Naturalization
A lawful permanent resident 18 years of age or older who meets the following criteria is eligible to apply for naturalization:
Continuous residence in the U.S. for five years immediately preceding the filing of the application (or three years for a spouse of a U.S. citizen);
Actual physical presence in the U.S. for two and a half years (or one and a half for spouses of U.S. citizens);
Ability to read, write and speak English;
Knowledge and understanding of the fundamentals of U.S. history and government;
Good moral character and attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution.
The Application Process
The naturalization application consists of Form N-400 and the required supporting documentation. The processing time for the naturalization applications depends in part on the workload of the local office where the naturalization interview occurs.
After the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services receives and reviews your naturalization application, you will be scheduled for an interview. At the interview, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services officer confirms that you meet all of the requirements for naturalization and administers a test of civics knowledge and English language. If the officer approves your naturalization application, you will be scheduled for an oath ceremony to be sworn in as a U.S. Citizen.
Our attorneys have helped many permanent residents obtain U.S. Citizenship through the naturalization process. Please call our offices to speak with an attorney for more information about becoming a U.S. citizen.
