Citizenship Application (Naturalization)
U.S. Citizenship and Naturalization Services
For an immigration lawyer, helping a client become a U.S. citizen is a deeply rewarding privilege. However, reaching this point requires managing complex legal processes and bureaucratic details. At Gozel Law Firm, we are here to help you overcome the challenges on your path to citizenship.
Your Experienced and Trusted Citizenship Attorney
Citizenship proceedings require strategic planning and expertise. Gozel Law Firm, PC, recognized as one of the leading immigration law firms in the United States, is renowned for its deep experience in this field.
Our firm has a successful track record of helping immigrants realize the American dream. Our expert attorneys provide personalized support at every step of the process, from preparing your application to the interview stage, helping you overcome any obstacles you may encounter.
Our Service Areas and Jurisdiction
We provide citizenship application consulting to our clients throughout the United States, primarily from our offices in Vienna, Virginia, and Clifton, NJ. No matter where you are, your case will be carefully handled by experts.
Your Personalized Immigration Plan
Every immigrant's story is different. If you believe you are eligible for American citizenship, don't risk your situation. In a consultation with our experienced attorneys, we will create the immigration plan that best suits your personal circumstances.
Contact us today to start your citizenship process or to get expert advice on your current application.
What is Naturalization?
Naturalization is the legal process through which an immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen. Immigrants over the age of 18 must successfully complete this process to obtain citizenship rights.
To apply for citizenship, you must meet at least one of the following requirements:
- General Application: You have a U.S. permanent residence permit (Green Card) and have resided in the United States for the past 5 years.
- Asylum Status: You have been granted asylum status and have been living in the United States for 4 years.
- Through Marriage: You are married to a U.S. citizen and have been residing in the country for at least 3 years.
- Military Service: You are a Green Card holder, have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, and have been in the country for 3 years.
If you meet these qualifications, the next step in the process is to prove that you have sufficient knowledge of U.S. history and government (Civics). You must also demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking English.
Our expert immigration and citizenship attorneys are ready to guide you through this entire process.
Frequently Asked Questions
To be eligible for citizenship, you must be at least 18 years old and a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) for a specific period—typically 5 years, or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen. Additionally, you must demonstrate continuous residence, physical presence in the U.S., good moral character, and a basic proficiency in English and U.S. civics.
The process involves four primary stages: Form N-400: Completing and submitting the Application for Naturalization with supporting documents and fees. Biometrics: Attending an appointment for fingerprints and photographs. Interview & Testing: A meeting with a USCIS officer to test your English skills and knowledge of U.S. civics/history. Oath of Allegiance: The final step where you take the oath and officially become a U.S. citizen.
The total cost typically includes the USCIS filing fee for Form N-400 and the biometrics fee. (As of 2024/2025, the standard fee is $710 for online filing or $760 for paper filing, which includes biometrics).
The timeframe varies based on USCIS workload and individual circumstances, but it generally takes between several months to over a year. Working with an experienced attorney can help avoid delays caused by incomplete documentation or requests for additional evidence (RFE).
Once naturalized, you gain the right to vote in federal elections, travel with a U.S. passport, and petition for family members to immigrate. You also gain protection from deportation and access to certain federal jobs and benefits.
At Gozel Law Firm, we provide expert citizenship representation through our leading naturalization attorneys. We offer dedicated support throughout the naturalization application process, ensuring your case is handled with precision across the entire U.S.