Citizenship
Citizenship Maryland Statewide Initiative
The call for applications for FY2026 has ended.
Citizenship Maryland is a statewide initiative established to reduce barriers to naturalization and strengthen access to citizenship services. The program provides grant funding to nonprofit organizations to collaborate with the State to:
- Conduct outreach
- Host informational sessions
- Offer pre-application screenings
- Provide referrals
More information
- Details on Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO)
- Citizenship Maryland NOFO Application Form
- NOFO Q&A 02/10/2026
- NOFO Q&A Update 02/26/2026
Becoming a U.S. Citizen
This is a huge milestone that gives immigrant Marylanders important rights and benefits:
- Protect yourself and your family from deportation
- Vote in elections in Maryland and the U.S.
- Access higher-paying jobs, including federal, state, and government contractor positions
- Sponsor family members for permanent residency
- Receive a U.S. passport for travel and legal protection
- Access scholarships, federal financial aid, and economic opportunities
Many Marylanders are eligible to naturalize and become U.S. citizens. Estimates - PDF show 150,000 lawful permanent residents qualify. Most of these eligible individuals live in Montgomery and Prince George’s County.
Naturalization
Successful naturalization requires several steps. These include:
- Filling out your application (Form N-400)
- Passing a test
- Passing your interview
- Taking the Oath of Allegiance
For more information, visit:
- USCIS Citizenship Information
- Form N-400 Instructions
- Form N-600 Instructions
- Find Your Local USCIS Office
Naturalization support
If you’re interested in becoming a U.S. citizen, we encourage you to:
- Reach out to any of the following local organizations for their support
- Attend community events
- Connect with trusted legal service providers
- Contact our office for more information
Statewide organizations providing legal support for naturalization cases and applications
- Ayuda
- Chesapeake Multicultural Resource Center
- Esperanza Center
- Global Refuge
- International Rescue Committee (IRC) of Baltimore
- Luminus
Organizations providing free or low-cost citizenship classes
These help you navigate the citizenship application process and learn the knowledge you need to pass the federal naturalization exam.
| Organization | Location (Relevant for In-Person Classes) |
|---|---|
| Center of Help | Annapolis |
| Baltimore City Community College | Baltimore City |
| Chesapeake Multicultural Resource Center | Easton (for in-person classes), online options |
| Centro Hispano de Frederick | Frederick |
| Gilchrist Immigrant Resource Center | Online (but you need to live in Montgomery County) |
| We Are CASA | Various locations in Maryland |