Becoming a U.S. citizen is a changing achievement, offering new rights, responsibilities, and Opportunities. The journey to us citizenship can feel overwhelming in a city known for its vibrant immigrant. This comprehensive guide breaks down the process, highlights common pitfalls, and explains how working with an experienced attorney like Karan Joshi, founder of Orange Law Firm, can make your path to US Citizenship smoother and extensively secure.
Why US Citizenship Matters
Access to federal jobs and benefits
The right to vote in federal elections
Protection from deportation
Ability to sponsor family members for immigration
Eligibility for a U.S. passport
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
Before starting your application, you must confirm that you meet the requirements for naturalization. The main eligibility criteria include:
Permanent Residency: Hold a green card permanent resident status) for at least five or three years if married to an US citizenship.
Physical Presence: Have been physically present in the U.S. for at least half of the required residency period.
Continuous Residence: Maintain continuous residence in the U.S. for the required period.
Good Moral Character: Demonstrate good moral character, including no serious criminal Offences.
English and Civics Knowledge: Be able to read, write, and speak primary English and have knowledge of US Citizenship history and government.
Age: Be at least 18 years old.
Houston residents must also prove they lived in Texas for at least three months before applying.
Step 2: Prepare Your Application Form 400 : The next step is to complete Form 400, Application for Naturalization. This form requires detailed information about the following:
- Your personal and family history
- Employment and residence history
- Travel outside the U.S.
- Marital status and children
- Criminal background (if any)
Tips for Success:
Gather all supporting documents green card, marriage certificate, tax returns, etc.).
Check for accuracy; mistakes can delay or jeopardize your application.
Consider professional help for accuracy.
Step 3: Submit Your Application and Pay Fees
Submission: File your completed Form 400 online or by mail to the appropriate USCIS addresU.S.
Fees: Pay the required filing fee currently 760 as of 2025; fee waivers are available for those who qualify).
Pro Tip: Keep copies of everything you submit for your records.
Step 4: Attend Your Biometrics Appointment
After USCIS receives your application, you will be scheduled for a biometrics appointment at a local application support center in Houston. Your fingerprints, photograph, and signature will be taken during this appointment for background checks.
Step 5: Prepare for the Interview and Tests
Once your background check is complete, you will receive a notice for your naturalization interview at the Houston USCIS office. At this stage, you will:
Be interviewed by a USCIS officer about your application and background.
Take the English language test reading, writing, and speaking.
Take the civics test U.S. history and government.
Preparation Tips:
Study the official USCIS study materials for the civics test.
Practice English reading and writing skills.
Bring all requested documents to the interview, including your green card and ID.
Step 6: Receive a Decision
After your interview, USCIS may approve, continue, or deny your application:
Step 7: Take the Oath of Allegiance
The final step is attending a naturalization ceremony in Houston, where you’ll take the Oath of Allegiance and officially become an US citizenship. You’ll surrender your green card and receive a Certificate of Naturalization.
Specific Considerations
Processing Times: In Houston, the naturalization process typically takes 5 to 8 months from application to oath ceremony, depending on USCIS workload and your case specifics.
Local Resources: The City Office of New Americans offers workshops and resources for us citizenship applicant U.S.
How Orange Law Helps
Attorney Karan Joshi provides personalized interview preparation, helping clients understand what to expect and how to answer questions confidently.
Orange law can provide you with Expertise, Personalized Guidance & Support at Every Step for enhancing your possibility to receive citizenship.