U.S. Naturalization Attorney
Orange County, California

What Is Naturalization?

Naturalization is the legal process by which a non-U.S. citizen voluntarily becomes a U.S. citizen. For most permanent residents (green card holders), naturalization is available after 5 years of continuous residence — or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen and residing with them throughout.

U.S. citizenship provides rights not available to green card holders: the right to vote, a U.S. passport, the ability to petition for a broader range of family members, eligibility for certain federal jobs, and protection from deportation.

Eligibility Requirements

• Lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen)
• Continuous residence in the U.S. (no extended absences breaking continuity)
• Physical presence in the U.S. for at least 30 months (18 months for 3-year path)
• Resided in the USCIS district where you file for at least 3 months
• Good moral character for the statutory period
• Ability to read, write, and speak basic English
• Pass the civics test (100 questions on U.S. history and government)

The Naturalization Process

• 1

  Eligibility review

  H&H Law reviews your green card history, travel records, criminal history (if any), and tax compliance to confirm eligibility and flag any issues before filing.

• 2

  File Form N-400

  Prepare and file the Application for Naturalization with USCIS. H&H Law reviews all answers carefully — errors or omissions on the N-400 can cause serious delays or denials.

• 3

  Biometrics appointment

  USCIS schedules a biometrics appointment to collect fingerprints, photographs, and a signature.

• 4

  USCIS interview

  An officer reviews your application, tests your English, and administers the civics test (10 questions from the 100-question pool). H&H Law provides interview preparation in your preferred language.

• 5

  Oath of Allegiance

  After approval, you take the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony and receive your Certificate of Naturalization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers by Austin Kim, J.D. · Updated May 2026