Citizenship & Naturalization
Guidance through the naturalization process, including Form N-400 preparation, interview representation, and advice on dual citizenship issues.
Most applicants qualify after 5 years as a permanent resident (the “5-year rule”), or after 3 years if married to and living with a U.S. citizen (the “3-year rule”). You must meet continuous residence, physical presence, good moral character, and English/civics testing requirements (with limited exceptions).
Core Eligibility
- Age 18+ and LPR status.
- Continuous residence for the statutory period (5 years, or 3 years for qualified spouses), including 3 months in the state/district before filing; certain prolonged trips can disrupt residence.
- Physical presence: at least 30 months out of 5 years, or 18 months out of 3 years for qualified spouses.
- Good Moral Character (GMC) during the statutory period (generally 5 or 3 years), assessed case-by-case under statute, regulations, and policy.
Testing & Exceptions
- English & Civics tests at interview (speaking, reading, writing; 10 civics questions).
- Age-based language exceptions:
- 50/20: Age 50+ with 20 years as LPR (English exempt; civics in native language).
- 55/15: Age 55+ with 15 years as LPR (English exempt; civics in native language).
- Medical waiver (N-648): For disabilities that prevent meeting English/civics requirements; must be certified by a licensed professional with specific explanations.
Process & Documents
- File N-400 (online or paper), biometrics if required, interview & tests, decision, and Oath of Allegiance. USCIS lists document examples for travel history and residence if long trips occurred.
FAQs
- Can I file 90 days early? Many applicants may file up to 90 days before meeting the full residence period (confirm against your dates).
- Will past issues affect GMC? USCIS evaluates all conduct during the statutory period (and sometimes beyond). Certain offenses create conditional bars.