Not sure if you qualify for U.S. citizenship? Complete our US Citizenship Qualifications Form and Schedule a Free Consultation. When you’re ready to apply, we will guide you throughout the process, starting with your citizenship application all the way to the finish line.
Naturalization is the process by which U.S. citizenship is granted to a lawful permanent resident after meeting the requirements established by Congress in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). Choosing to become a U.S. citizen is a very important decision.
However, keep in mind that becoming a US Citizen carries benefits and also responsibilities. To become a citizen, applicants are required to complete and submit Form N-400, Application for U.S. Citizenship, and must meet the eligibility requirements set by the law.
The general eligibility requirements to become a U.S. citizen are:
Be at least 18 years old.
Be a permanent resident (have a Green Card) for at least 5 years.
Demonstrate continuous residence in the United States for at least 5 years immediately before the date you file Form N-400. If applicant does not comply with this, the topic can be discussed with the attorney.
Show that you have been physically present in the United States for at least 30 months out of the 5 years immediately before the date you file Form N-400.
Show that you have lived for at least 3 months in the state or USCIS district where you apply. Students may apply for naturalization either where they go to school or where their family lives.
Be a person of good moral character.
Demonstrate an attachment to the principles and ideals of the U.S. Constitution.
Be able to read, write, and speak basic English.
Have a basic understanding of U.S. history and government (civics).
Take an oath of allegiance to the United States.
What Document Do I Need to Apply for Citizenship?
All U.S. citizenship applicants are required to provide supporting documents. The documents that are necessary depend on each applicant’s situation. Applicants submit the supporting documents at different stages of the naturalization process. Let’s see.
- Proof of green card holder (permanent resident) status
- Application fee payment
- Proof of current marital status
- Proof of identity
- Proof of military service, if applicable.
- Proof of medical disability
- Fee reduction application
- Fee waiver application
- Request for representation at the naturalization interview
- Travel records
- Proof of current marital status and termination of your prior marriages, if any
- Proof of termination of your spouse’s previous marriages, if any
- Proof of Internal Revenue Service (IRS) tax payments
- Proof that you have maintained permanent residence in the United States
- Records of previous encounters with law enforcement
What is the current naturalization wait time?
The naturalization processing time, from the time you file your citizenship application to when you attend the Oath of Allegiance ceremony, is currently between 18.5 and 24 months. Unless you have a complex case, we file your case online, which helps to expedite the process.
How much does it cost to apply for naturalization?
Together with our minimum fee of $500 (the fee may change if your case is complex) with the current government filing fee is $1225, including $640 for processing and $85 for biometrics services. Military applicants are exempt from both the application filing fee and the biometrics fee. Applicants aged 75 and older are exempt from the biometrics fee (see our detailed guide to naturalization costs).
