Immigration Lawyers for U.S. Citizenship (Form N-400)
Taking the step toward a U.S. citizenship application (Form N-400) is one of the most meaningful moments in your immigration journey. It represents the promise of belonging, security, and a stable future for you and your family in the United States.
If you dream of becoming a U.S. citizen, this is the path.
At The Law Firm of Moumita Rahman, we understand how important this process is, and we’re here to ensure your application is prepared and filed with the utmost accuracy and care. Contact us today for a case evaluation and take the first step toward your citizenship.
What is Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization)?
Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, is the official form that most lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) must file to apply for U.S. citizenship.
Naturalization is the process by which a citizen of another country voluntarily becomes a citizen of the United States.
Filing Form N-400 is the first formal step to demonstrate your eligibility and your intent to become a full member of American society, with all the rights and responsibilities that entails. An immigration attorney experienced with Form N-400 can explain that this application gathers detailed information about your personal history, residence, good moral character, and allegiance to the United States.
Who is eligible to file Form N-400?
Not all lawful permanent residents can apply for citizenship immediately. Eligibility for the N-400 application for naturalization generally requires meeting at least one of the criteria established by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). To choose the right path, it is important to work with a naturalization (N-400) attorney who can evaluate your specific situation.
- At least 18 years of age
- Lawful permanent resident for at least five continuous years
- Ability to demonstrate continuous residence and physical presence in the United States
- At least 30 months of physical presence within those five years
- Residence of at least three months in the USCIS state or district where you apply
- At least 18 years of age
- Lawful permanent resident for at least three continuous years
- Married to and living with the same U.S. citizen spouse for those three years
- Your spouse has been a U.S. citizen for that entire period
- Ability to demonstrate continuous residence and physical presence (at least 18 months of physical presence in the last three years)
There are specific eligibility pathways for members of the U.S. Armed Forces and for veterans.
Some children of U.S. citizens, certain U.S. government employees serving abroad, and other limited categories may qualify.
Every case is unique. The attorneys at The Law Firm of Moumita Rahman can review your circumstances, confirm your eligibility, and ensure you meet all requirements before filing your N-400 application.
LEARN MORE & GET IN TOUCH
We invite you to explore our site to learn about the specific services we offer and read success stories from people just like you. If you’re considering legal help for your immigration matter, reach out to us. Even if you’re not sure you have a case, we’re happy to evaluate your situation and discuss your options. At The Law Firm of Moumita Rahman, your hopes and concerns become ours – and we won’t rest until we’ve done everything possible to help you “belong in the country you helped build.” Ready to take the next step? Contact us for a case evaluation, and let’s work together toward your freedom and peace of mind.
What do I need to file the N-400 application for naturalization?
Gathering the right documentation is crucial to the success of your application. Below is a detailed checklist of common documents you’ll need for your N-400 application.
- Front-and-back photocopy of your Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- Two recent passport-style photos (only if filing by mail)
- Copy of your birth certificate (with a certified English translation if it is not in English)
- USCIS filing fee payment or a fee waiver request
If applying based on marriage:
- Copy of your marriage certificate
- Proof of your spouse’s U.S. citizenship (naturalization certificate or U.S. birth certificate)
- Evidence your marriage is bona fide (joint tax returns, joint bank accounts, joint lease/mortgage, family photos)
If you have been divorced:
- Copy of the final divorce decree
If you have children:
- Copies of the birth certificates for all your children
- Federal tax returns or transcripts for the last five years (or three years if applying based on marriage to a U.S. citizen)
- Bank statements, pay stubs, or employment records
- A detailed list of all trips outside the United States during the eligibility period, including exact departure and return dates (your passports are helpful here)
- A complete list of all addresses and employers for the last five years (or three years)
- Documentation for any citations, arrests, detentions, or convictions—even if dismissed, sealed, or expunged
- This includes traffic offenses with fines over $500; full transparency is essential
An attorney experienced in preparing Form N-400 can create a personalized checklist and make sure nothing is missing. The attorneys at The Law Firm of Moumita Rahman can guide you through each step of the N-400 application.
What is the citizenship application process?
