Becoming a U.S. citizen is a dream for many immigrants living in the United States, and it’s a big milestone. But one of the first questions we often hear at Rivas & Associates is: “How long does it take to become a U.S. citizen?”
The answer depends on several factors. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the basics so you can better understand your path to U.S. citizenship and how our immigration team in Tulsa, Oklahoma, can help you every step of the way.
What Is Naturalization?
Naturalization is the legal process that allows individuals born outside the United States to become U.S. citizens. Once naturalized, you can vote, travel freely with a U.S. passport, and help family members immigrate. Most people become eligible through their green card (lawful permanent resident) status.
Who Can Apply for Citizenship?
You may apply for U.S. citizenship if you:
- Are at least 18 years old
- Have had a green card for 3 or 5 years (depending on your situation)
- Have lived in the U.S. for at least half of that time
- Speak basic English (there are exceptions to this rule if you meet other requirements like age and years with green card status)
- Pass a civics and U.S. history test
- Show good moral character (for example, no serious crimes)
Not sure if you qualify yet? We can help you review your case. Our immigration attorney in Tulsa, OK can give you honest, clear guidance on your eligibility and how to move forward.
General Timeline for U.S. Citizenship
So, how long does it take to become a U.S. citizen? On average, here’s what the process looks like:
1. Hold a Green Card (3–5 years)
Most applicants must have a green card for 5 years before applying. If you’re married to a U.S. citizen, you may apply after just 3 years of permanent residency.
2. Prepare and Submit Form N-400 (1–2 months)
This is the application for naturalization. It includes personal history, travel records, and other important information. To avoid mistakes, it’s a good idea to have a “naturalization attorney near me” help with this step.
3. Biometrics Appointment (1–2 months)
USCIS will schedule an appointment to take your fingerprints and photo.
4. USCIS Interview and Civics Test (6–12 months)
This is the most important part. You’ll meet with a United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer, answer questions about your background, and take a test on U.S. history and government. If you pass, USCIS will approve you for naturalization.
5. Oath Ceremony (1–2 months)
Once approved, you’ll attend a naturalization ceremony where you take the Oath of Allegiance. You’ll then receive your certificate of naturalization and officially become a U.S. citizen!
| Step | Timeframe | What Happens |
|---|---|---|
| Green Card Holder | 3–5 years | Maintain permanent residency (3 years if married to a U.S. citizen; otherwise, 5) |
| File Form N-400 | 1–2 months (prep + filing) | Complete and submit the naturalization application |
| Biometrics Appointment | 1–2 months after filing | USCIS collects fingerprints and photo |
| Interview + Civics Test | 6–12 months after filing | Meet with a USCIS officer, answer questions, and take the citizenship test |
| Oath Ceremony | 1–2 months after approval | Attend the ceremony and officially become a U.S. citizen |
What Can Delay the Naturalization Process?
While many people complete the process smoothly, some cases take longer. Common delays include:
- Missing paperwork or errors on the application
- Criminal history or past immigration violations
- Extended travel outside the U.S.
- Backlogs at local USCIS offices
To avoid delays, it’s a good idea to work with a trusted naturalization lawyer. They know how to prepare your application correctly and help you respond to USCIS requests quickly.
Can I Become a Citizen Faster?
A few situations exist where you may qualify for a faster path:
- Military service: Some active-duty members or veterans may be eligible for expedited citizenship.
- Marriage to a U.S. citizen: As mentioned, you may apply after 3 years instead of 5.
Even if you qualify for a faster process, it’s still important to prepare carefully. One mistake could slow everything down or even result in a denial.
Why Work with a Naturalization Attorney?
Applying for citizenship is a big deal, and we know how much it means to you and your family. A “naturalization attorney near me” can:
- Help you gather the proper documents
- Make sure you fill out your N-400 form correctly
- Prepare you for the interview and test
- Represent you if there are any issues with USCIS
At Rivas & Associates, we’ve helped many immigrants in Oklahoma and across the United States achieve their dream of U.S. citizenship. We speak your language, understand your struggles, and care deeply about your future.
Ready to Become a U.S. Citizen? Let Rivas & Associates Guide You
Your journey to becoming a U.S. citizen may seem long, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re just getting started or need help with an existing application, our experienced immigration attorney in Tulsa, OK is here to support you every step of the way.
You’ve already worked hard to build a life in the United States. Let us help you take the final step toward becoming a full citizen. Contact us today at (918) 505-4870 or complete our online form to schedule a consultation.
Rivas & Associates—Empowering Immigrants, Building Futures!
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The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.
Rivas & Associates
2930 S Yale Ave STE A
Tulsa, OK 74114
(844) 37-RIVAS(844) 37-RIVAS
https://www.rivasassociates.com/
