Citizenship & Naturalization
Becoming a U.S. citizen is a milestone. We help lawful permanent residents move through the naturalization process with confidence, from the application to the interview.
Are you eligible?
Naturalization has requirements around how long you have held a green card, physical presence, good moral character, and the English and civics tests. Some applicants qualify sooner than they expect, and some situations call for extra care — a review helps you know where you stand.
How we help
We confirm your eligibility, prepare the application, and get you ready for the test and interview. If there is anything in your history that needs attention, it is far better to address it before you file.
Frequently asked questions
When can I apply for U.S. citizenship?
Most lawful permanent residents can apply after holding a green card for a set number of years, and you can often file a few months before you reach that mark. Whether you qualify depends on your specific history, so a consultation can confirm your earliest filing date.
How long do I have to hold a green card before naturalizing?
There is a general waiting period, with a shorter one for people who obtained status through a U.S. citizen spouse. Because the exact count depends on your case, it may help to have an attorney review your timeline.
What is continuous residence and why does it matter?
Continuous residence means you have kept the United States as your home for the required period without long, unexplained absences. Extended trips abroad can interrupt it, which may affect eligibility depending on your situation. An attorney can review your travel history and tell you where you stand.
What is the physical presence requirement?
Separate from continuous residence, you generally must have been physically inside the U.S. for a certain portion of the qualifying period. Keeping records of your trips makes it easier to show you meet this requirement.
Can long trips outside the U.S. affect my citizenship application?
Yes. Absences beyond a certain length can raise questions about whether you maintained continuous residence, and very long trips may reset the clock. If you travel often, a consultation can help you plan around these rules.
What does “good moral character” mean for naturalization?
It is a standard the government uses to judge your conduct during the relevant period and, at times, before it. Things like certain crimes, dishonesty on applications, or failing to meet obligations can weigh against it, while a stable record helps. Every case is different, so it is worth reviewing your history with an attorney.
What can disqualify me from becoming a citizen?
Some issues, such as certain serious crimes, misrepresentation, or unresolved obligations, can bar or delay naturalization, though many problems can be addressed with the right preparation. Whether something is truly disqualifying depends on the details. Only a licensed attorney or accredited representative can advise you on this, not a notary or “notario.”
Do I have to take the citizenship test in English?
The naturalization test usually includes an English component and a civics component, but there are exemptions and accommodations for qualifying applicants based on age and years as a resident. A consultation can tell you whether an exemption may apply to you. Se habla espanol.
What is on the civics test?
The civics portion covers U.S. history and government, and officers typically ask a set of questions drawn from an official study list. Free study materials are available, and many applicants prepare successfully with practice.
What if I can’t learn English because of a disability or medical condition?
You may be able to request a medical exception using Form N-648, completed by a licensed medical professional, which can waive the English and civics requirements in qualifying cases. Whether you qualify depends on your documentation and diagnosis. An attorney can help you present this properly.
What happens at the naturalization interview?
An officer reviews your application, asks about your background and eligibility, and usually administers the English and civics tests the same day. Being prepared and consistent with what you filed makes the interview go more smoothly. You may bring an attorney, and preparation can ease a lot of the anxiety.
What is the oath of allegiance?
The oath is the final step, taken at a ceremony, where you formally pledge allegiance to the United States and officially become a citizen. Once you take it, you receive your Certificate of Naturalization. Some applicants may qualify for modifications to the oath depending on their circumstances.
Can I keep my citizenship from my home country?
The U.S. generally allows dual citizenship, but whether you can keep your other nationality depends on that country’s laws, not U.S. law. It is worth checking with your home country before you naturalize. A consultation can help you understand how the two systems interact.
Do I need a lawyer to apply for citizenship?
Many people file on their own, but a lawyer can be valuable if you have travel gaps, past legal issues, or questions about eligibility. Only a licensed attorney or accredited representative can give you legal advice, so be cautious with a notary or “notario” who cannot. A consultation can tell you whether your case is straightforward or needs closer review.
Will an old arrest or criminal record stop me from becoming a citizen?
Not necessarily, but any arrest, charge, or conviction should be reviewed carefully before you file, because it can affect good moral character and, in some cases, your status. Bring all records, even for matters you think were dismissed. An attorney can assess the impact before you submit anything.
Can I apply for citizenship sooner if I’m married to a U.S. citizen?
Often yes. People who gained status through a U.S. citizen spouse and remain married and living together may qualify under a shorter residence period. A consultation can confirm whether you meet these conditions.
Do my children become citizens when I naturalize?
In many cases, children who are permanent residents and under a certain age may automatically become citizens when a parent naturalizes, if other conditions are met. The rules can be technical, so it is worth confirming your children’s status with an attorney.
What documents do I need to file the N-400?
Commonly you will need your green card, travel records, tax and address history, and documents about marital status or any legal issues, though your exact list depends on your situation. Gathering these early makes the process smoother. An attorney can give you a checklist tailored to your case.
Can I apply for citizenship if I owe taxes or missed filing?
Tax problems do not automatically bar you, but unresolved obligations can affect good moral character, so it is best to address them or set up a payment arrangement before filing. Honesty about your tax history is important. A consultation can help you prepare so this does not derail your application.
How long does the naturalization process take?
Timelines vary by location and caseload, from filing through interview and oath. You can often check current estimates online, and an attorney can help you avoid delays caused by missing information or documents.
This is federal law — but where you are still matters
What is on this page applies the same way in every state. Which office and court handle your case, how detention works where you are, and how far local police cooperate with immigration enforcement are not the same across California, Arizona and New Mexico. Pick your state for that.