Applying for U.S. citizenship means meeting eligibility rules, filing Form N-400, completing biometrics, attending an interview, and passing required tests. For many people, the process is manageable with careful preparation, but small mistakes or timing issues can delay approval. Understanding the steps upfront helps you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Who Is Eligible to Apply for U.S. Citizenship?
Most applicants qualify through naturalization, which requires lawful permanent resident status and a set period of continuous residence. You may be eligible if you meet one of these common paths:
- You have held a green card for at least five years
- You have held a green card for at least three years and are married to a U.S. citizen
- You served honorably in the U.S. military and meet service requirements
In addition to residency, you must generally show good moral character, physical presence in the United States, and an ability to read, write, and speak basic English, with limited exceptions. Continuous residence and physical presence are related, but separate requirements, and extended trips outside the United States can affect eligibility even if you hold a valid green card.
What Is the First Step in the Citizenship Process?
The process begins with filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This application asks for detailed information about your immigration history, residence, employment, and background.
Before filing, we usually recommend reviewing:
- Travel history outside the United States
- Prior immigration filings or petitions
- Any arrests, citations, or court matters, even if dismissed
Accurate answers matter. Inconsistencies between your N-400 and prior records can lead to delays or requests for additional evidence.
What Happens After You File Form N-400?
Once USCIS receives your application, several steps follow in sequence.
Biometrics Appointment
USCIS schedules a biometrics appointment where your fingerprints and photo are taken. These are used for background checks. Rescheduling is possible, but missing the appointment without notice can slow the process.
Citizenship Interview
Next, you attend an in-person interview with a USCIS officer. During the interview, the officer will:
- Review your N-400 line by line
- Ask questions about your background and immigration history
- Administer the English and civics tests, unless you qualify for an exemption
We often help clients prepare by reviewing common interview questions and organizing supporting documents in advance.
What Are the English and Civics Test Requirements?
Most applicants must pass both tests at the interview.
English test requirements include:
- Reading one sentence correctly
- Writing one sentence correctly
- Answering questions verbally in English
Civics test requirements include:
- Answering at least 12 out of up to 20 questions correctly, with USCIS stopping the test once you reach 12 correct answers
Some applicants qualify for age- and residency-based exemptions or accommodations due to medical conditions.
How Long Does the U.S. Citizenship Process Take?
Processing times vary based on USCIS workload and location. In California, many cases take several months from filing to interview, with additional time before the oath ceremony.
Delays can happen if USCIS requests more documents, identifies prior filing issues, or needs further review. Preparing a complete and consistent application helps reduce avoidable setbacks.
What Happens After the Interview?
If your application is approved, USCIS schedules your naturalization oath ceremony. At the ceremony, you take the Oath of Allegiance and officially become a U.S. citizen.
Afterward, you can:
- Apply for a U.S. passport
- Register to vote
- Update your status with employers and government agencies such as the Social Security Administration
If USCIS needs more time or issues a denial, you will receive a written decision explaining next steps and possible options.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for Citizenship
Even strong applicants can run into trouble. Some common issues include:
- Filing too early before meeting residency requirements
- Forgetting past travel or prior immigration filings
- Miscalculating travel days or filing before meeting physical presence requirements
- Assuming old arrests or citations do not matter
- Failing to prepare for the interview and tests
Addressing these issues early often makes the process smoother and more predictable.
Ready to Take the Final Step Toward Citizenship?
U.S. citizenship can open the door to long-term stability, voting rights, and expanded opportunities, but the application process leaves little room for error. We work with clients to confirm eligibility, prepare accurate filings, and approach the interview with confidence. If you are thinking about applying for naturalization, D’Alessio Law can help you take the next step. Contact us to schedule a consultation and discuss your path to U.S. citizenship.
