Zavala Law Group
NATURALIZATION · CITIZENSHIP

Naturalization: Become a U.S. citizen

If you are already a permanent resident, naturalization is the final step to get all the rights of a U.S. citizen: vote, U.S. passport, petition more relatives, and never worry about losing your status again. We guide you through the entire process and prepare you for the interview.

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What is naturalization?

Naturalization is the process by which a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) officially becomes a U.S. citizen. It is the final step of the immigration journey and grants you full rights.

What you gain by naturalizing

  • Right to vote in all elections (federal, state, local).
  • U.S. passport with free access to 180+ countries.
  • Ability to petition more relatives (including siblings and parents).
  • Protection against deportation in most circumstances.
  • Access to federal jobs reserved for citizens.
  • Travel without time limits, no risk of losing status.
  • Your children under 18 who are residents may automatically acquire citizenship when you naturalize.

Who can apply?

You qualify for naturalization if you meet these basic requirements:

You are 18 or older when filing.
You have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years (3 years if married to a U.S. citizen and still living together).
You have been physically present in the U.S. at least half of that time.
No prolonged absences that break continuous residence (more than 6 months abroad can be a problem).
Good moral character in the last 5 years (3 for marriage cases).
You can read, write, and speak basic English.
Basic knowledge of U.S. history and government.
Willing to take the oath of allegiance to the Constitution.

Exceptions: if you are 50+ with 20 years of residence, or 55+ with 15 years, you may take the interview in Spanish. 65+ with 20 years also gets a simplified civics test.

How the process works

01

Confirm eligibility

We review your residence date, absences, criminal record, tax filings, and other factors that affect your eligibility.

02

Gather documents

Green card, travel record, tax returns, marriage or divorce certificates if applicable, criminal record documents if any.

03

File Form N-400

We file your complete application with all supporting documentation.

04

Biometrics

Immigration calls you in for fingerprints and photo.

05

Interview and exams

You are tested in English (reading, writing, speaking) and civics (history and government). We prepare you personally with materials and mock interviews.

06

Decision

If approved, you are scheduled for the oath ceremony.

07

Oath ceremony

You take the oath of allegiance and receive your Certificate of Naturalization. From that moment you are officially a U.S. citizen.

How long does the process take?

Total time is 8 to 14 months on average:

  • Immigration receipt: 2 to 4 weeks.
  • Biometrics: 4 to 8 weeks later.
  • Interview: 4 to 10 months after filing.
  • Oath ceremony: 2 to 8 weeks after the approved interview.

How much does representation cost?

After evaluating your circumstances, we will explain the recommended legal strategy, total fees, and available payment-plan options. If your case has additional factors (long absences, criminal background to analyze, complex divorces), the cost is adjusted and clearly quoted in the consultation.

Frequently asked questions

The U.S. allows dual citizenship. However, your home country may have different rules: some countries automatically remove citizenship when you naturalize elsewhere. Check your country's rules before proceeding.
We represent clients in all 50 states through remote representation in immigration administrative proceedings. For cases requiring Immigration Court appearance, we evaluate admission on a case-by-case basis. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Each case is unique. Information on this page is general and does not constitute legal advice.

Ready to become a citizen?

Evaluate your case in a free, confidential consultation. We tell you if you qualify and how we prepare you for the interview.

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