Citizenship Attorney for Naturalization Applications

The naturalization process typically takes 8-24 months from filing to oath ceremony, depending on USCIS processing times and your local field office. We monitor your case throughout the process and keep you informed of any updates or requirements.

If you don't pass the English or civics test on your first try, USCIS will schedule a re-examination. You'll have a second opportunity to take the portion of the test you didn't pass. We provide additional preparation to help you succeed on your second attempt.

Yes, as a permanent resident you can travel while your N-400 is pending, but extended trips may affect your continuous residence requirement. We advise on travel implications and help you maintain eligibility throughout the process.

This depends on your country of origin's laws regarding dual citizenship. The U.S. allows dual citizenship, but some countries require you to renounce your original citizenship. We can help you understand the implications for your specific situation.

Not necessarily, but it depends on the nature and timing of the offense. USCIS evaluates your "good moral character" during the 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen) before filing. Minor offenses like traffic violations typically don't affect eligibility, but DUIs, domestic violence, fraud, or theft can be problematic. Certain serious crimes create permanent bars to citizenship. We'll review your complete criminal history during consultation, determine how it may impact your application, help you gather necessary court records and rehabilitation evidence, and advise whether you should wait longer before applying or proceed now with a detailed explanation.

Yes, there are age and residence-based exemptions. If you're 50 or older and have been a permanent resident for at least 20 years, or 55 or older with at least 15 years of permanent residence, you can take the civics test in your native language and are exempt from the English requirement. Additionally, if you're 65 or older with 20+ years of permanent residence, you qualify for a simpler version of the civics test with just 20 questions instead of 100, and you can take it in your language. Medical exemptions are also available if you have a physical or developmental disability that prevents you from learning English or civics. We can help determine which exemptions you qualify for and prepare the necessary documentation.

Frequent travel for work can complicate but doesn't necessarily prevent your citizenship application. You must maintain "continuous residence" and be physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months out of the past 5 years (or 18 months out of 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen). Trips under 6 months generally don't break continuous residence, but trips between 6-12 months create a presumption that you abandoned U.S. residence unless you can prove otherwise. We'll carefully review your travel history, help you calculate physical presence, determine if you meet the requirements, and if needed, gather employment letters, tax returns, and other evidence showing you maintained U.S. ties during your work travel. Sometimes it's strategic to wait a few more months to strengthen your case.