The Naturalization Process for Lawful Permanent Residents
As a lawful permanent resident, you are typically eligible to become a United States citizen after five years of living in the U.S. In fact, this is the most common path to becoming a U.S. citizen.
Here, an experienced immigration attorney walks you through the process of becoming a U.S. citizen.
What are the eligibility requirements?
To be eligible to become a U.S. citizen based on being a lawful permanent resident, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must be at least 18 years old when you apply for naturalization by filing Form N-400
- You have to be a United States lawful permanent resident for at least five years
- You must show continuous residence for at least five years
- You have to be physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months of the five years before the day you apply for naturalization
- You must prove that you’ve lived in the same state (or USCIS district with jurisdiction over your home) for at least three months. If you’re a student and are financially dependent on your parents, you can apply for citizenship either where you go to school or where your family resides.
- You must prove that you are a person of good moral character during your five years
- You must be able to pass an English test and a U.S. history and government test
Exceptions to the Five-Year Eligibility Requirement
While most lawful permanent residents have to live in the United States for five years before they can apply for citizenship, a few exceptions make you eligible sooner.
If you are a permanent resident married to a U.S. citizen, you may be eligible after three years of living in the United States. You must be married to a citizen for at least three years, and your spouse must be a citizen for the entire three years.
If you are a member of the U.S. Armed Forces, you could be eligible after one year of serving. To qualify, you must be a permanent resident at the time of your citizenship interview and pass the U.S. history and government test and the English test.
The Naturalization Process for Lawful Permanent Residents
Once you determine your eligibility to apply for citizenship, you can start the following process.
- Complete Form N-400, application for naturalization, and gather the necessary documents for your application.
- Submit Form N-400 and pay the necessary fees. You can do both online.
- Have your biometrics taken if USCIS sends you an appointment notice to do so.
- Schedule and attend your interview with USCIS.
- You will receive a decision notice from USCIS.
- If your Form N-400 is approved, you will receive a notice to take the Oath of Allegiance.
Finally, you must take the Oath of Allegiance to the U.S. at a naturalization ceremony.
Talk to the Immigration Lawyers at JAD Law
The U.S. naturalization process for permanent residents can be lengthy and confusing, but an experienced immigration lawyer can help you avoid common errors that create delays and rejections. JAD Law is here to help.
Contact JAD Law today to schedule an appointment.
JAD Law serves several counties across Metro Detroit, Michigan, including Macomb, Oakland, St. Clair, and Wayne counties. JAD Law also serves counties across Northern Michigan, including Grand Traverse, Charlevoix, Benzie, Leelanau, and Antrim counties.
