How long does naturalization take?

12–24 months at most field offices from filing to oath. USCIS publishes current processing times by field office — check before filing to understand your local timeline.

Will I lose my other citizenship?

The US does not require renouncing other citizenships. Whether your original country allows dual citizenship depends on their law — many do, some do not.

Can criminal convictions prevent naturalization?

Yes — aggravated felonies are a permanent bar. DUIs, drug offenses, and other matters affect good moral character and must be disclosed. Never file N-400 without disclosing complete criminal history to an immigration attorney first.

What if I fail the civics test?

You have two chances — at the initial interview and at a rescheduled interview within 60–90 days. If you fail twice, your N-400 is denied and you may refile. The 100 civics questions are publicly available on the USCIS website — prepare thoroughly.

US Citizenship & Naturalization — Find Trusted Immigration Legal Services Professionals

What Is US Citizenship & Naturalization?

Naturalization provides full US rights — a US passport, the right to vote, petition for additional family members, and complete protection from deportation.

Eligibility Requirements

Standard path: 5 years as LPR (3 years if married to US citizen). Also required: continuous residence (no single absence over 6 months without disrupting the clock), physical presence (30+ months for 5-year applicants), good moral character, and English and civics knowledge.

The N-400 Process

Form N-400 filed with USCIS ($760 for most applicants). Biometrics: 2–3 months. Interview: 6–18 months (varies by field office). The civics test requires answering 6 of 10 questions correctly from a list of 100. Oath ceremony: 2–3 months after approval.

Special Provisions

Spouses of military members serving abroad may qualify for expedited naturalization. Children under 18 who are LPRs in custody of a naturalizing US citizen parent automatically acquire citizenship under the Child Citizenship Act.

Dual Citizenship

The US does not require renunciation of other citizenships. Whether your original country permits dual citizenship is a question of that country's law — many do, some do not. Consult an attorney familiar with your country's citizenship rules.

What to Look for in a Immigration Law Provider

Active state bar license — verify through your state bar's public lookup
AILA (American Immigration Lawyers Association) membership — indicates specialization
Experience specifically in your case type (family, employment, asylum, removal defense)
No disciplinary history — check your state bar and AILA
Clear written fee agreement before any work begins
Responsive communication — immigration has strict deadlines that require timely attorney action

Professional US Citizenship & Naturalization