Naturalization & U.S. Citizenship Services

Becoming a United States citizen is one of the most significant decisions an immigrant can make. It represents the culmination of a journey—often a long and challenging one—that began with the dream of building a better life in America. At the Law Office of Miguel Palmeiro, LLC in Arlington, Virginia, we understand the profound importance of this milestone. Our team has guided hundreds of individuals through the naturalization process, helping them achieve citizenship while navigating the complex bureaucratic requirements of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Understanding Your Path to U.S. Citizenship

The path to U.S. citizenship typically begins with obtaining a green card (permanent resident status), though in rare cases, certain individuals may be eligible for citizenship through special circumstances such as military service. Once you hold a green card, you become eligible to apply for naturalization after meeting specific residency and physical presence requirements. The naturalization process is the legal mechanism through which permanent residents voluntarily choose to become U.S. citizens, pledging allegiance to the country and agreeing to fulfill the duties and responsibilities that come with citizenship.

Why pursue naturalization? The benefits are substantial and far-reaching. As a U.S. citizen, you gain the fundamental right to vote in federal, state, and local elections. You become eligible for federal employment, access to certain government benefits, and the ability to sponsor family members for immigration. You receive a U.S. passport, which provides protection while traveling abroad. Perhaps most importantly, you gain security—as a citizen, you cannot be deported, providing peace of mind and stability for you and your family. Additionally, citizenship opens doors to educational opportunities, professional licenses, and business ownership in fields previously restricted to citizens.

At the Law Office of Miguel Palmeiro, LLC, we help make the naturalization process manageable and successful. We guide you through each step, ensure all required documents are properly prepared and submitted, and represent your interests before USCIS. Our goal is to help you confidently achieve the citizenship you deserve.

Eligibility Requirements for Naturalization

Before you can apply for naturalization, you must meet several eligibility requirements established by USCIS. Understanding these requirements is essential to determine whether you're ready to move forward with your application.

Permanent Resident Status

First and foremost, you must be a lawful permanent resident of the United States. This means you must hold a valid green card. Your permanent resident status should be in good standing, with no violations of the conditions of your residence.

Physical Presence and Continuous Residence

USCIS requires that you have maintained continuous residence as a permanent resident for a specified period. For most applicants, this period is five years. However, if you are married to and living with a U.S. citizen, this period is reduced to three years. Your continuous residence means you cannot have been absent from the U.S. for more than 30 months during the required period, or more than 6 consecutive months without breaking your continuity of residence.

Additionally, you must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least half of the required residence period. For the standard five-year requirement, this means at least 30 months of physical presence. For the three-year requirement (if married to a U.S. citizen), you need at least 18 months of physical presence.

Good Moral Character

USCIS will assess whether you possess "good moral character" during the required residence period. This is a broad standard that considers various factors, including your criminal history, history of violations of immigration or traffic laws, honesty, and compliance with tax obligations. Certain criminal convictions may make you ineligible for naturalization. If you have a criminal record, it's essential to discuss this with an experienced immigration attorney before applying.

English Language Proficiency

You must demonstrate an ability to read, write, and speak English. During your naturalization interview, a USCIS officer will test your English skills through conversation and by asking you to read and write a simple sentence. The test is designed to be achievable for someone with basic English proficiency. Exceptions to the English requirement may apply if you are 65 years old or older and have been a permanent resident for at least 20 years, or if you are 55 years old or older and have been a permanent resident for at least 15 years, in which case you may take the civics test in your native language.

U.S. Civics Knowledge

You must pass a civics test covering the rights, responsibilities, and history of the United States. The test consists of 100 possible questions, and you will be asked up to 10 questions during your interview. You need to answer at least 6 of the 10 questions correctly to pass. The civics test evaluates your understanding of the U.S. Constitution, the branches of government, the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and key historical events.

Age Requirement

You must be at least 18 years old to apply for naturalization. Children may derive or acquire citizenship through their parents' naturalization under certain circumstances.

The N-400 Application Process: Step by Step

The naturalization application process can be complex, but understanding each step will help you prepare effectively. Here's what to expect:

Step 1: Preparation and Document Gathering

Before submitting your N-400 Application for Naturalization, you must gather numerous documents and carefully review your application for accuracy. Required documents typically include your green card, state identification or passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), divorce decrees (if applicable), tax returns for the past five years, proof of residence, and any documents related to travel outside the United States. We help you organize and prepare all required documentation, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

Step 2: Completing the N-400 Application

The N-400 form is detailed and requires accurate information about your background, residence history, work history, and moral character. Even minor errors or omissions can delay your application or lead to a Request for Evidence (RFE). Our attorneys review your application thoroughly before submission to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Step 3: Filing Your Application

The completed N-400 application, along with supporting documents and fees, is submitted to the appropriate USCIS office. You can file by mail or, in some cases, through online filing. We handle the submission process and retain copies of everything filed for our records and yours.

Step 4: Biometrics Appointment

After USCIS receives your application, you'll receive a notice scheduling you for a biometrics appointment. At this appointment, your fingerprints and photographs are taken for background checks. It's crucial to attend this appointment on the scheduled date.

Step 5: The Naturalization Interview

You'll be scheduled for an interview with a USCIS officer. At this interview, you'll be tested on your English proficiency and civics knowledge, and you'll be asked detailed questions about your application and background. This is a critical moment in your naturalization process, and thorough preparation is essential.