Growing Footprint: Indians 2nd Largest Group To Become US Citizens

India-West News Desk

WASHINGTON, DC – The allure of the United States continues to draw Indians in significant numbers, solidifying their place as one of the largest groups contributing to U.S. naturalizations.

In Fiscal Year 2024, over 50,000 Indians became U.S. citizens, making India the second-largest contributor to naturalizations after Mexico, which led with 13.1 percent. India accounted for 6.1 percent of all new U.S. citizens, followed by the Philippines (5.0 percent), the Dominican Republic (4.9 percent), and Vietnam (4.1 percent), according to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Employment Pathways

Many Indians secure permanent residency through employment-based preference categories, a key factor in their naturalization journey. The median time spent as a lawful permanent resident before naturalizing varies by nationality, and Indians, often pursuing advanced careers, exemplify this trend.

States

Several U.S. states and cities with significant Indian American populations emerged as key hubs for naturalizations in FY 2024. California, Texas, and New York led the states, while cities like Houston, Miami, and Los Angeles hosted large naturalization ceremonies.

Gender e

Women accounted for 55 percent of all naturalized citizens this year, with over 37 percent of new citizens aged between 30 and 44. The median age of naturalized citizens was 42, with 17 percent under the age of 30. Many Indian families, including seniors seeking family reunification, have benefited from these pathways, contributing to the community’s multigenerational presence.

Fee Waivers

Recognizing economic challenges, USCIS granted fee waivers to 14.3 percent of naturalized citizens in FY 2024. Older adults, including many Indian seniors, were among the key beneficiaries of this provision, ensuring broader accessibility to citizenship.