How Long Does It Take to Become a Naturalized U.S. Citizen?

If you’re an immigrant in the United States who is seeking citizenship, it’s important to understand what’s involved in the process. An experienced NYC immigration lawyer can be invaluable when it comes to navigating the naturalization process, but having a basic understanding of the procedure can be helpful, too. The question has likely crossed your mind if you are pursuing citizenship: How long does it take to become a naturalized U.S. citizen?

4 Steps to Becoming a Naturalized Citizen of the United States

In 2024, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services reported 818,500 new citizens. While slightly lower than previous years, the three-year total of new U.S. citizens is still over 2.6 million people.

Becoming a naturalized citizen of the United States involves detailed steps that must be completed currently. Messing up any part of the process can lead to unnecessary delays. To become a U.S. citizen, you must complete the following steps:

1. Submit your application. To kick everything off, you must submit a Form N-400. The time it takes for the USCIS to process the application can vary from office to office.
2. Attend a biometrics appointment. This process involves collecting your fingerprints, picture, and signature to check your background and confirm your identity.
3. Complete an interview and exam. During your interview, you can expect to be administered a verbal exam that consists of questions about the history of the United States and the fundamentals of the United States government.
4. Take the Oath of Allegiance. Once you receive the decision about your application, you can take your oath and receive your Certificate of Citizenship.

Immigrants who are considered lawful permanent residents can apply to become citizens of the United States as long as they meet certain requirements. In 2022, nearly a million immigrants successfully became citizens. This was up 19 percent from the previous year and 34 percent from the 10-year average between 2010 and 2020.

Today, approximately 14.3 percent of the nation’s residents are foreign-born, and about half of those are naturalized citizens. Another 24 percent are considered lawful permanent residents, 23 percent are unauthorized immigrants, and 4 percent are temporary lawful residents.

Local New York Immigration Lawyers Near You

Our team at Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco, LLP, has been serving immigrants in New York for over 60 years. Throughout this time, we’ve built a stellar reputation, earning the respect of countless past clients and status as one of the “Best Law Firms” in New York City by U.S. News and World Report – Best Lawyers®.

Our skilled attorneys aim to make navigating the naturalization process as simple and straightforward as possible. Financial issues and language barriers are among the top reasons immigrants don’t file for U.S. citizenship.

At PPID, we work with you to navigate around these roadblocks so you can truly begin living the rest of your life. Our team speaks over six languages, including Bulgarian, Chinese, Hindi, Punjabi, Russian, and Spanish, to prevent language barriers between our attorneys and our clients. Moreover, we offer a full suite of legal services and work with our clients to ensure they can receive the support they need.

Armed with over 100 years of combined legal experience, PPID is prepared to handle whatever comes our way. We can evaluate your case, interpret laws, offer legal advice, negotiate alternate options to deportation, and represent you in court so you don’t have to worry about navigating these complex proceedings on your own.

FAQs

Q: What Is the Current Wait Time to Become a Naturalized Citizen of the United States?

A: The time it takes to become a naturalized citizen of the United States can vary depending on the details of your case. The process involves submitting an application, attending a biometrics appointment, participating in an interview and exam, and taking an Oath of Allegiance once you’ve been accepted. You can check case processing times on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.

Q: Do I Have to Work With an Immigration Lawyer to Become a Naturalized U.S. Citizen?

A: You’re not required to work with an immigration lawyer to become a U.S. citizen, but it’s highly recommended that you do. The process itself is simple and straightforward, but successfully navigating each step can be a challenge on your own. An attorney can assess your situation and employ unique legal strategies to help with your case so you have the strongest possible chance of securing a positive outcome.

Q: What Is the 3-3-3 Rule for Naturalization in the United States?

A: The 3-3-3 rule offers an alternate method for married immigrants looking to secure citizenship, and it is applicable to applicants who have been living with their spouses for three years and have been physically present in the United States for 18 months minimum. It’s also pertinent that these applicants demonstrate good moral character and an understanding of the fundamentals of the history and existing government of the United States.

Q: How Can I Speed Up the Process of Becoming a Naturalized U.S. Citizen?

A: There are some steps you can take to speed up the process of becoming a United States citizen. For starters, you can see if you qualify for any expedited pathways. You can also request to expedite your case through the USCIS website.

It’s helpful to have all the information you need organized and ready to go. Be sure to proofread your application to ensure you filled everything out accurately, as this can avoid unnecessary delays, too.

Reach Out to an Immigration Lawyer Near You to Learn More About Becoming a U.S. Citizen Today

The process of becoming a U.S. citizen can be overwhelming and time-consuming, and how long it may take is largely out of your control. However, you can still take this information to help move things along during the naturalization process.

If you’re ready to start the naturalization process, get in touch with a New York immigration lawyer right away. Set up a consultation with Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco, LLP, to discuss your situation and go from there when you’re ready.

About The Author

Conrad E. Pollack

Conrad E. Pollack is the Managing Partner and Director of Immigration at Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco, LLP. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from New York University and earned his J.D. from Brooklyn Law School. With over three decades of experience in immigration law, Conrad has helped countless clients achieve their American Dream. Under his leadership, PPID has expanded significantly, opening new offices in Peekskill and Brooklyn, NY. He is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association and has been recognized for his professional excellence with numerous awards and distinctions. Education: Magna Cum Laude graduate from New York University; J.D. from Brooklyn Law School. Awards: Recipient of numerous professional excellence awards. Memberships: Active member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association.

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