Citizenship and naturalization
Form N-400 naturalization, civics and English tests, and citizenship acquisition
Naturalization is the process by which a lawful permanent resident becomes a U.S. citizen. Eligibility generally turns on how long you have held your green card, your continuous residence and physical presence, good moral character, and knowledge of English and civics. Our attorneys confirm your eligibility, prepare your N-400, and coach you for a confident interview.
Key areas of citizenship & naturalization
Essential classifications, statutory standards, and relief avenues covered in this guide.
N-400 Naturalization
Complete eligibility evaluation and filing of Form N-400.
English & Civics Prep
Test coaching, question reviews, and disability exemption waivers (N-648).
Continuous Residence Review
Auditing travel logs and extended absences abroad.
Certificate of Citizenship
Derivation and acquisition of citizenship for foreign-born children (Form N-600).
Detailed Legal Guide & Practice Rules
Comprehensive breakdown of processes, requirements, and legal standards.
1. Naturalization Eligibility Requirements
The 5-year and 3-year rules, continuous residence, and physical presence
Most lawful permanent residents are eligible to apply for naturalization after maintaining continuous permanent resident status for at least 5 years. Spouses of U.S. citizens who have been married and living together in a bona fide union for at least 3 years can apply under an expedited 3-year timeline.
Applicants must also demonstrate physical presence in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of the 5-year period (or 18 months out of 3 years), maintain residence in the state or district of filing for at least 3 months, and establish continuous residence without trips abroad exceeding 6 months.
2. The Naturalization Test and Good Moral Character
The English language exam, 100-question civics test, and statutory character evaluations
During the naturalization interview, applicants must demonstrate basic English reading, writing, and speaking ability, and correctly answer up to 6 of 10 selected questions from the 100-question civics exam. Age and residency exemptions (50/20, 55/15, and 65/20 rules) or medical disability waivers (Form N-648) are available for qualifying applicants.
USCIS strictly evaluates good moral character during the statutory period. Past tax non-filing, failure to pay child support, selective service non-registration, or criminal offenses can jeopardize citizenship eligibility.
How the process works
Typical chronological progression from initial filing to final resolution.
- 1Phase 1
Eligibility & Background Audit
Verify residency timelines, physical presence days, and criminal/tax history.
- 2Phase 2
Form N-400 Preparation
Submit Form N-400 with tax transcripts, travel logs, and civil records.
- 3Phase 3
Biometrics & Interview Coaching
Prepare for the in-person interview, English reading/writing, and civics test.
- 4Phase 4
Oath Ceremony & Naturalization
Take the Oath of Allegiance and receive your Certificate of Naturalization.
What a lawyer actually does on a citizenship & naturalization case
How experienced counsel prevents delays, navigates scrutiny, and builds your legal record.
- ✓Calculates exact physical presence and continuous residence days to prevent premature filings.
- ✓Addresses past criminal citations, arrests, or tax liabilities to establish good moral character.
- ✓Prepares medical disability waivers (Form N-648) for qualifying medical exemptions to the tests.
- ✓Accompanies applicants to the naturalization interview before USCIS adjudicators.
- ✓Files Form N-600 applications for children deriving automatic citizenship from naturalized parents.
Bring these to a first consultation
Gathering these records in advance allows an attorney to evaluate your options immediately.
Citizenship and naturalization lawyers in the United States
Licensed immigration attorneys across the United States
No attorneys listed for citizenship & naturalization yet.
Two things you can do. Search citizenship & naturalization in nearby states, since many immigration matters are federal and can be handled remotely. Or read the citizenship & naturalization guide above, which explains what the process involves and what to ask when you do find someone.
Common questions about citizenship & naturalization
Straightforward answers to the most frequent inquiries.
When can I apply for U.S. citizenship?
Most permanent residents can apply 90 days before completing 5 continuous years as a green card holder. If married to and living with a U.S. citizen spouse, you may apply 90 days before completing 3 continuous years.
What happens if I failed to file taxes or owe back taxes?
Owing back taxes does not automatically disqualify you from naturalization, provided you have established an approved IRS payment plan and made timely payments. An attorney can help present proof of good moral character.
Official Government & Primary Legal Sources
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