Naturalization & U.S. Citizenship

Becoming a U.S. citizen is one of the most meaningful immigration benefits offered by the United States. Over the past decade, more than 8 million individuals have joined our American family through naturalization. If you are ready to take this important step, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Why Citizenship Matters

Naturalization is more than just a legal process—it is a lifelong commitment to the values that define the United States. As a U.S. citizen, you gain access to the full rights, protections, and responsibilities under the law, including the right to vote, access to certain government benefits, and the ability to petition for loved ones to immigrate.

Eligibility for Naturalization

Individuals age 18 or older may apply for naturalization using Form N-400. To be eligible under the general requirements of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), applicants must:

Be at least 18 years old
Be a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder)
Have lived in the U.S. as a permanent resident for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen)
Have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months (or 18 months if married to a U.S. citizen)
Be a person of good moral character
Demonstrate proficiency in English
Understand U.S. history and government (civics)
Be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States

The Process

Once your complete Form N-400 and supporting documentation are submitted, USCIS will schedule an interview. If approved, you will be invited to a naturalization ceremony, where you will take the Oath of Allegiance and officially become a U.S. citizen.

Citizenship Through Parents – Form N-600 and N-600K

Certain children under the age of 18 may acquire U.S. citizenship through their U.S. citizen parent(s). If eligible, they may apply for a Certificate of Citizenship using one of the following:

Form N-600 (Automatic Citizenship under INA § 320)

Applies when:

At least one parent is a U.S. citizen (by birth or naturalization)
The child is under 18 years old
The child is a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder)
The child resides in the United States in the legal and physical custody of the U.S. citizen parent

Children who meet these requirements automatically acquire U.S. citizenship by operation of law. Form N-600 is used to obtain official proof of citizenship.

Form N-600K (Citizenship for Children Residing Outside the U.S. under INA § 322)

Applies when:

The child resides outside the U.S.
The child has a U.S. citizen parent (or grandparent) who meets physical presence requirements in the U.S.
The child is under 18 and in the legal and physical custody of the U.S. citizen parent
The child will temporarily travel to the U.S. to complete the process

This process allows certain children living abroad to apply for citizenship without becoming permanent residents first.

Special Provisions & Exemptions

Spouses of U.S. citizens: May apply after 3 years of residency; may be exempt from certain physical presence rules if their spouse is stationed abroad.
U.S. military members: May qualify for naturalization without meeting residence or age requirements if they served honorably during designated periods.
Children of U.S. citizens: May automatically acquire citizenship under INA § 320 (N-600) or apply from abroad under INA § 322 (N-600K).

How We Can Help

Navigating the path to citizenship—whether through naturalization or acquisition—is a complex process. At our firm, we are committed to helping you every step of the way.

We provide personalized legal support to help you:

Determine your eligibility for Form N-400, N-600, or N-600K
Prepare and file your application
Gather and submit supporting documentation
Prepare for the naturalization interview and civics exam (if applicable)
Address unique situations, exemptions, or accommodations

Let us help you take the next step toward U.S. citizenship.