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Citizenship and Naturalization Lawyers

For many of our clients, becoming a United States citizen through naturalization is the ultimate achievement of their American dream. But the process can be challenging, with numerous requirements and potential obstacles along the way.

At Gardner & Mendoza, P.C. Immigration Law, our citizenship and naturalization lawyers take the guesswork out of the process, providing clear guidance and personalized legal strategies to help you achieve your goal of U.S. citizenship smoothly and confidently.

Naturalization Eligibility and Requirements

To be eligible for naturalization and become a U.S. citizen, you must generally meet the following requirements:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Be a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for a certain period of time (typically 5 years, or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen)
  • Have continuous residence in the U.S. as a permanent resident for a certain period of time
  • Be physically present in the U.S. for a certain period of time
  • Have good moral character and a clean criminal record
  • Demonstrate proficiency in English and knowledge of U.S. history and government
  • Take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States

Our citizenship and naturalization lawyers can help you assess your eligibility and identify any potential issues or challenges that may arise in your case.

The Naturalization Process

The naturalization process typically involves several key steps:

  1. Eligibility Assessment: Our attorneys will review your case to determine your eligibility for naturalization and identify any potential challenges or red flags.
  2. N-400 Application: We will complete and file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, along with supporting documents and evidence.
  3. Biometrics: You’ll attend a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints, photos, and a signature for background checks.
  4. Interview and Exam: You’ll attend an in-person interview with a USCIS officer, where you’ll demonstrate your proficiency in English and knowledge of U.S. history and government through a civics exam. As part of our service, we will accompany you to the interview and exam.
  5. Oath of Allegiance: If your application is approved, you’ll take the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony, typically a couple of months after the interview, and officially become a U.S. citizen!

Throughout the process, our citizenship and naturalization lawyers will provide knowledgeable guidance, meticulous document preparation, and strong advocacy to help you achieve your goals.

Special Considerations in Naturalization Cases

While the naturalization process can be straightforward for some permanent residents, others may face special challenges or complications that require additional legal strategies and advocacy.

Some common issues that may arise in naturalization cases include:

  • Criminal History: If you have a criminal record, even for minor offenses, it could potentially impact your eligibility for naturalization or require additional documentation and evidence of good moral character.
  • Extensive Absences from the U.S.: If you’ve spent significant time outside of the U.S. as a permanent resident, it could impact your eligibility for naturalization or require additional evidence of continuous residence and physical presence.
  • Failure to Register for Selective Service: If you’re a male permanent resident who failed to register for Selective Service between the ages of 18 and 26, it could impact your eligibility for naturalization and require additional documentation and evidence.
  • Disability Waivers: If you have a physical or developmental disability or mental impairment that prevents you from fulfilling the English and civics requirements for naturalization, you may be eligible for a waiver or accommodation.

Our citizenship and naturalization lawyers have the knowledge and experience to help you navigate these and other challenges that may arise in your case, and develop effective strategies to overcome obstacles and achieve your goals.

Why Choose Gardner & Mendoza for Your Naturalization Case?

When you partner with Gardner & Mendoza for your citizenship and naturalization case, you benefit from:

  • Extensive Experience: Our attorneys have decades of combined experience handling a wide range of naturalization matters, from the most straightforward to the most complex.
  • Personalized Strategies: We take the time to understand your unique situation, goals, and challenges, and craft tailored strategies that fit your specific needs.
  • Proactive Guidance: We stay on top of the latest changes in immigration law and policy, and provide proactive advice to help you navigate the ever-shifting landscape of naturalization requirements and procedures.
  • Tireless Advocacy: We’re passionate about helping our clients achieve their dreams of becoming U.S. citizens, and we’ll work tirelessly to advocate for your interests every step of the way.
  • Multilingual Services: Our team can assist clients in English, Spanish, and Tagalog, and we welcome all language interpreters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements for citizenship through naturalization?

To be eligible for citizenship through naturalization, you must:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Be a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for a certain period of time (typically 5 years, or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen)
  • Have continuous residence in the U.S. and physical presence for a certain period of time
  • Be able to read, write, and speak basic English
  • Have knowledge of U.S. history and government
  • Be a person of good moral character
  • Take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States

How long does the naturalization process take?

The processing time for naturalization varies depending on the USCIS field office handling your case and their workload. On average, it takes about 6 to 15 months from the time you file your N-400 application to when you take the Oath of Allegiance and become a U.S. citizen. However, some cases may take longer if there are issues with your application or background.

What happens at the naturalization interview?

