Over 5.2 million immigrants have naturalized as U.S. citizens in the past five years, according to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) — a sign of both continued interest in citizenship and the challenges of meeting demand amid record application volumes.
Key Highlights:
- Naturalizations (Past 5 Years): 5.2 million
- 2023 Total: Over 878,000 new citizens
- Top Source Countries: Mexico, India, Philippines, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic
- California’s Share (2023): 21% of all naturalizations
- Los Angeles Region: Among the top naturalization metro areas in the U.S.
- USCIS Challenge: Processing record-high application volumes post-COVID
Naturalization Trends and Challenges
In 2023 alone, over 878,000 immigrants became naturalized U.S. citizens. This represents a continued recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic’s delays and an increasing push to streamline the citizenship process. The top five countries of origin for new citizens remain consistent, with Mexico still accounting for the largest group.
California, and particularly the Los Angeles area, continues to be a major hub for new Americans. One in five new citizens in 2023 resided in California, demonstrating the state’s vital role in the nation’s immigration landscape.
Ongoing Application Surge
USCIS is facing one of the highest volumes of naturalization applications in history, fueled by both pent-up demand and increased interest due to political and social factors. Despite the surge, the agency is working to maintain processing efficiency and minimize delays.
Summary
With more than 5.2 million naturalizations since 2019, the U.S. continues to welcome immigrants into full civic life. The data highlights not only the enduring appeal of American citizenship but also the logistical and administrative hurdles the system must manage to keep up with demand.
