What Is Naturalization?
Naturalization is the process by which lawful permanent residents (green card holders) become United States citizens. This process grants you all the rights and privileges of U.S. citizenship, including the right to vote, serve on juries, and obtain a U.S. passport.
As a naturalized citizen, you can also petition for family members to immigrate to the United States and are protected from deportation (except in very rare circumstances involving fraud in the naturalization process).
Benefits of U.S. Citizenship
- Right to vote in federal, state, and local elections
- Ability to run for elected office (except President/Vice President)
- Protection from deportation
- Priority in petitioning family members
- Eligibility for federal jobs requiring citizenship
- U.S. passport for international travel
Processing Time
Current naturalization processing times range from 12-18 months from application to oath ceremony, depending on your location and case complexity.
Naturalization Requirements
Basic Eligibility Requirements:
Must be at least 18 years old
Lawful permanent resident for at least 5 years (3 years if married to U.S. citizen)
Physical presence in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of 5 years (18 months out of 3 years)
Continuous residence in the U.S. (no trips outside U.S. longer than 6 months)
Residence in the state where applying for at least 3 months
Additional Requirements:
Good moral character
Basic knowledge of U.S. history and civics
Basic English language skills (speaking, reading, writing)
Attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution
Why Choose Us for Naturalization?
Comprehensive eligibility assessment
Complete Package Preparation
Document collection and organization
Civics and history test preparation
English test preparation and practice
Interview preparation and mock interviews
Case tracking from filing to oath ceremony
Support for complex cases (criminal history, tax issues)
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the naturalization test?
The test consists of English and civics components. The English test includes speaking (during your interview), reading, and writing. The civics test covers U.S. history and government. With proper preparation, most applicants pass. We provide comprehensive test preparation materials and practice sessions.
What if I have a criminal record?
Not all criminal records prevent naturalization, but they require careful analysis. Factors include the type of offense, when it occurred, and rehabilitation efforts. We evaluate each case individually and can advise on the best approach.
Can I keep my original citizenship?
The U.S. requires you to renounce other citizenships during naturalization, but some countries allow dual citizenship. Check with your home country's embassy about their policies on dual citizenship.
What if I fail the naturalization test?
If you fail, you get a second chance to take the portion you failed. We provide additional preparation and support for the retake. Most applicants pass on their second attempt with proper preparation.
How soon can I apply for naturalization?
You can apply 90 days before meeting the residency requirement (5 years as LPR, or 3 years if married to U.S. citizen). This allows for processing time so you can naturalize as soon as eligible.
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Our Naturalization Package
Complete eligibility review and timeline analysis
Package preparation and filing
Document collection and organization
Civics test preparation materials and practice
English test preparation and tutoring
Mock interviews and preparation sessions
- Eligibility Assessment
- Package Preparation
- Document Package Assembly
- Civics Test Prep Materials
- English Test Preparation
- Interview Preparation