Becoming a U.S. Citizen in New York: Eligibility and Requirements

If you’ve lived in New York City for a while and are considering becoming a bonafide U.S. citizen , the process might be easier than you think.  Whether you’re an immigrant working or residing in the country with a temporary visa, outside the country, and seeking to enter, or already a permanent resident, there are different pathways to becoming a U.S. citizen in New York. 

The process can be quite challenging and complex. Still, with the help of an experienced and detail-oriented immigration lawyer in New York, the burden can be reduced and you’ll be relieved that the best hands are handling one of the important decisions of your life. Read on to see if you’re eligible for citizenship and the requirements for naturalization here in NYC. 

Eligibility and Requirement for Becoming a U.S. Citizen

There are two primary ways to obtain citizenship in the U.S. One is by birth, and the other by naturalization. Individuals born within the United States are generally eligible for automatic citizenship, regardless of the immigration and citizenship status of the parents. This is what qualifies as citizenship by birth. 

However, if the child is born to American parents outside the U.S., they may need to undergo a few steps before citizenship is awarded. On the other hand, individuals born outside the country to non-citizen parents and immigrants who have settled in the U.S. and are seeking to become citizens must go through the process of naturalization.

Eligibility for Becoming a U.S. Citizen

To apply for U.S. citizenship here in New York, the applicant must meet the following criteria to be eligible:

  • Must be 18 years or older on the date of filing for citizenship by naturalization.
  • You must be considered a legal permanent resident for at least 5 years before you can be eligible for naturalization.
  • Must have continued to live in the U.S. as a legal permanent resident (LPR) for a minimum of 5 years before the date the application is filed and till when citizenship is granted.
  • Must have lived in the state at the specified place of residence for at least 3 months before the application is filed.
  • Must have maintained physical presence in the United States for a minimum of 30 months in the 5 years of LPR and before the date of applying.
  • Must be able to understand, speak, read, and write in English.
  • Must hold the principles of the United States Constitution in high regard and be devoted to the order, peace, and happiness of the country and its citizens.
  • Must know about the history of the United States and how the government works.
  • You must demonstrate good moral character during the five years of residency and before the date you apply for citizenship and all through the period after signing the Oath of Allegiance.

Requirements for Becoming a U.S. Citizen

There are certain essential information and documents that are required to begin citizenship by naturalization process. They include:

  • A completed application for Naturalization Form N-400.
  • Two passport photographs.
  • A copy of your green card.
  • Filing fees consist of $760 if you’re filing by paper and $710 if you’re filing online. You may be required to pay for biometrics if you’re 75.

Once the USCIS processes your application, you’ll be contacted for an appointment to get your fingerprints, and also submit other documents as deemed fit to complete your application. Afterward, you’ll be scheduled for an interview with a Citizen and Immigration Services officer who will administer the Naturalization Test and ask questions regarding your application. If you meet all requirements and pass the application process, you’ll take the Oath of Citizenship, qualifying you as an official citizen of the United States of America.

Do It With the Best Immigration Lawyer in NY

At Zavala, our immigration attorneys have decades of combined and proven experience in helping immigrants succeed in becoming U.S. citizens. We have the skills and resources to ensure your process is seamless and check all federal guidelines required for a successful application.

We are committed to bringing you the best results as you apply for citizenship in New York. Book a free consultation with us today and let’s work hand-in-hand to ensure your application is a success.