Ready to become a U.S. citizen? Attorney Ali Latif helps permanent residents in Columbus navigate the naturalization process, from N-400 filing through the oath ceremony. We speak English, Arabic, and Spanish.
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Naturalization is the process by which a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) becomes a United States citizen. U.S. citizenship provides important rights including the right to vote, the ability to petition for family members, protection from deportation, and eligibility for federal jobs and benefits.
The process involves filing Form N-400, attending a biometrics appointment, passing an English and civics test, and taking the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony. Most applicants must have been permanent residents for at least five years, though spouses of U.S. citizens may be eligible after three years.
Important: Immigration law and USCIS policies are changing rapidly. Eligibility requirements, fees, and processing times are subject to change. Always verify current requirements at uscis.gov or consult with an attorney before filing.
You may be eligible to apply for naturalization if you meet these general requirements. Individual circumstances may vary — consult with an attorney to assess your eligibility.
You must be at least 18, a permanent resident for 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen), have continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S., and demonstrate good moral character.
Submit your Application for Naturalization with USCIS along with required documentation, photos, and filing fee.
Attend a fingerprinting appointment at your local USCIS Application Support Center for background checks.
Attend an in-person interview where a USCIS officer reviews your application, tests your English ability, and administers the civics test (100 possible questions, you must answer 6 of 10 correctly).
The officer may approve, continue (request more evidence), or deny your application. Most decisions are made the same day as the interview.
Attend a naturalization ceremony where you take the Oath of Allegiance and receive your Certificate of Naturalization. You are now a U.S. citizen.
These are USCIS government fees only. Attorney fees are separate and vary by case complexity. Verify current fees at uscis.gov/feecalculator.
N-400 (Online Filing)
Application for Naturalization filed online
N-400 (Paper Filing)
Application for Naturalization filed by mail
Fee Waiver (I-912)
Available if household income is at or below 150% of federal poverty guidelines
Reduced Fee
Available if household income is 150-400% of federal poverty guidelines
Fees current as of early 2026. Biometrics fee is included in the N-400 filing fee. Active-duty military members may qualify for automatic fee waivers.
The naturalization process typically takes 8-14 months from filing Form N-400 to the oath ceremony. Processing times vary by USCIS field office and individual circumstances.
The test has two parts: an English test (reading, writing, and speaking) and a civics test covering U.S. history and government. USCIS provides a study guide with 100 possible civics questions. During the interview, you are asked up to 10 and must answer at least 6 correctly.
Yes, if you are married to a U.S. citizen and have been a permanent resident for at least 3 years while living in marital union with your U.S. citizen spouse. You must also meet other eligibility requirements including continuous residence and physical presence.
The United States generally allows dual citizenship, but this depends on the laws of your home country. Some countries require you to renounce your original citizenship when you become a U.S. citizen. Consult with an attorney to understand how naturalization may affect your status in your home country.
Citizenship and naturalization services available to clients throughout the greater Columbus metro area:
Detailed articles by Attorney Ali Latif on N-400 interview preparation, common pitfalls, and what Columbus applicants should expect.
Latif Law helps Columbus clients prepare for their N-400 citizenship interview. Learn when legal guidance makes a difference for your naturalization case.
Overstaying a visa triggers a 3- or 10-year reentry bar. This 2026 Columbus guide covers unlawful presence rules, penalties, and options that may still remain.
Step-by-step guidance for navigating family-based immigration applications with recent policy updates.
Common pathway to permanent residence — the most frequent prior step before naturalization.
Conditional residents must convert to a 10-year green card before applying for citizenship.
After becoming a U.S. citizen, you may petition for your parents as immediate relatives.
Sponsoring siblings, adult children, or married children once you naturalize.
Received a Request for Evidence on your N-400? Time-sensitive response strategy.
First step in a path that can ultimately lead to U.S. citizenship.
Schedule a consultation to discuss your path to citizenship. We serve Columbus and all of Central Ohio.
Submitting this form does not create an attorney-client relationship. Do not include confidential information in your message. Our intake form is powered by Clio, a secure legal practice management platform. View Clio's privacy policy.
Consultations available in English, Arabic, and Spanish