Naturalization & Citizenship

How to Apply for US Citizenship

If you are eligible, you may apply for U.S. citizenship via an online application or by paper.

Applying for citizenship online:

Create a USCIS online account

Submit evidence

Pay fees electronically

Receive case updates online, communicate with USCIS directly, and respond to requests for evidence

Applying for citizenship via paper:

Complete Form N-400, Application for Naturalization

If applicable, pay the filing fee

Provide evidence

After the application is received online or by paper, you wil be notified of:

Receipt of confirmation that your application was received by USCIS

If applicable, a notice for biometric services

If required, a notice to appear for citizenship interview or exam

Notice of decision

For guidance during the naturalization process, get in touch with a naturalization attorney in Sherman Oaks backed by years of experience. Attorney Anaida Zadykyan can answer al of your questions and help you to ensure that there are no delays to your application.

When Can I Apply For US Citizenship?

Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR): You may apply for citizenship if you have been an LPR for at least 3 to 5 years, depending on your naturalization category.

Green Card Without Special Circumstances: You wil most likely need to wait 5 years from the date of its issuance to apply for naturalization. During this time, you wil need to have physically lived in the country for at least 30 months, or 2.5 years.

Marriage Green Cards: You will need to wait 3 years from the date of issuance and live with your spouse in the country for a minimum of 18 months (or 1.5 years).

In addition to standing behind the U.S. Constitution and confirming your willingness to serve in the U.S. Military if you qualify and are called upon, an individual seeking citizenship must be at least 18 years old. You also cannot have left the country for a period longer than 6 months and not have committed any serious crimes, among other conditions.

Early Filing Dates For Those Who Qualify

Early filing dates are also available to those who are permanent residents under Section 319(a) and 316(a) of the INA, and who meet the citizenship eligibility requirements. If this is your case, you can apply for citizenship 90 days before you complete your permanent residence requirement based on being a permanent resident for 5 years or 3 years if you are married a citizen of the United States. Be sure to count the days correctly, or USCIS will deny your form. For help, feel free to reach out to a citizenship and naturalization attorney in Sherman Oaks.

What is the Naturalization Process?

Before applying, be sure that you meet all the eligibility requirements. If you have questions, reach out to our U.S. citizenship and naturalization attorney in Sherman Oaks to ensure that you have everything that is required.

To apply for naturalization, the requirements are:

You are at least 18 years old when the application is filed.

You have been a lawful permanent resident (LPR) for at least 3 to 5 years. The number of years depends on the naturalization category you are applying under.

You have continuously lived and have maintained a physical presence in the United States.

You can read, write, and speak English.

You are able to demonstrate good moral character.

You can show that you have an understanding of U.S. history and the government.

You are able to demonstrate loyalty to the U.S. Constitution.

You are willing to take an Oath of Allegiance.

If you have served in the United States military, there may be special provisions when it comes to naturalization. Once you become eligible, usually after a multi-year wait period, you must complete several steps before taking the Oath of Allegiance.

How Long Does The Naturalization Process Take?

The naturalization process is different for everyone. On average, the processing of the Form N-400 is about 8 months. However, the entire naturalization process itself takes an average of 15 months - just a little over a year. To ensure that your application and process goes through smoothly, reach out to Zadykyan Law. Our