Citizenship and Naturalization Lawyer

Immigration » Citizenship and naturalization

Naturalization is the process by which a lawful permanent resident becomes a U.S. citizen. USCIS has been reviewing citizenship applications more closely, so checking your record before you file can prevent a denial and the loss of your filing fee.

Basic eligibility

You are at least 18 years old and a lawful permanent resident.
You have been a permanent resident for five years, or for three years if you are married to and living with a U.S. citizen who has been a citizen for three years.
You have maintained continuous residence and been physically present in the United States for the required time.
You have lived in your state or USCIS district for at least three months before filing.
You can read, write and speak basic English and pass the civics test, unless an exemption applies.
You have shown good moral character during the required period.
You are willing to take the Oath of Allegiance.

What has changed

A new civics test applies to applications filed on or after October 20, 2025. Officers ask up to 20 questions from a pool of 128, and applicants must answer 12 correctly.
USCIS applies a stricter review of good moral character and has restored neighborhood investigations in some naturalization cases.
Denial rates have risen, which makes preparation before filing more important.

Issues we review before you file

Long trips outside the United States that may break continuous residence
Arrests, citations or convictions, even old or minor ones
Unpaid taxes or unfiled tax returns
Child support obligations
Selective Service registration for men
Voting or claiming U.S. citizenship by mistake
Prior immigration violations or inconsistent statements
Age and medical exemptions, including Form N-648 for a disability

We can also help with

Certificates of citizenship (Form N-600) for people who may have acquired citizenship through U.S. citizen parents
Interview preparation, responses to RFEs, and appeals or hearings after a denial
Deciding whether naturalization is the right step when your record raises concerns

Frequently asked questions

How long does naturalization take?

Processing times vary by USCIS office and can take a year or more from filing to oath. We explain the current picture when you contact us.

Is it safe to apply if I have an arrest on my record?

It depends on the offense and the outcome. USCIS can refer applicants with serious record problems for removal proceedings, so a review before filing helps you decide whether and when to apply.

Can I be a dual citizen?

The United States allows dual citizenship, but the laws of your other country decide whether you can keep that citizenship.

Do I have to take the test in English?

Most applicants do. Some older long-term residents may take the civics test in their own language, and disability exemptions may apply.

How we work with clients nationwide

We represent clients in all 50 states because immigration law is federal. Every client receives access to our secure client portal, where you can message our firm 24/7, upload documents and follow your case from anywhere. The Law Office of Elena Vlady, PLLC is based in Austin, Texas.

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This page is general information, not legal advice, and reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Immigration rules, fees and processing times change often. Last updated: November 2026.

Last updated:

November 12, 2026