Citizenship
From permanent resident to citizen
Most permanent residents can apply after five years, or after three if they've been married to a citizen that long. The application asks about your whole life here, so we read it the way an officer will.
Before we file, we go over your travel, any arrest or ticket, your taxes and, for men, Selective Service. Most of the time nothing turns up. When something does, it's far better to find it in our office than at your interview. If you're older and have lived here many years, you may be able to take the civics test in Spanish.
What we check before you file
- 01
Time and travel
How long you've been a resident, and whether a long trip abroad broke the continuous residence the law asks for.
- 02
Your record
Any arrest, charge or ticket, even one that was dismissed. We get the court papers so you can answer truthfully and calmly.
- 03
Taxes and support
Returns filed for the years that count and, if you pay child support, proof that payments are current.
- 04
Your children
Children under 18 with green cards may become citizens automatically when you do. We file for their certificates.
Questions about citizenship
Can I take the test in Spanish?
If you're 50 or older and have been a resident for 20 years, or 55 or older with 15 years, you can skip the English test and take the civics test in Spanish with an interpreter. Some disabilities also qualify for an exemption, with a form from your doctor.
What happens at the interview?
An officer goes over your application with you under oath, then gives the English and civics tests. A lawyer from our office can attend with you. Most people learn the same day whether they passed.
Could applying put my green card at risk?
For most people, no. But the application reopens your whole history, and a few old problems can lead to removal. That's why we review your record before anything is filed, and tell you plainly if it's better to wait.
Find out if it's time to apply
Bring your green card, your passports and a list of your trips outside the country.