Headman Law Group represents Naturalization & Citizenship clients in Boston — serving the region's universities, hospitals, and biotech. U.S. immigration law is federal, so we guide Boston-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 Naturalization?
Naturalization is the process by which a lawful permanent resident (green-card holder) becomes a U.S. citizen. It is requested through Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, and confirmed at an oath ceremony where the applicant takes the Oath of Allegiance.
Citizenship is not always something you have to apply for. Some children acquire citizenship automatically at birth abroad through a U.S.-citizen parent, and others derive citizenship automatically when a parent naturalizes while the child is a permanent resident under 18. Where that applies, the right document is often a Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-600) rather than an N-400.
U.S. citizenship brings the right to vote, a U.S. passport, protection from deportation, the ability to petition for more family members, eligibility for certain federal jobs, and the security of permanent status. We confirm which path fits your situation before filing.
Naturalization Eligibility Requirements
Most applicants must satisfy each of the requirements below. The five-year residence rule is the default; a three-year rule applies to spouses of U.S. citizens.
Permanent Residence & Time as a Resident
Generally five years as a lawful permanent resident before applying — reduced to three years if you have been married to and living with the same U.S. citizen for that period. You must also be at least 18 years old at filing.
Continuous Residence
You must have continuously resided in the U.S. throughout the qualifying period. Trips abroad of six months or more can disrupt continuous residence, and a year or more generally breaks it absent a preserved exception.
Physical Presence
You must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least half of the qualifying period — roughly 30 months out of five years, or 18 months out of three years.
Good Moral Character
You must show good moral character during the statutory period, which USCIS assesses through your record — including criminal history, tax compliance, and truthfulness on the application.
English & Civics Test
You must demonstrate basic English reading, writing, and speaking ability and pass a civics test on U.S. history and government. Age- and disability-based exemptions and accommodations are available to qualifying applicants.
Attachment to the Constitution
You must show attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution and a willingness to take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States.
How We Help
Naturalization is often straightforward, but prior immigration history, travel, or criminal issues can complicate it. We screen for risk before you file.
- Confirming eligibility under the five-year or three-year rule.
- Screening for good-moral-character and continuous-residence issues.
- Identifying applicants who may already be citizens by acquisition or derivation.
- Preparing and reviewing the N-400 for accuracy.
- Preparing you for the interview and civics test.
- Requesting accommodations or English/civics exemptions where eligible.
The Naturalization Process
From confirming eligibility to taking the oath, most N-400 applicants follow these steps.
Eligibility Check
We review your residence history, travel, tax filings, and any criminal record to confirm you qualify and to flag risks before anything is filed.
File Form N-400
We prepare and submit the Application for Naturalization with supporting documents and the required filing fee.
Biometrics Appointment
USCIS schedules a biometrics appointment to capture fingerprints and run the required background checks.
Interview & Tests
At the interview, a USCIS officer reviews your application and administers the English and civics tests. We prepare you thoroughly for both.
Oath of Allegiance
Once approved, you take the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony and receive your Certificate of Naturalization, completing the process.
Documents for Naturalization
The exact set depends on your history, but most N-400 applicants prepare the following.
Status & Identity
- Permanent Resident Card (green card), front and back
- Valid passport(s) and any travel documents
- State ID or driver's license
- Photographs meeting USCIS specifications (if requested)
Residence & Travel
- Address history for the statutory period
- Record of all trips outside the U.S.
- Federal tax returns or transcripts
Situational
- Marriage certificate and spouse's proof of citizenship (3-year rule)
- Divorce decrees or prior-marriage termination records
- Certified court dispositions for any arrests or citations
- Selective Service registration information (if applicable)
Frequently Asked Questions
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