Naturalization & U.S. Citizenship

How do I become a U.S. citizen?

If you've been a green card holder for a while, you may be eligible to naturalize — to become a full U.S. citizen, with the right to vote, carry a U.S. passport, and sponsor family more easily. You file Form N-400, attend an interview, pass an English and civics test, and take the oath. For many people with a clean, straightforward history, it's the final step of a long journey.

Who qualifies?

• You've been a permanent resident for 5 years — or 3 years if you got your green card through marriage to a U.S. citizen and are still married to them.

• You've lived in the U.S. long enough to meet the residence and physical-presence rules.

• You're a person of good moral character.

• You can meet the basic English and civics requirements (some applicants qualify for exceptions based on age or disability).

Do I even need a lawyer for this?

Honestly? Not always. A clean, simple naturalization case is one many people handle on their own, and I'll tell you straight if yours is one of them. But some situations deserve a lawyer's eye before you file — a criminal record, long trips outside the country, missed taxes or selective service, prior immigration problems, or anything that made your green card complicated. When something like that is in the picture, a mistake on the N-400 can put your green card itself at risk. If you're not sure which camp you're in, that's exactly what a consultation is for.

What I do for you

I review your history for anything that could trip you up, prepare and file the N-400, get you ready for the interview and the test, and stand with you if a complication comes up. If you were my client for your fiancé or marriage case, I already know your file. Twenty-five years at this, for clients across the country, entirely online. Filipino spoken.

How much does it cost?

My fee is approximately $1,500, plus the government's filing fee. Low, predictable fees, with discounts in some situations — just ask.