At the naturalization interview, a USCIS officer will review your N-400 application and ask you questions about your background, residence, and eligibility for citizenship. You’ll also take the English and civics tests unless you qualify for an exemption based on age or disability. The officer may ask for additional documents or information and will provide you with a decision on your case or inform you of the next steps.

What if I fail the English or civics test?

If you fail the English or civics test at your naturalization interview, you’ll be given one more opportunity to retake the test within 60 to 90 days. If you fail a second time, your N-400 will be denied, and you’ll have to reapply for naturalization and pay the fees again. However, some applicants may qualify for an exemption or waiver of the English or civics requirements based on age, disability, or long-term residence in the U.S.

How can a citizenship and naturalization lawyer help me?

A citizenship and naturalization lawyer can provide valuable assistance throughout the naturalization process, including:

  • Assessing your eligibility for naturalization and identifying any potential red flags
  • Preparing and filing your N-400 application and supporting documents
  • Helping you study for the English and civics tests
  • Representing you at the naturalization interview and advocating for your case
  • Appealing a denial or reapplying for naturalization if needed
  • Providing guidance on your rights and responsibilities as a U.S. citizen

Take the First Step Toward U.S. Citizenship with Confidence

If you’re ready to take the next step on your path to U.S. citizenship through naturalization, we invite you to contact our office to schedule a confidential consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.

During your consultation, we’ll take the time to listen to your story, answer your questions, and provide an honest assessment of your case. We’ll also discuss our fees and services in a transparent manner, so you can make an informed decision about how to proceed.

Don’t take on the naturalization process alone. Let the dedicated lawyers at Gardner & Mendoza be your guides and advocates on the path to achieving your American dream. Contact us today to get started.

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Testimonials

Well, hard to believe… job done! I’m frank to admit I had no idea that it would be so involved compared to 10 years ago when I did the renewal myself. Happily I was fortunate enough to find the best people to help get it done this time. When I was a working stiff it was mostly as a field guy in sales & marketing. High tech communication in those days was a pay phone in customers’ lobbies, so someone back in the office skilled in dealing w/problems was absolutely essential when I couldn’t be contacted. Most of those who supported me that way were good at what they did, some were outstanding. None were better than you!! This tedious & sometimes worrisome process would have been unbearable without your keeping it, & me, on track. So we want to extend our thanks to you and Radlyn. Hoping for Gardner & Mendoza to continue the good work for many years to come. - Anonymous
Gardner and Mendoza Law Firm is a great law firm no matter what kind of situation you may be in! For example I had court today, John Gardner, my attorney represented me today and got the charged dismissed totally the first time we both appeared in front of the judge in Virginia Beach Traffic Court. He uses every bit of knowledge he can to help you get the best results!! He also works very well with Latinos! They have a Spanish speaking person in their office at all times!! - Sebastian
My husband and I had a great experience with Mrs. Mendoza. She provided excellent information and a sense of urgency with every step of our immigration process. Her team was always supportive in getting us the information we needed throughout the whole process. This legal firm also treats their clients with the highest levels of respect. In all of Virginia I would say that the Gardener & Mendoza team is the best recommendation for same sex immigration cases and for immigration cases in general. It was a pleasure to work with them. - Anonymous
I Highly Recommend Radlyn Mendoza, An Excellent Immigration Lawyer. My wife and I were very worried about my wife’s immigration and legal status. We were quite impressed with Attorney Mendoza during our initial consultation. She proved to be a smart, knowledgeable, and very capable immigration attorney. She and her staff were very helpful and responsive to all of our requests. Kudos to her and staff, especially Leesa, for successfully handling our case. Thanks for a job well done. - Thomas and Cheong W.
My daughter received a reckless driving ticket going 60 in a 35 mph zone, so understandably, I was very concerned. In court, Mr. Gardner was able to get the reckless driving charge and ticket completely dismissed due to his knowledge of what the police officer had to present in court. Mr. Gardner was a familiar face to the judge and the clerks in the Virginia Beach courthouse. When we contacted John Gardner’s office at Gardner & Mendoza, he and his staff made us feel comfortable by explaining the whole process to us. His track record and the reviews online helped make the decision to choose Mr. Gardner over other attorneys easy. I highly recommend Mr. Gardner. He gave us peace of mind and won the case too! - Michelle

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Gardner & Mendoza, P.C.
909 First Colonial Rd., Suite 100
Virginia Beach, VA 23454
  • 757-464-9224
  • 757-561-0999
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Our main law office is conveniently located in the Hilltop section of Virginia Beach, near Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital and Oceana Naval Base.

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