Naturalization & Citizenship
We have helped countless immigrants naturalize and become U.S. citizens. Our attorneys can walk you through the naturalization process and eligibility requirements.
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What is Naturalization?
Naturalization is the process of getting U.S. citizenship. When you’re a naturalized citizen, you can get a U.S. passport, live and work anywhere you’d like in the United States, and gain the same rights and responsibilities as any natural-born citizen has.
There are several ways to obtain citizenship. The four most important are:
- You are a Legal Permanent Resident for 5 years
- You are married to a U.S. Citizen and are a Legal Permanent Resident for 3 years
- You are serving in the Military
- You are the child of a U.S. citizen
What are the requisites to file for Naturalization?
Be at least 18 years old
To apply for Naturalization, you must be at least 18 years old. If you are less than 18 years old and one of your parents has Naturalized you can apply for Citizenship through acquired or derivative Naturalization. In the last case you should apply for a Certificate for Citizenship, which is a different process than the one to obtain a Certificate of Naturalization. We can help you decide what is the best process for you!
Physical presence in the United States
Applicants for naturalization are required to demonstrate continuous residence of at least 5 years in the United States (3 years if married to a U.S. citizen). “Continuous residence” means that the applicant has maintained residence within the United States for the required period of time shown above. Extended absences outside of the U.S. may disrupt an applicant’s continuous residence.
Knowledge of U.S. Civics and basic English
During your interview, you should demonstrate at least basic knowledge of the English language. This requisite can be waived if you are:
Age 50 or older at the time of filing for naturalization and have lived as a Green Card holder in the United States for 20 years
OR
Age 55 or older at the time of filing for naturalization and have lived as a permanent resident in the United States for 15 years.
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Good moral character
Good Moral Character (GMC) is defined as “character which measures up to the standards of average citizens of the community where the applicant resides.” Simply put, it means proving that you are an upstanding member of society.
In general, the applicant must show GMC during the five-year period immediately preceding his or her application for naturalization and up to the time of the Oath of Allegiance. Conduct prior to the five-year period may also impact whether the applicant meets the requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Citizenship refers to being recognized as a U.S. citizen, either by birth or through naturalization. Naturalization is the process by which a foreign national becomes a U.S. citizen after meeting specific legal requirements.
To apply, you generally need to:
– Be at least 18 years old
– Have lawful permanent resident (green card) status for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen)
– Demonstrate continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S.
– Show good moral character
– Pass English language and U.S. civics tests
The process typically takes 8-12 months from the time you submit your application to the citizenship oath ceremony. However, timelines may vary depending on the processing center and other factors.
It depends on the nature of the offense. Certain crimes may affect your ability to demonstrate good moral character, which is required for citizenship. Consulting with an immigration lawyer can help you determine your eligibility.
The U.S. allows dual citizenship, but some countries do not. You should check with your country of origin to understand how naturalization in the U.S. might impact your citizenship status there.
Yes, exceptions are available for individuals with certain disabilities or those who meet specific age and residency requirements (e.g., age 50+ with 20 years as a lawful permanent resident).
If denied, you may be able to file an appeal or request a hearing with an immigration officer. Our attorneys can help you understand your options and strengthen your case.
Yes, in some cases. If at least one parent is a U.S. citizen and certain residency requirements are met, children under 18 may automatically acquire citizenship through a process known as “derivative citizenship.”
Commonly required documents include your green card, passport, tax returns, and any records related to marriage, divorce, or criminal history. our attorneys can help you compile the right documents to avoid delays.
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