Get the Assistance You Need for N-400 Application for Naturalization Case
If you were born in another country and wish to become a United States citizen, you file a form N-400 application. Also known as a naturalization application, it has specific criteria that must be met in order for citizenship to be granted.
The process of becoming a citizen of the U.S. can be complicated, which is why many people seek help from an immigration attorney. Francis Law Center only handles immigration law and specializes in handling such cases, and has offices in Chicago, Schaumburg, IL, and Madison, WI.
What is Citizenship by Naturalization?
In the U.S., people born in other countries obtain citizenship through the naturalization process. There are several pathways to citizenship, including marrying a U.S. citizen, serving in the U.S. military, or being a child of a U.S. citizen.
However, the most common way to obtain citizenship is through being a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) for at least five years. You can then check whether you meet the eligibility criteria and begin the process of becoming a citizen.
How to Qualify for Citizenship by Naturalization
If you’ve been a lawful permanent resident for at least five years, you can apply to be a U.S. citizen through naturalization. To qualify for naturalization through this process, you must also meet these other criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old;
- Show you’ve been a lawful permanent resident for at least five years (3 years if married to a U.S. citizen);
- Demonstrate continuous residence for the last five years (3 if married to a U.S. citizen);
- Show your physical presence in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of the last five years;
- Be a person of good moral character;
- Have knowledge of U.S. government (civics) and basic American history;
- Be able to speak, read, and write basic English; and
- Take an Oath of Allegiance.
The Naturalization Process
The process of obtaining citizenship by people who are borned outside the US is known as naturalization. If you meet the necessary requirements, you can apply for citizenship using the form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
The Application
To start the application process for citizenship, you will need to complete USCIS Form N-400. You can file it on paper (by mail) or online. You’re eligible to submit the N-400 within 90 days of your fifth year of permanent residency. Along with your application, you must also pay the required filing fee and provide all the required initial evidence.
Or, if you’re married to (and living with) a U.S. citizen, you may be able to apply for citizenship after the third year of legal residency. However, you must stay married and live with your spouse until after you are sworn in as a citizen.
There are other cases where you may not need to wait the full five years to apply. For example, if you are a battered spouse of a U.S. citizen, you may be granted protection under the Violence Against Women Act. In addition, refugees, those given asylum, or the spouse of a U.S. citizen working overseas may qualify for a reduced waiting period.
After submitting the application, you may need to appear for biometrics (fingerprinting, photo, and signature).
The Interview
The citizenship interview can be one of the most stressful parts of the naturalization process. Preparation is key for a smooth and successful interview, but there are plenty of resources (many of them are free) available to help you get ready.
During your interview, the USCIS officer will ask you questions about yourself, your background, and your application. It’s critical to become very familiar with the information on your application and your responses. The officer will ask questions from the application to check for any inconsistencies.
You’ll also take an English test (reading, writing, and speaking). Additionally, you will take a civics test covering U.S. history and government topics. You will find out the results of your tests at your interview appointment, so you will know right away how you did or if you need to submit additional information to USCIS.
Wait and Processing Times
Processing the N-400 has taken an average of 6 to 11 months over the last few years. Of course, your actual wait time may vary depending on the current backlog and workload at the USCIS office.
The complexity of your case and whether you completed everything correctly can also impact the wait time. That’s one of the reasons it’s so important to ensure everything is correct on your application and that you submit the required documentation timely. Any errors or omissions could delay your processing time or could even result in a denial.
Common Challenges in Applying for Citizenship
Becoming a U.S. citizen can be both lengthy and complicated, and applicants often face challenges throughout the naturalization process. Some of the most common challenges include:
Meeting eligibility requirements: The criteria for naturalization are specific and non-negotiable in many cases. Proving you meet the requirements can be challenging, depending on your situation.
Lengthy and complicated application: Completing the application and submitting all the required documents can be a complex process. Any errors or missing documents can result in a denial or delay of your naturalization. Getting help from an attorney specializing in immigration will ensure a smooth application process.
Communication barriers: If English isn’t your first language, it may be difficult to complete the application and pass the interview.
Providing documentation: Throughout the application process, you’ll be asked to provide many different documents. Some people have trouble locating and producing the required documentation. Or there could be irregularities or questions about the documents, especially if they are from another country.
Navigating the Citizenship Process with Francis Law Center
Having an experienced immigration attorney to guide you through the naturalization process can be the difference between an approval and a denial. Francis Law Center specializes in immigration law and can help improve your chances of success.
We’ve handled complex citizenship cases and know what to expect throughout all parts of the process. We can ensure your N-400 and all required documentation are submitted correctly, and we know what to expect from the interview.
Allow us to help you navigate the naturalization process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation so we can guide you along your path to citizenship.
