For many of our clients, becoming a United States citizen through naturalization is the ultimate achievement of their American dream. But the process can be challenging, with numerous requirements and potential obstacles along the way.

At Gardner & Mendoza, P.C. Immigration Law, our citizenship and naturalization lawyers take the guesswork out of the process, providing clear guidance and personalized legal strategies to help you achieve your goal of U.S. citizenship smoothly and confidently.

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Naturalization Eligibility and Requirements

To be eligible for naturalization and become a U.S. citizen, you must generally meet the following requirements:

Be at least 18 years old
Be a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for a certain period of time (typically 5 years, or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen)
Have continuous residence in the U.S. as a permanent resident for a certain period of time
Be physically present in the U.S. for a certain period of time
Have good moral character and a clean criminal record
Demonstrate proficiency in English and knowledge of U.S. history and government
Take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States

Our citizenship and naturalization lawyers can help you assess your eligibility and identify any potential issues or challenges that may arise in your case.

The Naturalization Process

The naturalization process typically involves several key steps:

Eligibility Assessment: Our attorneys will review your case to determine your eligibility for naturalization and identify any potential challenges or red flags.
N-400 Application: We will complete and file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, along with supporting documents and evidence.
Biometrics: You’ll attend a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints, photos, and a signature for background checks.
Interview and Exam: You’ll attend an in-person interview with a USCIS officer, where you’ll demonstrate your proficiency in English and knowledge of U.S. history and government through a civics exam. As part of our service, we will accompany you to the interview and exam.
Oath of Allegiance: If your application is approved, you’ll take the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony, typically a couple of months after the interview, and officially become a U.S. citizen!

Throughout the process, our citizenship and naturalization lawyers will provide knowledgeable guidance, meticulous document preparation, and strong advocacy to help you achieve your goals.

Special Considerations in Naturalization Cases

While the naturalization process can be straightforward for some permanent residents, others may face special challenges or complications that require additional legal strategies and advocacy.

Some common issues that may arise in naturalization cases include:

Criminal History: If you have a criminal record, even for minor offenses, it could potentially impact your eligibility for naturalization or require additional documentation and evidence of good moral character.
Extensive Absences from the U.S.: If you’ve spent significant time outside of the U.S. as a permanent resident, it could impact your eligibility for naturalization or require additional evidence of continuous residence and physical presence.
Failure to Register for Selective Service: If you’re a male permanent resident who failed to register for Selective Service between the ages of 18 and 26, it could impact your eligibility for naturalization and require additional documentation and evidence.
Disability Waivers: If you have a physical or developmental disability or mental impairment that prevents you from fulfilling the English and civics requirements for naturalization, you may be eligible for a waiver or accommodation.

Our citizenship and naturalization lawyers have the knowledge and experience to help you navigate these and other challenges that may arise in your case, and develop effective strategies to overcome obstacles and achieve your goals.

Why Choose Gardner & Mendoza for Your Naturalization Case?

When you partner with Gardner & Mendoza for your citizenship and naturalization case, you benefit from:

Extensive Experience: Our attorneys have decades of combined experience handling a wide range of naturalization matters, from the most straightforward to the most complex.
Personalized Strategies: We take the time to understand your unique situation, goals, and challenges, and craft tailored strategies that fit your specific needs.
Proactive Guidance: We stay on top of the latest changes in immigration law and policy, and provide proactive advice to help you navigate the ever-shifting landscape of naturalization requirements and procedures.
Tireless Advocacy: We’re passionate about helping our clients achieve their dreams of becoming U.S. citizens, and we’ll work tirelessly to advocate for your interests every step of the way.
Multilingual Services: Our team can assist clients in English, Spanish, and Tagalog, and we welcome all language interpreters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements for citizenship through naturalization?

To be eligible for citizenship through naturalization, you must:

Be at least 18 years old
Be a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for a certain period of time (typically 5 years, or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen)
Have continuous residence in the U.S. and physical presence for a certain period of time
Be able to read, write, and speak basic English
Have knowledge of U.S. history and government
Be a person of good moral character
Take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States

How long does the naturalization process take?

The processing time for naturalization varies depending on the USCIS field office handling your case and their workload. On average, it takes about 6 to 15 months from the time you file your N-400 application to when you take the Oath of Allegiance and become a U.S. citizen. However, some cases may take longer if there are issues with your application or background.

What happens at the naturalization interview?

At the naturalization interview, a USCIS officer will review your N-400 application and ask you questions about your background, residence, and eligibility for citizenship. You’ll also take the English and civics tests unless you qualify for an exemption based on age or disability. The officer may ask for additional documents or information and will provide you with a decision on your case or inform you of the next steps.

What if I fail the English or civics test?

If you fail the English or civics test at your naturalization interview, you’ll be given one more opportunity to retake the test within 60 to 90 days. If you fail a second time, your N-400 will be denied, and you’ll have to reapply for naturalization and pay the fees again. However, some applicants may qualify for an exemption or waiver of the English or civics requirements based on age, disability, or long-term residence in the U.S.

How can a citizenship and naturalization lawyer help me?

A citizenship and naturalization lawyer can provide valuable assistance throughout the naturalization process, including:

Assessing your eligibility for naturalization and identifying any potential red flags
Preparing and filing your N-400 application and supporting documents
Helping you study for the English and civics tests
Representing you at the naturalization interview and advocating for your case
Appealing a denial or reapplying for naturalization if needed
Providing guidance on your rights and responsibilities as a U.S. citizen

Take the First Step Toward U.S. Citizenship with Confidence

If you’re ready to take the next step on your path to U.S. citizenship through naturalization, we invite you to contact our office to schedule a confidential consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.

During your consultation, we’ll take the time to listen to your story, answer your questions, and provide an honest assessment of your case. We’ll also discuss our fees and services in a transparent manner, so you can make an informed decision about how to proceed.

Don’t take on the naturalization process alone. Let the dedicated lawyers at Gardner & Mendoza be your guides and advocates on the path to achieving your American dream. Contact us today to get started.