Residency & Citizenship
U.S. Citizenship Naturalization N-400
U.S. citizenship is the greatest benefit the American immigration system offers. Attorney Jesus Reyes prepares you for the civics test, the interview, and the oath ceremony from Miami.
Becoming a U.S. citizen through the naturalization process grants you the right to vote, apply for a U.S. passport, petition for family members in broader categories, and protection from deportation. If you are already a lawful permanent resident and meet the requirements, this is the most important step you can take in your immigration journey.
What Is the Naturalization Process?
Naturalization is the legal process by which a foreign national who already holds permanent residence (a "green card") becomes a U.S. citizen. The process begins with filing Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) with USCIS. After filing, USCIS schedules a biometrics appointment, an interview with an immigration officer, and — if everything is in order — an oath of allegiance ceremony.
At the naturalization interview, the officer verifies the information on Form N-400, assesses English proficiency (reading, writing, and oral comprehension), and administers the civics test, in which the applicant must correctly answer at least 6 of 10 questions selected from a bank of 100 questions about American history and government. Applicants in Miami who qualify for English exemptions (age 50+ with 20 years of permanent residence, or age 55+ with 15 years) may take the civics test in their native language.
The full naturalization process, from filing the N-400 to the oath ceremony, typically takes 8 to 18 months depending on the USCIS field office and the applicant's individual circumstances. Our Miami firm prepares you meticulously for each stage and verifies that there is no factor in your history that could complicate the application.
Who Can Apply for U.S. Citizenship?
To apply for naturalization, the lawful permanent resident must meet the following general requirements:
- Have been a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for at least 5 continuous years, or 3 years if married to and living with a U.S. citizen throughout that period.
- Have been physically present in the United States for at least half of the required continuous residence period (2.5 years out of 5, or 18 months out of 3).
- Not have taken any single trip abroad lasting more than 6 months; trips exceeding 6 months may break the continuous residence requirement.
- Be at least 18 years of age at the time of filing the application.
- Demonstrate good moral character during the required continuous residence period (no certain criminal convictions or disqualifying conduct).
- Pass the English test (reading, writing, and oral comprehension) and the 100-question civics test, unless exempt due to age and years of permanent residence.
The Process with Our Firm
Eligibility Evaluation and History Review
Attorney Jesus Reyes reviews your travel history, criminal record (if any), tax compliance history, and any other factor USCIS will evaluate in the naturalization application. It is better to identify and resolve any issues before filing Form N-400.
Preparation and Filing of Form N-400
We prepare Form N-400 with precision, review each answer to ensure accuracy, and file with USCIS online or by mail as best suited for your case. We provide you with the confirmation number and outline the next steps.
Interview Preparation and Civics Test Study
We provide study materials for the 100 civics questions, conduct simulated interview practice with you, and prepare you to correctly answer the USCIS officer's questions about your application and your life.
Oath Ceremony and U.S. Passport
After your interview is approved, we advise you on the oath of allegiance ceremony. Following the ceremony, we guide you on applying for your U.S. passport and updating your identity documents.
Frequently Asked Questions about U.S. Citizenship
Can I keep my original citizenship if I naturalize as a U.S. citizen?+
It depends on your country of origin. The United States generally permits dual citizenship, but some countries do not recognize or even prohibit it. For example, Cuba has recognized dual citizenship since 1994; Colombia also permits it; Venezuela has restrictions. We recommend consulting with an attorney in your country of origin before naturalizing to understand the specific implications.
What happens if I fail the civics test at the interview?+
If you do not pass the civics test (or the English test) at the first interview, USCIS will schedule a second interview within 60 to 90 days, giving you another opportunity to pass only the section you failed. If you also fail at the second opportunity, USCIS will deny the naturalization application and you must re-file Form N-400.
Do frequent trips abroad affect my eligibility?+
Yes. Single trips abroad of more than 6 continuous months are presumed to break continuous residence, though this can be rebutted with evidence. Trips of more than one year automatically break continuous residence and restart the clock on the required period. Trips under 6 months are permitted but count as time outside the U.S., which affects the physical presence requirement.
Can criminal records or tax problems block naturalization?+
Yes. USCIS evaluates "good moral character" during the 5 years before filing (3 if applying based on marriage). Crimes like aggravated felonies create permanent bars; other offenses may require an additional waiting period. Outstanding tax debts without an active IRS payment plan, unfiled returns, or unpaid child support can also result in denial. Before filing the N-400 we review your full history to identify risks and, when necessary, wait for the right strategic moment to apply.
Do my children also become citizens when I naturalize?+
Under the Child Citizenship Act of 2000, children under 18 who are lawful permanent residents and live with the parent who naturalizes automatically acquire U.S. citizenship at the moment the parent takes the oath. For children over 18, they must initiate their own independent naturalization process.
Your situation has a solution.
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