Becoming a U.S. Citizen - A Step by Step approach to the Naturalization Process
Step 1. Determine if you are eligible to become a U.S. citizen.
What to do: You can confirm if you are eligible for a Naturalization by reviewing the naturalization eligibility worksheet to help you decide if you are eligible to apply for naturalization.
Step 2. Answer our questionnaire Application Form N-400.
What to do: Read the instructions to complete our questionnaire and collect the necessary documents to demonstrate your eligibility for naturalization. Do not worry; our office will send you a checklist to make sure you send all the required documents, and we will take care of the form for you
Step 3. Review the Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
What to do: Review and sign the forms that our office prepared for your application.
Step 4. Submit the Form N-400, Application for Naturalization and fees.
What to do: Our office will submit your application and send you a confirmation of your case.
Step 5. Go to the biometrics appointment, if applicable.
What to do: If you need to take biometrics, USCIS will send you an appointment notice that includes your biometrics appointment date, time, and location. Our office will send you instructions so you can arrive at the designated location at the scheduled time. Have your biometrics taken.
Step 6. Prepare and complete the interview.
Once all the preliminary processes on your case are complete, USCIS will schedule an interview with you to complete the naturalization process. You must report to the USCIS office at the date and time on your appointment notice. Please bring the appointment notice with you. If you desire, our Attorney can prepare you and be present on the interview day.
Step 7. Receive a decision from USCIS on your Form N-400, Application for Naturalization.
USCIS will issue you a written notice of decision.
Granted—USCIS may approve your Form N-400 if the evidence in your record establishes that you are eligible for naturalization.
Continued—USCIS may continue your application if you need to provide additional evidence/documentation, fail to provide USCIS the correct documents, or fail the English and/or civics test the first time.
Denied—USCIS will deny your Form N-400 if the evidence in your record establishes you are not eligible for naturalization.
Step 8. Receive a notice to take the Oath of Allegiance.
What to expect: If USCIS approved your Form N-400 in step 7, you may be able to participate in a naturalization ceremony on the same day as your interview. If a same day naturalization ceremony is unavailable, USCIS will mail you a notification with the date, time, and location of your scheduled ceremony.
Step 9. Take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States.
You are not a U.S. citizen until you take the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony.
What to do: Complete the questionnaire on Form N-445, Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony. Report for your naturalization ceremony and check in with USCIS. A USCIS officer will review your responses to Form N-445. Turn in your Permanent Resident Card (Green Card). Take the Oath of Allegiance to become a U.S. citizen. Receive your Certificate of Naturalization, review it, and notify USCIS of any errors you see on your certificate before leaving the ceremony site.
Step 10. Understanding U.S. Citizenship.
Citizenship is the common thread that connects all Americans. Check out this list of some of the most important rights and responsibilities that all citizens—both Americans by birth and by choice—should exercise, honor, and respect.
For more detailed information on the naturalization process, please reach out if you have any immigration related questions or concerns, as we are happy to provide free initial consultations.
About Us
The Law Office of Nicholas J. Mireles is an experienced Los Angeles based on the U.S. Immigration law firm that has been practicing immigration law since 2013. Our background makes us uniquely well suited to help you with any issue relating to your immigration status.
Law Office of Nicholas J. Mireles, APC
411 West 7th St. Ste 310 - Los Angeles, CA 90014
attorney@loonjm.com