Naturalization for U.S. Residents

Green card holders may apply for naturalization if they have been residents for at least five years and fulfill the following requirements:

• Be 18 or older at the time of filing.
• Have lived within the state or district with jurisdiction over the applicant’s place of residence, for at least 3 months prior to the date the application was filed. 
• Have had continuous residence in the United States as a Green Card holder for at least 5 years.
• Be physically present in the United States for at least 30 months out of the 5 years immediately prior to the date of application. 
• Be able to read, write, and speak English and have an understanding of U.S. History and government.
• Be a person of good moral character and be well disposed to the good order and happiness of the United States.

Naturalization for Spouses of U.S. Citizens

Green card holders may apply for naturalization if they have been residents for at least three years, in the same marital union for the three years immediately preceding the date of filing, and fulfill the following requirements:

• Be 18 or older.
• Have lived within the state or district with jurisdiction over the applicant’s place of residence, for at least 3 months prior to the date the application was filed. 
• Have had continuous residence in the United States as a Green Card holder for at least 3 years.
• Be physically present in the United States for at least 18 months out of the 3 years immediately prior to the date of application. 
• Be able to read, write, and speak English and have an understanding of U.S. History and government
• Be a person of good moral character and be well disposed to the good order and happiness of the United States.

Naturalization Through Parents

Children of a U.S resident may become citizens at birth or after birth, before the age of 18. The law at the time of birth will determine if the child born abroad by a U.S citizen is a citizen. Children can also become citizens after birth and must meet different criteria, depending on whether they reside in or outside of the U.S.

Naturalization Through Military Service

Those who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. military may be eligible to apply for naturalization under special provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

Exemptions

There are also exemptions to the U.S. Citizenship test. 

65/20 “ Exception for Elder Applicants – If you are 65 years or older and have lived in the U.S. as a permanent resident for at least 20 years, you are be eligible for an easier version of the civics examination. 

50/20 and 55/15 Exceptions for Advanced Age – If you are 50 years or older and have lived in the U.S. as a permanent resident for at least 20 years OR you are 55 years or older and have lived in the U.S. as a permanent resident for at least 15 years, your interview and exam can be conducted in your native language.

Why Hire San Fernando Immigration Attorneys

The U.S. immigration law is very complex, and you need to get help from an experienced immigration lawyer in San Fernando Valley when you are facing immigration issues. Contact us today to schedule a consultation so that you can learn more about your rights and how we might be able to help.

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We Help People with Immigration Problems in these Areas of Los Angeles:

Beverly Hills | Encino | Granada Hills | Northridge | Porter Ranch | Santa Clarita | Sherman Oaks | Sun Valley | Van Nuys | Valencia | Valley Glen | Sylmar