The path from filing Form N-400 to taking the Oath of Allegiance follows several steps. Understanding each stage—ideally with guidance from a citizenship (N-400) attorney—can help you feel prepared and confident.
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1. Preparation and filing
Complete and submit Form N-400 with all required supporting documents to USCIS. A careful legal review at this stage helps prevent errors that cause delays. -
2. Receipt notice
USCIS issues a receipt notice (Form I-797C) after processing your payment and accepting your application. -
3. Biometrics appointment
USCIS schedules you at an Application Support Center to take fingerprints, a photo, and your signature. These are used to verify identity and run background checks. -
4. Interview and exams
You attend a naturalization interview at a USCIS office. During this appointment:
- Civics: You must correctly answer 6 out of up to 10 questions about U.S. history and government.
- English: You demonstrate basic ability to speak during the interview, read one sentence in English, and write one sentence in English.
- Application review: The officer goes through your N-400 answers to confirm accuracy and truthfulness.
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5. Decision
The officer may approve, continue, or deny your case. “Continue” usually means USCIS needs more evidence or you must retake part of a test. -
6. Oath of Allegiance (naturalization ceremony)
If approved, you receive a notice for your ceremony. At the event, you take the Oath of Allegiance and receive your Certificate of Naturalization.
An experienced naturalization attorney can guide you through every step—from preparing your N-400 to your interview and ceremony. The attorneys at The Law Firm of Moumita Rahman are ready to help.
How does an attorney prepare you for the citizenship test and interview?
The interview can be intimidating, but with the right preparation you can face it confidently. An attorney for the citizenship exam helps you prepare in the following ways:
- Reading and writing practice: you are provided with the official materials and vocabulary that USCIS uses on the test.
- Civics exam: you are given access to the full list of 100 possible questions and study techniques to memorize the correct answers. You can practice with mock exams.
- Comprehensive review of your N-400: you should go over each of your answers so you are familiar with them and can respond with confidence and consistency.
- Mock interviews: practice sessions where you are asked the questions a USCIS officer might ask in English. This significantly reduces nerves on the actual day.
- Guidance on conduct and documentation: you receive advice on how to dress, how to address the officer, and which original documents to bring with you.
Common Form N-400 mistakes an attorney can help you avoid
During the naturalization process, it’s possible to avoid common errors that occur when filing the N-400 application for naturalization.
These missteps can have serious consequences, including delays, Requests for Evidence (RFEs), or even denial of the application. Having a citizenship (N-400) attorney by your side is an investment in your future and peace of mind.
Frequent errors we see:
- Omission of travel: failing to list all international trips, no matter how brief.
- Undisclosed criminal history: not reporting detentions, arrests, or citations because you believe they are “minor” or “don’t count.”
- Miscalculated residence periods: providing incorrect calculations for physical presence and continuous residence.
- Inconsistent employment information: being unable to reconcile employment dates with your personal history.
- Simple filing mistakes: signing in the wrong place, leaving questions blank, or making typographical errors in dates and names.
An attorney reviewing your N-400 ensures your application is complete, consistent, and supported by the correct evidence.
What is the purpose of working with a citizenship (N-400) attorney?
More than just a document preparer, a U.S. citizenship attorney is your advocate and guide. These are the reasons why having an immigration attorney for citizenship (N-400) makes a real difference.
An experienced naturalization attorney ensures:
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Deep eligibility assessment
Your history is reviewed in detail before filing, and potential issues you may have overlooked are identified. -
Handling complex cases
If you have a criminal record, prolonged periods outside the United States, gaps in residence, or multiple prior citizenship applications denied, an experienced attorney is essential to build a strong strategy. -
Communication with USCIS
The attorney manages all formal communications with USCIS on your behalf and handles any requests or notices. -
Representation at the interview (when appropriate)
In certain situations, an attorney can formally represent you during your interview and ensure your rights are protected. -
Peace of mind
Knowing a professional is managing your case reduces stress and anxiety, allowing you to focus on your preparation and daily life.
How The Law Firm of Moumita Rahman can help
At The Law Firm of Moumita Rahman, our core values guide every case we handle—including your citizenship application.
