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Naturalization
Naturalization
Naturalization is the process by which a lawful permanent resident becomes a United States citizen. Parandian Law represents applicants in N-400 preparation, interview preparation, and representation at USCIS naturalization interviews — including combined N-400 and I-751 interviews where removal of conditions is still pending.
We guide clients through every step of the naturalization process — from confirming eligibility and identifying any potential bars or complications, to preparing a thorough application and walking clients through the civics and English components of the interview.
Naturalization is one of the most significant legal milestones in a person’s life. We treat every naturalization matter with the attention and care it deserves.
N-400 · Civics Test · English Test · Naturalization Interview · Continuous Residence · Physical Presence · Good Moral Character · Combo Interview
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How naturalization works
Naturalization — the essentials
To qualify for naturalization a permanent resident must generally meet the following requirements: five years of continuous residence as a lawful permanent resident (three years if married to and living with a U.S. citizen), physical presence for at least half of the required period, continuous residence in the state or district where the application is filed for at least three months, good moral character, basic English proficiency, and knowledge of U.S. history and civics.
The naturalization process begins with filing Form N-400 with USCIS. After filing USCIS schedules a biometrics appointment and then a naturalization interview where the applicant is tested on English and civics and the N-400 application is reviewed. If approved the applicant takes the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony, either on the same day or at a subsequent ceremony.
Key FACTS
Standard residence:
5 years as LPR
Spousal residence:
I-130 + adjustment or consular
Physical presence:
50% of required period
State residence:
3 months minimum
Civics test (filed before 10/20/25):
10 questions — must get 6 correct
Civics test (filed on/after 10/20/25):
20 questions from 128 — must get 12 correct
65/20 special consideration:
10 questions from 20 — must answer 6
Interview required:
Yes
Good moral character:
Required
What we handle
Naturalization services
N-400 preparation and naturalization interview representation for permanent residents pursuing U.S. citizenship.
N-400 preparation
Complete N-400 application preparation, including eligibility analysis, application drafting, supporting document compilation, and review of any potential good moral character issues before filing.
Naturalization interview preparation
Thorough interview preparation covering the civics test, English components, and the substantive N-400 questions, including review of travel history, tax compliance, prior arrests, and other areas of USCIS scrutiny.
Combined N-400 / I-751 interviews
Representation at combined naturalization and removal of conditions interviews, where USCIS adjudicates both the I-751 petition and the N-400 application at the same appointment. These interviews require preparation for both matters simultaneously.
Complex naturalization matters
Representation in naturalization cases involving prior arrests, criminal history, tax issues, extended absences, or other good moral character concerns — including assessment of whether these issues bar naturalization or can be addressed.
How it works
Our naturalization process
01
Eligibility review
We confirm eligibility, including continuous residence, physical presence, state residency, and good moral character, and identify any issues that could complicate the application before filing.
02
N-400 preparation
We prepare the complete N-400 application, gather supporting documents, and review every question carefully — paying particular attention to travel history, tax compliance, and any prior legal issues.
03
Interview preparation
We conduct thorough interview preparation, including civics test practice, English component review, and a detailed walkthrough of the N-400 questions likely to be asked at the interview.
04
Interview & oath
We attend the USCIS naturalization interview with the client. Upon approval the client takes the Oath of Allegiance, either at the interview or at a subsequent ceremony.
Common questions
Naturalization FAQ
How long does naturalization take?
Current N-400 processing times vary significantly by USCIS field office. Most applicants can expect 8–18 months from filing to naturalization ceremony under current processing times. Some offices are faster and some are slower. We provide current estimates for the specific field office handling the case at the time of consultation. Filing early (as soon as you become eligible) is strongly recommended given current processing times.
I have a prior arrest on my record, can I still naturalize?
It depends on the nature of the arrest and the disposition. An arrest without conviction is not automatically a bar to naturalization but must be disclosed and explained. Certain convictions, including aggravated felonies and crimes involving moral turpitude, can permanently bar naturalization or trigger removal proceedings if disclosed. We assess the specific criminal history carefully before filing and advise honestly on the risks of proceeding. Filing a naturalization application with undisclosed criminal history is extremely risky and should never be done without counsel.
I have taken extended trips outside the U.S., does this affect my eligibility?
Yes, extended absences can disrupt the continuous residence requirement and affect physical presence calculations. A single absence of more than six months but less than one year creates a presumption of broken continuous residence that can be rebutted with evidence. An absence of one year or more generally breaks continuous residence and resets the clock. Physical presence is calculated separately, and you must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least half of the required residence period. We calculate your physical presence and continuous residence carefully before advising on eligibility.
What is the civics test and how do I prepare?
The civics test format depends on when you filed your N-400. For applications filed before October 20, 2025 the officer asks up to 10 questions from a pool of 100 and you must answer 6 correctly. For applications filed on or after October 20, 2025 the officer asks up to 20 questions from a pool of 128 and you must answer 12 correctly. Applicants who are 65 or older and have been LPRs for 20 or more years receive special consideration, will receive 10 questions from a designated list of 20, and may take the test in their native language.
Are there exemptions from the English language requirement?
Yes, two age-based exemptions apply. The 50/20 exception exempts applicants who are 50 or older at the time of filing and have lived as a lawful permanent resident for at least 20 years. The 55/15 exception exempts applicants who are 55 or older at the time of filing and have lived as a lawful permanent resident for at least 15 years. Applicants who qualify for either exception must still take the civics test but may take it in their native language with an interpreter present at the interview. Additionally applicants who cannot meet the English and civics requirements due to a medical disability may be exempt from the English requirement, the civics requirement, or both, by filing Form N-648 completed by a licensed medical professional.
Ready to become a U.S. citizen?
Naturalization is one of the most important legal steps you will take. Speak with an attorney before filing your N-400.
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