Headman Law Group represents N-400 Naturalization clients in New York — for finance, media, academia, and the arts. U.S. immigration law is federal, so we guide New York-area clients through the same proven process we use nationwide — most steps handled by video and secure document exchange, with no need to visit an office.
What Is N-400 Naturalization?
Naturalization is the process by which a lawful permanent resident (green-card holder) becomes a United States citizen. The application is filed on Form N-400, and the process culminates in an interview, English and civics tests, and the Oath of Allegiance.
U.S. citizenship brings the right to vote, a U.S. passport, protection from deportation, eligibility for certain federal jobs and benefits, and the ability to petition for a broader range of family members. For most applicants, naturalization is the final step in a long immigration journey.
Key Benefits of U.S. Citizenship
- The right to vote in federal, state, and local elections.
- A U.S. passport and the ability to travel without status concerns.
- Protection from deportation and removal proceedings.
- Ability to petition for parents, siblings, and married children.
- Eligibility for federal jobs, grants, and certain benefits.
- Automatic citizenship for certain children under 18.
Who Qualifies for Naturalization?
Most applicants qualify after five years as a lawful permanent resident. Those married to and living with a U.S. citizen for the entire period generally qualify after three years. Certain members of the U.S. armed forces may qualify under expedited rules.
Beyond the residence period, applicants must show continuous residence and physical presence, good moral character, the ability to read, write, and speak basic English, and knowledge of U.S. history and government (civics). Some applicants qualify for English or testing accommodations based on age or medical conditions.
Naturalization Eligibility Requirements
The core requirements for the standard N-400 are as follows.
Permanent Resident Status & Age
You must be at least 18 and a lawful permanent resident for the required period — generally five years, or three years if married to a U.S. citizen.
Continuous Residence
You must have continuously resided in the U.S. for the required period, without trips abroad long enough to break continuity.
Physical Presence
You must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least half of the required residence period.
Good Moral Character
You must demonstrate good moral character during the statutory period, with certain offenses creating bars or requiring careful analysis.
English & Civics
You must be able to read, write, and speak basic English and pass a civics test on U.S. history and government, unless an exemption applies.
N-400 Naturalization Process
The naturalization process is a defined sequence from filing to the Oath of Allegiance.
Eligibility Review & Filing
We confirm your residence period, screen for moral-character issues, and prepare and file Form N-400 with supporting documentation.
Biometrics Appointment
USCIS schedules a biometrics appointment to capture your fingerprints, photo, and signature for background checks.
Interview & Tests
You attend an interview where an officer reviews your application and administers the English and civics tests. We prepare you for both.
Oath of Allegiance
Upon approval, you take the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony and receive your Certificate of Naturalization as a U.S. citizen.
Required Documents
The exact set varies by case, but most N-400 filings include the following.
Core Documents
- Copy of the front and back of your green card
- Form N-400 with filing fee
- Current and prior passports showing travel history
- Two passport-style photographs (if filing from abroad)
Residence & Character Evidence
- Travel history records for the statutory period
- Tax returns or transcripts
- Marriage certificate (for the three-year spouse rule)
- Proof of spouse's U.S. citizenship (three-year rule)
- Selective Service registration (if applicable)
If Applicable
- Certified records of any arrests or citations
- Documentation of child support or tax payment plans
- Medical certification for disability accommodations (Form N-648)
Frequently Asked Questions
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