We put your interests first: we understand the anxiety this process can create. We fight for your peace of mind, guiding you with determination and respect so you can focus on the excitement of becoming a citizen, not the stress of paperwork.
Excellence: we empower our clients through meticulous, high-quality legal work. Our integrity is the foundation of our success, and we are committed to submitting a flawless application that maximizes your chances of approval.
Empathy: we understand from experience the challenges you face. Our mission is to help you obtain this crucial immigration relief and the opportunity to live safely and happily with your loved ones. We work tirelessly for the justice you deserve.
Frequently asked questions about Form N-400
It’s essential to correct any error as soon as possible. Submitting incorrect information or leaving out details can be considered immigration fraud. An attorney for N-400 can help you identify and fix errors before filing, or guide you on how to correct them if you already filed, by submitting a correction to USCIS.
You can travel, but with caution. You must maintain your permanent resident status and avoid long trips that could break your continuous residence. Trips longer than six months can create problematic presumptions. It’s critical to consult with a citizenship (N-400) attorney before planning any international travel during this period.
In general, you have two opportunities to pass. If you do not pass a section at your first naturalization interview, it will be rescheduled for a second appointment, usually within the next 60 to 90 days. An attorney for the citizenship exam can provide study materials and strategies to help you prepare with confidence.
Having a naturalization attorney near me or a citizenship attorney near me means having someone accessible who understands the local dynamics of USCIS offices and can offer more personalized, hands-on support throughout the process.
Processing times vary widely depending on the USCIS office and the complexity of your case. On average, the full citizenship application process (Form N-400) can take between 8 and 14 months. Your attorney for the naturalization application can give you a more precise estimate based on your location and circumstances.
What are the common reasons for denial of a citizenship application?
In this process, it’s important to understand why USCIS may deny your Form N-400 application for naturalization. To avoid these issues, consult with your citizenship (N-400) attorney and protect yourself against the following situations:
- Lack of good moral character: this includes lying on the application, failing to pay child support, tax evasion, or having recent criminal convictions.
- Breaks in continuous residence: spending too much time outside the United States during your eligibility period (generally more than six consecutive months).
- Lack of physical presence: not meeting the requirement to be physically present in the country for at least half of the required time.
- Failure to demonstrate attachment to the Constitution: the officer must be convinced that you are loyal to the United States and its principles.
- Failing the English or civics exams: not passing these tests after two opportunities.
- Lies or omissions in the application: this is considered immigration fraud and can have serious consequences, including deportation.
Cases that require an experienced naturalization attorney
Some situations make your N-400 naturalization application more complex. In these cases, having an experienced naturalization attorney is not optional—it is essential:
- Criminal history, including arrests that did not result in a conviction.
- Problems with tax filings.
- A history of receiving public benefits that could lead to a “public charge” determination.
- Voter records showing you unlawfully voted in U.S. elections.
- Multiple prolonged trips outside the United States.
- Having previously applied for citizenship and been denied.
- Issues with Selective Service registration if you are a male between 18 and 26.
Your next step toward U.S. citizenship
Whatever your situation, there is always hope. At The Law Firm of Moumita Rahman, we believe you deserve peace of mind, the ability to live without fear of the future, and a U.S. citizenship attorney who will fight for you.
If you’ve been told your case is too complicated because of a past mistake; if you’re afraid of making an error on the application and risking your future; or if you simply want the assurance that everything is in order for your naturalization interview and citizenship exam, our legal team can help at every step.
With more than 14 years of experience, we have helped immigrants achieve their dream of U.S. citizenship.
We are a firm founded by immigrants, for immigrants. Our team includes nearly 100 committed professionals, many with immigrant backgrounds.
We use a “leave-no-loose-ends” approach for every N-400 naturalization application.
Don’t let confusion or fear keep you from taking this crucial step. If you’re looking for an attorney for a citizenship application or a naturalization application who will fight tirelessly for your freedom and your future, you’ve come to the right place.
Contact us now for a personalized evaluation of your citizenship application (Form N-400). At The Law Firm of Moumita Rahman, we fight for your freedom.
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Our mission is to help clients secure immigration relief and live with peace of mind. A better future for you and your family is within reach. At Moumita Rahman Immigration Attorneys, we fight for your freedom.
