Naturalization Lawyer in Chicago — Path to U.S. Citizenship
Naturalization is the legal process through which a permanent resident becomes a U.S. citizen. At Liberum Law, our naturalization lawyers in Chicago provide comprehensive representation through every stage of the naturalization process, ensuring that your application is accurate, complete, and submitted at the right time.
The naturalization process involves determining eligibility based on residency, physical presence, and good moral character requirements, completing and filing Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) with USCIS, attending a biometrics appointment for fingerprinting, completing the naturalization interview including English and civics testing, and taking the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony.
Special naturalization provisions may apply to military service members and veterans, spouses of U.S. citizens working abroad, and individuals who qualify for expedited processing. Our attorneys assess whether any special provisions apply to your case.
Contact our naturalization lawyers at Liberum Law for a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the naturalization process?
Typically 8–14 months from filing Form N-400 to the Oath ceremony. Variations exist by USCIS field office workload and case complexity. Premium processing is not available for naturalization.
What is the residency requirement?
5 years as a lawful permanent resident (3 years if continuously married to a U.S. citizen who has been a citizen for the entire 3-year period). You must also maintain continuous residence and physical presence (50%+ of the qualifying period) during this time.
What is "good moral character"?
A statutory requirement evaluated over the 5-year (or 3-year) qualifying period. Certain criminal convictions, false statements to USCIS, fraud, willful failure to pay taxes, or failure to register for Selective Service (men) can disqualify. We screen for moral character issues before filing.
What if I have a criminal record?
Some convictions permanently bar naturalization (murder, aggravated felonies). Many crimes only delay it — you may need to wait until they fall outside the qualifying period or seek waivers. Never file N-400 with unresolved criminal issues without legal review first.
Can naturalization be denied?
Yes. Common denial reasons: insufficient residence/physical presence, lack of good moral character, failure to pass English or civics tests, false statements, criminal issues, or unpaid taxes. A denial is not the end — you can re-apply once the issue is resolved, and some denials can be appealed.
