Why is it important for naturalized citizens to go through the legal process?

Naturalization is the legal process through which a foreign citizen or national can become a U.S. citizen.  In order to be naturalized, an applicant must first be qualified to apply for citizenship.  Then, he or she must complete an application, attend an interview, and pass an English and a civics test. Upon successful completion of these steps, the applicant takes an oath of loyalty, and becomes a citizen.  These legal requirements help the immigration service ensure that only those people who are sincere in their desire to become Americans become naturalized.