An optional end to the immigration process may be naturalization as a U.S. citizen. After five years of continuous permanent residency (shortened to three if married to and living with a U.S. citizen), a lawful permanent resident may become a U.S. citizen through the naturalization process. In order to naturalize, you must generally also:
- Have lived within the state, or USCIS district with jurisdiction over the applicant’s place of residence, for at least 3 months prior to the date of filing the application.
- In addition to the continuous residency, you must be physically present in the United States for at least half of the qualifying period for naturalization. Certain exceptions apply to the military and employees of U.S. firms stationed abroad.
- Be able to read, write, and speak English at a sufficient level and have sufficient knowledge of U.S. history and government, evidenced by passing in-person testing during a USCIS interview
- Be of good moral character
- Take an oath to the principles of the Constitution of the United States.
Certain exceptions and accommodations may apply. Our team of professionals have extensive experience in applying naturalization applications and accompanying applicants to interviews, especially in cases where qualifications are unclear. Contact us today to determine your eligibility.
