The Naturalization Act of 1790, 1795 and 1802

The Naturalization Act of 1790 provides the first rules to be followed by the United States granting citizenship other than by birth. The law limits naturalization to aliens who are “free white citizens,” leaving out large groups like slaves and Asian immigrants.

The Naturalization Act of 1795 increases the residency requirements to five years and requires renunciation of “allegiance and fidelity” to any other country in order for citizenship.

The Naturalization Act of 1802 establishes additional requirements for naturalization such as good character, allegiance to the Constitution, and a formal declaration of intention. This statute also requires immigrants to complete an application form with their name, birthplace, age, nation of allegiance, country of emigration, and place of intended settlement.