Applying for U.S. Citizenship after a Marriage Green Card

Being a U.S. citizen comes with many benefits like having the ability to bring some family members to the U.S. with rights to vote, and even to hold a U.S. passport.

You might be curious about when you’ll be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization.

The United States citizen spouse can apply for Naturalization 3 years after receiving your marriage green card!
Therefore, as long as you meet the following requirements, you can begin the Naturalization process 3 months before your 3 year green card anniversary.

Meet Eligibility Requirements:

• To be eligible for U.S. citizenship through marriage to a U.S. citizen and holding a green card, you must generally meet the following requirements:
  • You must be at least 18 years old.
  • The legal residing spouse must have been living in a marital union with his or her citizen spouse for at least 3 years immediately before filing the naturalization.
  • You need to be in the U.S. for the required residency period and avoid trips outside the U.S. lasting six months or more during the three-year wait.
  • From the time you obtain your green card until the time you apply for citizenship, you must have continuous residence in the United States.
  • It would be best if you were of good moral character.
  • In addition, you must pass a two-part English language and U.S. civics test. That is unless you qualify for an exemption due to age or a medical condition.

If you divorce your U.S. spouse before three years, you no longer qualify for the three-year rule. Instead, you must apply under the five-year rule. Despite seeming like a setback, it still offers a pathway to citizenship even after the marriage ends.

 

How to Apply for US Citizenship

• • Prepare Your Application: (ONE)
  • The first step to becoming a U.S. citizen is to complete Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, and pay the filing fee.
  • Gather supporting documents, such as copies of your green card, marriage certificate, tax returns, and any evidence of good moral character.
  • Submit Your Application:
  • Mail your completed Form N-400 along with the required documents and the appropriate filing fee to the USCIS lockbox facility.
  • You may also submit your application and file online by creating an online account with USCIS.
  • You can learn more about USCIS forms Here.

• Biometrics Appointment: (TWO)

  • After USCIS gets your application. You’ll have a biometrics appointment for fingerprinting, photos, and a signature for background checks.

• Citizenship Interview and Examination: (THREE)

  • Your citizenship interview will be scheduled some months after the application and biometrics. The interview usually takes place at the nearest USCIS office.
  • During the interview, a USCIS officer will verify that all of the information on your naturalization application is correct.
  • Next, you will be tested on your English language skills and knowledge of U.S. civics (U.S. history and basic information about how the U.S. government works).
  • Be prepared to answer questions about your application and provide any additional documentation.

• If your Application is Not Approved:

  • If your application is not approved, USCIS will send you a denial letter explaining why. However, you may appeal their decision within 30 days of receiving the letter or reapply.

• If your Application is Approved: Take the Oath of Allegiance: (FOUR)

  • If your application is approved and you pass the interview and examination, you will be scheduled for a naturalization ceremony.
  • After USCIS receives your application, you’ll be scheduled for a biometrics appointment for fingerprinting, photos, and a signature for background checks.

• Receive Your Certificate of Naturalization:

  • After taking the oath, you will receive a Certificate of Naturalization as proof of your U.S. citizenship.

The process of becoming a U.S. citizen can be complex, and requirements may change. Check the USCIS website [here] or consult one of our immigration attorneys [here] for expert guidance on applying for U.S. citizenship.