U.S. Citizenship Frequently Asked Questions
At Green Card Link, our experienced immigration attorneys have guided countless clients through the naturalization process. Below are answers to the most common questions about U.S. citizenship.
Are only native-born Americans eligible for U.S. citizenship?
No. Foreign-born nationals can obtain U.S. citizenship through the naturalization process. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the federal agency responsible for handling naturalization applications.
Do you have to be born in the U.S. to receive birthright citizenship?
No. If you are born abroad to two married U.S. citizen parents, you are automatically granted U.S. citizenship.
If only one parent is a U.S. citizen, citizenship may still be granted if that parent has met specific physical presence requirements in the U.S. prior to your birth. These requirements vary depending on whether you were born before or after November 14, 1986. For children born out of wedlock, eligibility rules are more complex and may require reviewing guidance from the U.S. State Department.
Who is eligible to naturalize as a U.S. citizen?
Most applicants for naturalization are green card holders who have maintained permanent resident status for at least five years—or three years if married to a U.S. citizen. Other eligible groups include:
- Children under 18 with U.S. citizen parents
- Veterans or active U.S. military members
- Spouses of U.S. citizens
Applicants must also:
- Be at least 18 years old (unless applying as a child of a U.S. citizen)
- Demonstrate good moral character
- Meet continuous residence and physical presence requirements
Do I need a lawyer to apply for citizenship?
You are not legally required to hire an attorney to apply for citizenship. USCIS forms, including the N-400 Application for Naturalization, are available online.
However, seeking guidance from immigration attorneys at Green Card Link can help you avoid costly mistakes or denials. Even minor issues, such as traffic citations, can complicate an application. An experienced attorney ensures your case is properly prepared and supported.
Does having a criminal record prevent me from becoming a U.S. citizen?
Not always. A criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but USCIS will closely examine your moral character. Certain crimes, such as aggravated felonies or murder, will permanently bar you from naturalizing.
If you have any criminal history, consult with an immigration attorney at Green Card Link before applying. An attorney may advise waiting a certain number of years after a conviction or help demonstrate rehabilitation.
Can I be deported while applying for citizenship?
Yes. If USCIS finds that you are removable due to criminal activity or immigration violations, they may begin deportation proceedings during your application process. To protect yourself, it is critical to work with an experienced immigration attorney at Green Card Link before filing.
What forms are required to apply for citizenship?
The primary form is the N-400, Application for Naturalization. Applicants must also attend a biometrics appointment and a naturalization interview.
How much does U.S. citizenship cost?
As of now, the filing fee for naturalization is:
- $710 for online filing
- $760 for paper filing
Attorney fees are additional and vary depending on the complexity of your case. At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys provide clear guidance on costs upfront.
How long does it take to get U.S. citizenship?
Processing times vary based on your USCIS field office. Some offices complete applications in as little as three months, while others may take more than a year. You can track your case using the USCIS Processing Times tool once you receive your I-797 receipt notice.
Can I have dual citizenship?
Yes, the U.S. allows dual citizenship. However, your home country’s laws will determine if you may retain your original nationality. It is important to understand both countries’ requirements and obligations before pursuing dual citizenship.
Can my citizenship be revoked?
Yes. This process, called denaturalization, occurs if USCIS discovers fraud during the naturalization process or if you join certain prohibited organizations (such as terrorist groups or totalitarian parties) within five years of naturalization.
What kind of test is required for citizenship?
Applicants must pass an English language test (reading, writing, speaking) and a civics test covering U.S. history and government. You must answer 12 out of 20 civics questions correctly to pass. Study materials are available directly from USCIS.
Are there exemptions to the English or civics test?
Yes. Certain exemptions apply to long-term permanent residents and applicants with qualifying disabilities. For example:
- The 50/20 rule exempts those 50+ years old with 20+ years of residency from the English test.
- The 55/15 rule exempts those 55+ years old with 15+ years of residency from the English test.
- Applicants with medical disabilities may also qualify for exemptions through Form N-648.
What happens if I fail the test?
You are allowed two additional attempts within 60–90 days. You only need to retake the section(s) you failed.
Can I appeal a citizenship denial?
Yes. Roughly 10% of applications are denied, but denials can often be appealed. An immigration attorney at Green Card Link can evaluate your case, file an appeal, or help you reapply with stronger evidence.
How soon after becoming a U.S. citizen can I sponsor family members?
You may begin sponsoring eligible family members immediately after naturalization.
Do I need to stay in the U.S. while waiting for my application?
Yes. Extended absences, especially those over 180 days, can jeopardize your naturalization eligibility.
What if I must leave the U.S. for work while applying for citizenship?
If your work requires you to remain abroad for extended periods, you may file Form N-470 to preserve your continuous residence. This form applies if your employer meets specific categories, such as U.S. government agencies, recognized research institutions, or qualifying American companies.
Do my children automatically become U.S. citizens?
Yes, if they are under 18, live in the U.S., and are lawful permanent residents when you naturalize. Children outside the U.S. may need additional sponsorship steps.
What if I’m applying for citizenship through marriage but get divorced?
You can still apply, but you lose the faster three-year path to naturalization. Divorce also increases USCIS scrutiny to confirm your marriage was genuine.
Are there special provisions for military service?
Yes. Military members with at least one year of honorable service can apply for citizenship without meeting the standard residency requirement.
Can I apply if my green card is expired?
Yes. An expired green card does not eliminate your permanent resident status. However, it is recommended to renew your green card while pursuing naturalization.
Why does USCIS ask about affiliations?
The affiliations section of the N-400 application is used to evaluate moral character. Membership in community organizations, volunteer groups, or nonprofits often supports your application, while ties to extremist or prohibited organizations can harm it.
What documents prove U.S. citizenship?
Common proof includes:
- Birth certificate (if born in the U.S.)
- Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
- Form FS-240 (Report of Birth Abroad)
- Unexpired U.S. passport
How can I check the status of my application?
You can monitor your case using the USCIS Case Status online tool with your receipt number.
How Green Card Link Can Help
At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys provide trusted, personalized guidance throughout the citizenship process. From filing the N-400 to preparing for interviews and appeals, our team helps you avoid pitfalls, protect your status, and achieve your goal of becoming a U.S. citizen.