Citizenship Through Naturalization

Becoming a United States citizen is no easy feat. It is a costly and time-consuming process that offers no guarantees, but for many it is well worth it. If an individual is not a U.S. citizen by birth or descent then they must obtain citizenship through a process known as naturalization. Naturalization is made up of a series of steps and legal processes that one must go through and pass in order to gain United States citizenship. It can be complicated for those unfamiliar with the legal processes of citizenship. With the help of Din Law and our team of talented Chicago immigration lawyers you can get the counsel you need to achieve the best possible outcome.

Here Are The 10 Steps Toward Naturalized Citizenship

1. Assess your current citizenship status.

   Were you born in the United States or one of the territories? Were you born to one or more U.S. citizens? Depending on your answers to those questions you may already be a U.S. citizen. Consult with Chicago immigration lawyers if you are unsure of your eligibility.

2. Determine if you are eligible for citizenship.

   The eligibility requirements are as follows.

   • At least 18 years old
   • Lawfully entered the U.S.
   • Have been permanent resident for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen)
   • Meet all physical presence requirements

3. Complete Form N-400, Application for Naturalization

   • Requires 2 passport style photos
   • Requires supporting documents demonstrating eligibility for citizenship

4. Submit your Form N-400, Application for Naturalization

   • After submission you will receive a receipt notice from USCIS
   • You can check on your application status online or by calling the National Customer Service Center.

5. Attend your biometrics appointment, if applicable.

   • USCIS requires applicants to be fingerprinted for a FBI background check.
   • A background check must be completed before an interview can be scheduled.
   • If you are 75 years old or older you are exempt from the fingerprint requirements but a federal background check must still be conducted.

6. Complete the interview

   • The interview will be scheduled once all preliminary processes are complete.
   • Attending the interview is vital to your naturalization application. Report to the USCIS office at the date and time indicated on your appointment notice.

7. Receive a written notice of decision from USCIS.

   • Granted – Form N-400 has been approved and all eligibility requirements met.
   • Continued – Application has been continued due to need of additional evidence/documentation.
   • Denied – Application is denied due to insufficient evidence of eligibility for naturalization.

8. If granted, you will receive a notice to take the Oath of Allegiance.

   • You will receive a notification giving the date, time, and location of your scheduled ceremony.
   • If your application is denied, consult with Chicago immigration lawyers to determine next steps.

9. Take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States at your scheduled ceremony

   • Complete a questionnaire form
   • Turn in permanent resident card
   • Take the Oath
   • Receive Certificate of Naturalization

10. Congratulations, you’re a citizen!

Naturalization is a multi-step process that unfortunately has a lot of opportunity for denial. If you are pursuing naturalized citizenship or need legal counsel on an immigration or citizenship issue, call the Chicago immigration lawyers at Din Law today. We are dedicated to aggressively and creatively pursuing the best possible outcome for our client’s cases. Schedule a case evaluation with us and get the support you need!