever shown that Musk’s citizenship was obtained fraudulently, and no legal action has been taken against him.

What Happens After You Become a U.S. Citizen?

Once you take the Oath of Allegiance, you have the same rights and responsibilities as any other U.S. citizen. This includes:

• The right to vote
• The right to work in any job, including government positions
• The ability to apply for a U.S. passport
• Protection from deportation

Elon Musk, for example, has served in government advisory roles and continues to live and work in the United States 🇺🇸 with full rights.

Next Steps and Where to Get Help

• 📋 Visit the USCIS Citizenship Resource Center for official guides, forms, and study materials.
• 📋 Talk to an immigration lawyer if you have complicated issues, such as past legal problems or long absences from the U.S.
• 📋 Prepare early and keep records of all your documents and application steps.

Key Takeaways

• Becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen is a clear, step-by-step process, just like the one Elon Musk followed.
• As a U.S. citizen, you have strong legal protections and full rights.
• Political debates or rumors do not affect your legal status if you followed the rules.
• Always use official sources and keep your information up to date.

By following these steps and staying informed, you can move forward with confidence on your path to U.S. citizenship.