If you’re a lawful permanent resident ready to apply for U.S. citizenship, you’re about to take one of the most meaningful steps in your immigration journey. Naturalization is the process that grants you the full rights and responsibilities of being a U.S. citizen, including voting, holding a U.S. passport, and sponsoring family members. To get started, it’s essential to understand both the eligibility criteria and the steps you’ll need to complete. While the process may seem overwhelming initially, it becomes manageable when you know what to expect, especially with the proper support.

To qualify for naturalization, you typically need to have held lawful permanent resident (green card) status for at least five years. During this time, you must show continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S., demonstrate good moral character, and pass an English and civics test. If you’re married to a U.S. citizen, the required waiting period is shortened to three years, provided you’ve lived with your spouse and your spouse has maintained their citizenship status. Additionally, you must be at least 18 years old and willing to support the principles of the United States Constitution.

If you’re serving or have served in the U.S. military, you may be eligible for a streamlined path to citizenship. Active-duty members, veterans, and even specific individuals who served during designated periods of conflict can often apply without meeting the usual residency and physical presence requirements. There are also exceptions for individuals with disabilities or those over a certain age who have lived in the U.S. for an extended period. Understanding whether you qualify for exceptions can significantly affect how quickly and easily you move through the process.

Once you have determined your eligibility, you’ll submit Form N-400, the Application for Naturalization, along with the required documents and fees. After that, you’ll attend a biometrics appointment and an interview with a USCIS officer. This interview includes questions about your application and a test covering English language skills and U.S. civics knowledge. If everything goes well, you’ll receive a notice for a naturalization ceremony, where you’ll take the Oath of Allegiance and officially become a U.S. citizen. Each step must be completed carefully, as minor errors can lead to delays or denials.

Applying for naturalization is a big decision; having guidance makes all the difference. At Victor Hernandez Law, you’ll get support that goes beyond form-filing. You’ll have someone who understands the emotional and legal weight of this milestone and ensures every step is handled correctly and with care. If any complications arise, from missing documentation to concerns about background checks, you’ll have an advocate ready to help resolve them. Contact Victor Hernandez Law today to schedule your consultation and confidently take the next step toward U.S. citizenship.