Determining the length of the process for you to become a permanent U.S. citizen depends on a number of factors. A quick search might produce results saying it takes anywhere from 7 months to 18 months to as long as 24 months… These numbers are just the timeline for after you’ve applied. For immigrants from Canada and Mexico, the median wait time to become a resident was 10.4 years in 2023. Other nationalities had shorter wait times but were still waiting years for naturalization.
The journey to U.S. citizenship is unique for everyone and often shaped by a combination of legal requirements, personal circumstances, and unpredictable delays.
The Naturalization Journey Starts Before Your Application
Achieving U.S. citizenship begins long before filing Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. For most applicants, the process starts with obtaining a green card, a critical milestone that establishes lawful permanent residency.
To apply for naturalization, green card holders must meet specific residency requirements. This includes holding a green card for at least five years—or three years if married to a legal U.S. citizen. These years are more than just a waiting period; they involve meeting continuous residence and physical presence requirements. Applicants must demonstrate that they’ve lived in the United States for the majority of this time and maintained ties to the country at all times.
Beyond meeting the green card timeline, individuals must also prepare for the responsibilities of citizenship. This includes gathering documents, understanding eligibility criteria, and ensuring compliance with U.S. laws. These steps lay the groundwork for a successful and smooth naturalization application. Don’t underestimate how often immigrants get caught up in delays due to poor preparation during this time.
Understanding Naturalization Timelines and Processes
The naturalization process itself involves multiple stages, each with its own timeline. Submitting Form N-400 is the first formalized step, requiring applicants to provide detailed personal information and meet all eligibility requirements.
Once submitted, processing times can vary widely depending on the applicant’s location, case specifics, and overall demand at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) field office handling the application. You can check processing times near you on the USCIS website, but at the time of this publication, the processing time after filing N-400 at the field office in Norfolk, Virginia, was 8.5 months.
Once you file N-400, a biometrics appointment usually follows within a few months. During this step, applicants provide fingerprints, photographs, and signatures for background checks. This critical stage helps USCIS confirm the applicant’s identity and eligibility.
The naturalization interview is the most critical step. Applicants must demonstrate their knowledge of U.S. history and government in a civics test and prove their ability to read, write, and speak English. Successfully completing the interview is a major part of the process, and then it’s a matter of waiting for your Oath of Allegiance ceremony.
Legal Support on Your Path to Becoming a U.S. Citizen
Naturalization is the end of a long journey, and we’re ready to be a part of it. At Boykin Law Firm, we help immigrants from all walks of life through an often turbulent immigration and naturalization journey.
As Washington, D.C.-area immigration attorneys, we provide dedicated and personalized assistance to individuals pursuing U.S. citizenship and assist with other immigration-related services. Contact us today to take the first step toward achieving your American dream with confidence and peace of mind.