Naturalization

Naturalization – How to Become a U.S. Citizen

Naturalization is a process that allows foreign-born persons to obtain citizenship in the United States after he or she fulfills certain requirements.

Obtaining the American Dream

If you have made the decision to apply for naturalization, let us be the first to say congratulations! Flora Legal Group would be proud to be a part of your journey. Our Indianapolis-based law firm will work with you to decide the best course of action and provide support throughout the entire process. See our infograph on the steps to become a U.S. citizen.

How do you become a U.S. citizen through naturalization?

To be eligible to become a US citizen through naturalization, you must:

• Be a lawful permanent resident of the United States for 5 years, or 3 years if married to a US citizen for a minimum of the 3 years;
• Be physically present in the United States for over 50% of the required residency period;
• Be a person of good moral character;
• Take an oath of loyalty to the United States;
• Be able to speak, read, and write simple words and phrases in the English language; and
• Pass a test in US history and government.

Hiring an immigration lawyer can ensure that you are well informed throughout each step of the naturalization process. An immigration lawyer can also help you determine whether you are exempt from any of the necessary steps.  The experienced immigration lawyers at Flora Legal Group have many years of experience guiding foreign-born persons through the complicated naturalization process and are ready to help you.

Dedicated Advocacy in Indianapolis, Indiana

When you partner with Flora Legal Group, you don’t have to be afraid of missing a crucial step or making mistakes that could cost you your citizenship. Our immigration lawyers understand the complexities of the naturalization process.

Let us protect your rights to citizenship. Call our Indianapolis law office today at (317) 983-3437 to schedule a consultation. We look forward to helping you become a citizen of this great country we call home.

Once you become a citizen of the United States, you may sponsor your spouse, parents, sons and daughters, as well as your brothers and sisters for lawful permanent residence in the United States.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for the naturalization process? 

The naturalization process can take 1-2 years from the time you apply for citizenship.  Completing your application right the first time — and getting started on the process as early as possible is crucial to a successful naturalization process.  The experienced naturalization lawyers at Flora Legal Group can help you ensure a timely process.

What all is involved in the naturalization process?

Generally, there is a four-step process to the naturalization process:

1. Submit application with documentation
2. Attend biometrics appointment
3. Attend naturalization interview
4. Attend oath ceremony

How do you study for the naturalization test?

Most individuals applying for citizenship are required to complete a citizenship test. This exam will test your ability to use the English language (reading, writing, and speaking) as well as your knowledge of both the history and the government of the U.S. You can use USCIS’s resources to study for the test.

What happens at the biometrics appointment?

During the biometrics appointment, USCIS will collect your fingerprints, photograph, and signature.  Note that USCIS will use this photograph for the Certificate of Naturalization, so you should dress in appropriate clothing for the biometrics appointment.   You will be required to sign an oath reaffirming that you provided or authorized all the information in the application, understand the information, and that the information was complete, true, and correct at the time of filing.

After this appointment, USCIS will send you a notice with the location, date, and time of your naturalization interview.  You will also receive a list of documents to bring with you to the interview.

What can I expect at the naturalization interview?

At the interview, a USCIS officer will ask you to take an oath to tell the truth, then ask you questions about your naturalization application and test your knowledge of English, history, and civics.  The officer will ask if any information you wrote on your application has changed. They may ask about any information that is different from what you wrote on your permanent resident application. Be prepared in advance to explain any differences or changes.

If I am approved for citizenship, when will my Certificate of Naturalization expire?

Once you are approved for citizenship, your Certificate of Naturalization does not expire.