Naturalization

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Naturalization Lawyer

Naturalization is the legal process through which a lawful permanent resident becomes a U.S. citizen. It is the culmination of years of building a life in this country, and it comes with rights and protections that a green card alone cannot provide.

At The Pablos Law Firm, P.C., we guide permanent residents through every stage of the naturalization process, from evaluating your eligibility to preparing you for your interview and civics test. Our naturalization lawyers serve clients all over the United States, providing assistance in both English and Spanish. Call (915) 543-9100 to speak with one of our experts.

What Naturalization Gives You

A green card allows you to live and work in the United States permanently. However, it can be revoked, it must be renewed, and it does not give you a voice in the political process as U.S. citizenship does. As a naturalized U.S. citizen, you gain:

  • The right to vote in federal, state, and local elections
  • A U.S. passport and the right to travel with the full protection of the U.S. government
  • The ability to petition for additional family members to immigrate
  • Protection from deportation and removal
  • Eligibility for federal jobs and certain government benefits
  • The right to live abroad without losing your status
  • The ability to pass citizenship to your children

Are You Eligible for Naturalization?

Most applicants pursue naturalization under the standard five-year rule, but several pathways exist depending on your circumstances.

Five-Year Rule: General Eligibility

If you have been a lawful permanent resident for at least five years, then you qualify for general naturalization eligibility. This means you may apply for naturalization if you meet the following requirements:

  • Been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months of your five years as a permanent resident
  • Maintained continuous residence without extended absences
  • Are 18 years of age or older
  • Have demonstrated good moral character throughout the five-year period of permanent residence
  • Can read, write, and speak basic English
  • Can pass the civics test on U.S. history and government

Three-Year Rule: Spouses of U.S. Citizens

If you have been married to and living with the same U.S. citizen for at least three years, and you have held your green card for three years, you may be eligible to apply on an accelerated timeline. Get in touch with us to discuss your eligibility for this category.

Military Service

Current and former members of the U.S. armed forces may qualify under special provisions that modify or eliminate some of the standard requirements. This commonly provides an exception to the physical presence requirement.

Children of U.S. Citizens

A child under 18 who is a lawful permanent resident may automatically acquire U.S. citizenship when a parent naturalizes, depending on the circumstances. We advise families on derivative citizenship and Certificate of Citizenship applications.

The Naturalization Process, Step by Step

Step 1: Eligibility Review

Before filing anything, we conduct a thorough review of your immigration history, travel record, criminal background, tax compliance, and any other factors that could affect your eligibility. This is the step that prevents surprises later.

Step 2: Prepare and File Form N-400

The Application for Naturalization is the foundation of your case. We prepare it carefully, gather all required supporting documents, and submit everything together, organized and complete.

Required documentation typically includes:

  • A copy of your green card (front and back)
  • Two U.S. passport-style photographs
  • Evidence of continuous residence and physical presence
  • Marriage certificate (if applying under the three-year rule)
  • Additional documents specific to your situation

Step 3: Biometrics Appointment

After USCIS receives your application, they will schedule an appointment to collect your fingerprints and photograph for background check purposes.

Step 4: USCIS Interview

You will be scheduled for an in-person interview at your local USCIS field office. The officer will review your application, verify your documents, assess your English proficiency, and administer the English and Civics Test. You will also need to demonstrate good moral character, including positive contributions to society, and must be willing to disclose your social media.

Your ability to speak and understand English will be determined by a USCIS officer during your eligibility interview. You will be asked to read aloud one out of three sentences correctly and to write one out of three sentences correctly to demonstrate an ability to read and write in English.

The civics test is an oral test consisting of 20 questions drawn from a list of 128 questions about U.S. history and government. You must answer at least 12 correctly to pass.

There are some exceptions to these language and civics requirements depending on your particular situation. We prepare every client for this examination in advance or evaluate whether an exception applies.

Step 5: Decision

If USCIS approves your application, you will be scheduled for a naturalization ceremony. If additional evidence is needed, USCIS will issue a Request for Evidence. In rare cases, an application may be denied, but there are options to appeal.

Step 6: Oath of Allegiance

At the naturalization ceremony, you take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States. At that moment, you become a U.S. citizen. Your Certificate of Naturalization will be presented to you at the ceremony.

Why Choose The Pablos Law Firm, P.C.

We only file applications that are thoroughly prepared and complete. Every N-400 that leaves our office has been reviewed carefully for accuracy and consistency with your supporting documents. You’ll also receive top-notch interview preparation from a team of naturalization lawyers who know what to expect. With The Pablos Law Firm, P.C., you’ll reap the benefits of:

  • Over 20 years of experience
  • Locally owned & operated business
  • Clear and continuous communication in both English and Spanish
  • Professionals recognized by several legal associations
    ○ American Immigration Lawyers’ Association (AILA)
    ○ American Bar Association (ABA)
    ○ Texas Bar Association
    ○ El Paso Bar Association (EPBA)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for naturalization if I have been outside the U.S. for a long time?

It depends on the length and frequency of your absences and whether you took steps to preserve your residence. We analyze your travel history during your consultation and give you an honest assessment.

You will have one more opportunity to take the test, typically scheduled within 60 to 90 days of your initial interview. If you fail a second time, your application will be denied, requiring you to restart the application process. We prepare every client to pass on the first attempt.

Yes, it can. USCIS evaluates arrests and citations even without a conviction. We review your complete record before filing and advise you on how to address any issues.

Applicants who are 50 years old and have been permanent residents for at least 20 years, or who are 55 and have held their green card for at least 15 years, are exempt from the English requirement. Others may qualify for a disability exemption. We evaluate your situation individually.

Processing times vary by location and fluctuate throughout the year. We provide current estimates based on published processing times during your consultation.

The United States does not require you to renounce your prior nationality, but your home country may have its own rules. We advise clients on dual nationality implications during your consultation.

Schedule Your Initial Consultation

Become a Naturalized U.S. Citizen

Naturalization is the last step in a journey you have already worked hard to get this far in. Let The Pablos Law Firm, P.C. make sure it goes the way it should. Call our office today at (915) 543-9100 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with a seasoned naturalization lawyer.

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