Spousal Naturalization (Form N-400)

Application for Form N-400 Naturalization as a Spouse 

Spousal naturalization in the U.S. allows a lawful permanent resident, green card holder, that is married to a U.S. citizen to apply for citizenship after three years of marriage. The N-400 form is the initial request that allows lawful permanent residents to apply for U.S. citizenship through the naturalization process. Naturalization is a process where a foreign national willing becomes a citizen of a new country. Unlike birth-right citizenship, naturalization requires certain residency requirements, language/culture tests, age, and good character. If applicants meet these requirements then they will file their N-400 form with USCIS. 

Spouse Eligibility Requirements

Unlike a general form N-400 naturalization application process. When a foreign national is married to a U.S. citizen, there are specific requirements. 

• Must be at least 18 years of age. 

• Must be a lawful permanent resident, green card holder, for at least 3 years. 

• Married to and living in “marital union” with the same spouse (U.S. citizen) for the entire 3 years. 

• Your U.S. citizen spouse must have been a U.S. citizen during those 3 years.

• Continuous residence in the U.S. for 3 years, and physically present for at least 18 months during that time.

• Demonstrate good moral character 

• Ability to read, write, and speak English 

• Knowledge of U.S. history/government (in preparation for civics exam)  

N-400 Naturalization Filing Process

The following bullet points outline the steps of the naturalization process and what is expected from applicants; 

1. After checking eligibility, file Form N-400 with USCIS either online or through mail. Must file the application for naturalization up to 90 days before the 3 year mark. 

1. Once the application is submitted you will be required to attend a biometric appointment. There your fingerprints and photos will be taken. 

1. You will have an in-person interview with an USCIS officer. The officer will review your application, documents, as well as, administer an english language test and civics exam. The approval of your citizenship application is up to the discretion of the USCIS officer. 

1. Once approved you will take the Oath of Allegiance to become a U.S. citizen. 

Special Circumstances 

If you are a conditional resident, meaning you got your green card based on a marriage less than 2 years old. You will have a conditional residency CR1 and must file form I-751 to remove conditions before or during the naturalization process. This can happen potentially at a joint interview. 

If you are a spouse of a U.S. government employee or military personnel, you may qualify for expeditious naturalization, waving some residency requirements, however, other standards must be met.  

How We Can Help You!

At Blue Lake Law, we have experience guiding clients through the naturalization process through Form N-400. No matter what immigration problems you might be facing, we understand how critical precision and speed are to your case. 

We’ll help you determine your eligibility, gather the required documentation, prepare you for your interview, and prepare your N-400 form, ensuring that your petition is submitted correctly and efficiently. At Blue Lake Law we take pride in clear & effective communication with our clients and U.S. immigration services.

Contact us today to explore whether spousal naturalization is the right choice for you!