Full assistance with your Citizenship Certificate (N-400)
Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, is the form used by permanent residents (Green Card holders) to become citizens of the United States. There are a number of requirements that need to be met before an immigrant can apply for U.S. citizenship, but the benefits are plentiful.
Some benefits of citizenship include the ability to help your relatives immigrate more easily, the right to vote, the right to hold a U.S. passport, and the fact that you will no longer need to apply for Green Card renewal.
Start your application
Start the Application ProcessForm N-400 package- Application assistance fee
- $145
- Application Fee (incl. Biometrics)
- $725
- Processing fee
- $145
- Photo service at location
- $10
What are the requirements for citizenship?
The following are the essential requirements for applying for citizenship, a process called naturalization:
- You must hold a Green Card for five years and continuously reside in the U.S. (meaning you live there without leaving for trips of six months or longer).
- You must be physically present inside the U.S. for at least 30 months before applying.
- You must have lived in the state where you will submit the application for at least three months.
- You need to be reasonably proficient in the English language.
- You need to be familiar with American history, government, and society.
- You need to be able to make an Oath of Allegiance (there are some exceptions for those whose religion does not allow oaths).
How long does it take to become a citizen?
After you file Form N-400, USCIS will try to get you through the process in six months, but there is always the possibility of a backlog of applications or other delays.
How do I file for citizenship using Form N-400?
You must correctly complete Form N-400 and attach all required documents. This includes documents that help USCIS decide whether you have good moral character, such as criminal records and tax records.
After you file, USCIS will send you a letter telling you when and where to have your biometrics taken. You will need to bring your notice letter, Green Card, and a second form of identification. USCIS will also notify you of a time and place to be interviewed. The interview includes a test of your ability to read, write, and speak English, and up to 10 questions about U.S. civics. A person who fails either part of the test will be retested on that part 60 to 90 days later.
People who cannot take the English or civics test because of physical or mental disabilities can request an exemption by filing Form N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions (a doctor must complete and sign it).
Are there special circumstances for getting citizenship?
Less than 10 percent of the time, special circumstances such as marriage to a U.S. citizen or active service in the U.S. military may make you eligible for naturalization without having held a Green Card, holding one for less than five years, or having less than five years of continuous presence.
Individuals who have been removed from the U.S. or who are in a removal proceeding cannot apply for naturalization, unless they are serving in the U.S. military.
When do I actually become a U.S. citizen?
Once USCIS approves your application, you will attend a ceremony to take the Oath of Allegiance to the U.S. By taking the oath, you promise to be loyal to the U.S. and its laws. Once you have completed the oath, you will be a U.S. citizen, and you will exchange your Green Card for a Certificate of Naturalization at the ceremony.
Ready to apply for citizenship?
We will complete Form N-400 with you, take your photos, and prepare your full package.