Naturalization (N-400) | Immigration & Naturalization Lawyers

Naturalization is the process of becoming a U.S. citizen for people born outside the U.S. who do not meet the requirements for automatic acquisition of citizenship. If you’re looking to become a citizen, you’ll need to ensure that you are eligible, file a Naturalization (N-400) form, and complete several other steps in the process.

Working with a qualified immigration lawyer can help you confirm eligibility before investing in the application and can streamline your naturalization process. At Robert M. Bell P.A., we have extensive experience helping immigrants achieve naturalization with as little stress as possible.

What Is Naturalization?

Naturalization is a legal act by which a non-citizen of the U.S. acquires citizenship. This process enables a person to have permanent stability in the U.S. and obtain the other benefits of citizenship within the country.

What Is the Naturalization (N-400) Form?

One of the first steps in the naturalization process is submitting the Naturalization (N-400) form. This form is your application to become a naturalized U.S. citizen. It asks for a wide range of information to determine your eligibility to become a citizen. You’ll need to include information about the following:

Your basic eligibility
Your demographics
Your contact details
Your current and previous residences
Your parents
Your employment and schools
Your time outside the U.S.
Your marital history
And more

Filing this form with the assistance of an attorney can help you relay the correct details and avoid any mistakes that could prolong your case.

Naturalization Eligibility

Before filing the N-400 form, you must confirm your eligibility for naturalization. This process includes proving that you have a U.S. green card for lawful permanent residence in the U.S. You must also meet the following eligibility requirements:

Have at least five years of lawful permanent residence in the U.S. (with a few exceptions)
Have not spent more than one continuous year outside the U.S. during the last five years
Justify any absences in excess of 6 months
Live in the state of filing (Florida) for at least three months
Be at least 18 years of age and of good moral character
Be able to read, write, and speak English unless you have a medical disability
Pass a U.S. government and history test
Swear allegiance to the Constitution and form of government of the U.S.

What Are the Other Steps in the Naturalization Process?

Once you confirm your eligibility for naturalization and file the Naturalization (N-400) application, you must wait to learn whether your application is accepted. If it is, you will complete a background check that includes fingerprinting. Then, you must attend an appointment for an interview with a USCIS officer.

During your interview, the officer will review and confirm the answers on your N-400. You must also take an exam that tests your ability to read, write, and speak English and your knowledge of the U.S. government and history.

Finally, you will attend a public oath ceremony where you swear U.S. loyalty. After this ceremony, you will receive your certificate of naturalization.

If you need help filing the Naturalization (N-400) application, don’t hesitate to contact our attorneys. We’d be happy to represent you through this process.

Contact the attorneys at Robert M. Bell, P.A. at 954-241-4209 to schedule your consultation.