Imagine the moment when you raise your right hand, take the Oath of Allegiance, and officially become a U.S. citizen. That powerful moment of belonging, of finally being able to tell yourself with a great sense of relief, “This is my country now.”

At Guerreros Law, we don’t just see naturalization as a legal process—we see it as the culmination of your personal journey, your sacrifices, and your dreams.

Our founding attorney, Stephanie Reinert, has walked alongside hundreds of immigrants on this journey. As a native Spanish speaker with over ten years of experience, she brings both practical experience and heartfelt understanding to every case.

Are you ready to achieve one of your life’s most meaningful milestones? We are here to guide you through this exciting journey with our citizenship and naturalization services. Request a consultation today by calling 888-828-0045 or contacting us online. 

What Is Citizenship by Naturalization?

Naturalization is the process through which foreign-born residents become U.S. citizens. Unlike citizenship by birth, naturalization requires an application, testing, and an oath of allegiance to the United States. 

Have you been a permanent resident for several years? If so, you might want to explore your options for naturalization to finally enjoy full citizenship rights, including voting, holding public office, and gaining protection from deportation. 

Eligibility Requirements for Naturalization

According to the official website of the United States government, you need to meet the following eligibility criteria to qualify for naturalization: 

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have been a permanent resident (green card holder) for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen)
• Demonstrate continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S.
• Show good moral character (that means having the ability to demonstrate fairness, honesty, and respect for the rights of others)
• Pass an English language test (with some exceptions)
• Pass a civics test about U.S. government and history
• Take an oath of allegiance to the United States 

Do you meet these requirements? If you’re unsure about some aspects, our citizenship and naturalization lawyer at Guerreros Law can evaluate your situation and find the best path forward. 

Steps in the Naturalization Process

If you’re interested in becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization, do you know what helps remove half the stress from the naturalization process? It’s knowing what comes next and what steps you will have to take. So what exactly does this journey look like?

1. Determine your eligibility: We’ll help you confirm if you qualify under current immigration rules.
2. Complete and file Form N-400: This is your Application for Naturalization, which we’ll prepare to make sure everything is correct and avoid delays.
3. Attend your biometrics appointment: You’ll provide fingerprints and photos for background checks.
4. Complete your naturalization interview: You’ll answer questions about your application and take the English and civics tests.
5. Wait for a decision: USCIS will approve, deny, or continue your case for additional evidence.
6. Take the Oath of Allegiance: If approved, you’ll attend a ceremony to become a U.S. citizen.
7. Receive your Certificate of Naturalization: This document serves as proof of your U.S. citizenship.

Feeling a bit confused and anxious about the process? Here’s the good news: you don’t have to go through the naturalization process alone. At Guerreros Law, we have guided people just like you through this exact process, anticipating roadblocks before they happen and celebrating each milestone along the way. 

How Can a Citizenship & Naturalization Attorney Help?

Even seemingly straightforward cases encounter unexpected challenges sometimes. Without legal counsel, you risk making mistakes that could put your application in jeopardy. At Guerreros Law, we:

• Evaluate your eligibility and identify potential issues before filing
• Prepare a complete and accurate application package
• Help gather and organize supporting documents
• Prepare you for your interview and citizenship tests
• Represent you if complications arise
• Address concerns related to past immigration violations or criminal history
• Navigate waiver requests for certain requirements
• Advocate for you if your application faces delays or denials

Our attorneys have successfully represented clients against some of the most challenging immigration rules implemented by recent administrations. When you work with us, you get a fierce advocate who turns your citizenship dreams into reality. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Citizenship & Naturalization

How long does naturalization take?

The naturalization process can generally range anywhere from 12 to 24 months from the date of filing to oath ceremony. However, processing times vary by location and individual circumstances. If you work with an attorney, they will help you avoid unnecessary delays and make sure your case moves as fast as possible. 

What documents do I need for naturalization?

You will typically need your green card, valid passports from the last five years, a driver’s license or state ID, Social Security card, Tax returns for the required period, marriage certificate (if applicable), divorce documents (if applicable), documentation of name changes, travel records for trips outside the U.S., as well as court and police records (if you have any arrests). 

If you are missing any of these documents, consider contacting an attorney to help determine which alternatives might satisfy requirements. 

What is a naturalization test?

The naturalization test has two components: English test (to evaluate your ability to read, write, and speak basic English) and civics test (to assess your knowledge of U.S. government and history). 

If you don’t pass the English or civics test, USCIS will reschedule your interview for another day, usually within 60-90 days. You will retake only the portion you failed. However, if you fail a second time, your application will be denied and you will have to reapply and start the process again. 

Will my criminal record affect my naturalization application?

A criminal record can affect your application, but it doesn’t automatically disqualify you. The impact depends on the type of offense (misdemeanor/felony), when it occurred, and whether it affects the “good moral character” requirement.  If an applicant has several DUI or DWI offenses they need to be especially careful when considering submitting an application for citizenship. Talk to an attorney today to learn more about whether you can naturalize if you have a criminal record.

If you’re applying for naturalization and have a prior criminal history, read our guide on how criminal records affect naturalization.

Does the law limit how many times I can apply for naturalization?

No, there’s no legal limit on how many times you can apply for naturalization. If your application is denied, you can reapply when you’ve addressed the reasons for denial. 

However, multiple denied applications can create complications and potentially trigger closer scrutiny. Working with a citizenship and naturalization attorney from the start can save you time, money, and stress. 

Is naturalization the same thing as citizenship?

Naturalization and citizenship are related but they are not the same thing. Naturalization is the process through which someone becomes a U.S. citizen if they were born outside of the United States. Citizenship is the status of being a citizen of a particular country.

Can you appeal a denial of citizenship in the United States?

Yes, it is possible to seek a USCIS hearing in order to appeal a denial of an application for citizenship. Please speak to an experienced immigration attorney to learn more about how to appeal a denial on a naturalization application.

Is it possible to be a citizen of the United States and not know it?

It is possible that some individuals may be U.S. citizens without knowing. An individual may be a citizen if they were born abroad to at least one parent that was a U.S. citizen, or if one of their parents became a naturalization U.S. citizen before the child’s 18th birthday. There are methods available to track down information that may assist in proving that someone is a United States citizen.

Ready to Take the Next Step Toward U.S. Citizenship? Call Guerreros Law

At Guerreros Law, we pride ourselves on being warriors. And becoming a citizen through naturalization can be quite the fight. 

Aren’t sure how to begin your journey to U.S. citizenship? Well, it all starts with a simple “hello.” We are here to listen to your unique situation and explain to you what to do to make your dream a reality. No obligation, no pressure. Just answers, clarity, and a way forward. 

Call 888-828-0045 or contact us online to request a consultation and get started from there.