Citizenship
Pathway to U.S. Citizenship
There are two main paths to citizenship—Naturalization and the Certificate of Citizenship. Our office helps immigrants understand their options, and take the next steps towards becoming a citizen.
How to become a US Citizen
For those not born in the United States, there are two primary paths to citizenship: naturalization or obtaining a Certificate of Citizenship. To begin the process, individuals must typically first become legal permanent residents (LPRs). Once LPR status is achieved, applicants can pursue naturalization after meeting specific criteria, including residency duration, passing a civics test, and demonstrating good moral character.
Additionally, individuals who were minors when their parent(s) became U.S. citizens may qualify for a Certificate of Citizenship without undergoing the naturalization process.
Both naturalization and certificates of citizenship require meeting specific legal requirements and submitting the necessary documents. It's also critical for applicants to maintain good moral character during the entire application period, as a criminal record can negatively impact their eligibility. With proper legal support, these paths can lead to a secure and permanent future in the United States, giving individuals the same rights as any native-born citizen.
Steps to U.S. Citizenship
Determine Eligibility:
Confirm that you meet all requirements for naturalization, including age, residency, and good moral character.
Complete Form N-400:
Fill out the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Form N-400 accurately and completely.
Submit Your Application:
File your completed Form N-400 with the appropriate filing fee and any supporting documents required by USCIS.
Attend a Biometrics Appointment:
Get your fingerprints taken and submit a photo at your scheduled biometrics appointment.
Complete the Citizenship Interview:
Attend an interview with a USCIS officer to review your application and answer questions about your background and eligibility.
Pass the English and Civics Tests:
Demonstrate your knowledge of the English language and U.S. history/government by passing these mandatory tests.
Receive a Decision from USCIS:
USCIS will notify you of their decision to approve, continue, or deny your application.
Attend the Oath of Allegiance Ceremony:
If your application is approved, take the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony, officially becoming a U.S. citizen.
Receive Your Certificate of Naturalization:
After taking the Oath of Allegiance, you'll receive your Certificate of Naturalization, the final step in becoming a U.S. citizen.
Naturalization Citizenship
Naturalization is the primary way for immigrants to become U.S. citizens. It requires passing an English test, a U.S. History/Civics exam, and demonstrating good moral character. The process also includes maintaining continuous residence and taking an Oath of Allegiance, ultimately granting the full rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizenship.
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be a Legal Permanent Resident (LPR) for at least 5 years, or 3 years if currently married to the U.S. citizen through whom they earned residency.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Demonstrate 5 years of Good Moral Character.
- Pass the English language test (reading, writing, and speaking).
- Pass the U.S. History/Civics examination, which has recently become more challenging. Applicants must correctly answer 12 out of 20 questions to pass.
- Maintain continuous residence in the U.S. during the required period.
- Show physical presence in the U.S. for at least half of the required residency period.
- Take an Oath of Allegiance to the United States.
Good Moral Character:
- Having no significant criminal offenses on record.
- Being evaluated over a five-year period (or three years, if applicable).
- Past crimes outside this window could still present challenges.
- Positive contributions to the community, such as involvement in charitable or civic organizations, can strengthen a candidate's case.
Services Included in our Naturalization Consultancy:
- Counseling on your record of Good Moral Character.
- Preparation for the new, more challenging U.S. History/Civics examination.
- Coaching for the citizenship interview, including mock interview sessions.
- Guidance on gathering and submitting the required documentation.
- Assistance with the Naturalization application (Form N-400).
- Support throughout the entire Naturalization process, addressing any concerns or issues.
- Expert help to navigate the naturalization process, ensuring clients meet all requirements.
Ready to take the next step toward U.S. citizenship? Let our expert team guide you through the naturalization process with personalized support every step of the way. Contact us today to get started!
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