Citizenship / Naturalization 

Introduction: Your Path to American Citizenship Begins Here

For immigrants living in the United States, the journey toward citizenship represents far more than a bureaucratic process—it symbolizes the culmination of years of effort, sacrifice, and a profound commitment to making this nation home. At OCHOA PLLC, we understand that naturalization is more than a filing—it is a life-altering transformation. Becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization unlocks rights, freedoms, and protections that shape the future of individuals and families for generations to come.

Whether you reside in Houston or across the globe, our immigration legal services are designed to guide you through every nuance of the naturalization process with precision, professionalism, and empathy. As a modern law firm serving clients locally and internationally, we believe every eligible immigrant deserves a clear, confident path to American citizenship—backed by legal excellence and unwavering support. 

Understanding Citizenship and Naturalization

U.S. citizenship may be obtained through birth, derivation, or naturalization. Naturalization refers specifically to the legal process by which lawful permanent residents (green card holders) become citizens of the United States. For many, this transition marks the most significant milestone in their immigration journey. It is the moment when legal presence becomes legal permanence, and constitutional rights are no longer aspirational—they are guaranteed. 

Naturalization is governed by a complex set of federal laws codified primarily under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). Applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements, submit detailed forms, pass language and civics tests, and take an oath of allegiance. Yet, despite its complexity, this process becomes manageable—and empowering—with the right legal team by your side.

Who Is Eligible for Citizenship?

The foundation of eligibility begins with lawful permanent residency, but there are several layers of criteria that must be met to qualify for naturalization. Generally, an applicant must be at least 18 years old and have maintained lawful permanent resident (LPR) status for a minimum of five years. For those married to U.S. citizens, the residency requirement is reduced to three years, provided certain conditions are met regarding cohabitation and spousal status. 

Beyond residency, applicants must demonstrate good moral character, an attachment to the principles of the U.S. Constitution, and a willingness to take the Oath of Allegiance. Importantly, applicants must show physical presence in the U.S. for at least half of the statutory residency period and must not have abandoned their permanent resident status by residing abroad for extended periods.

Residency, Presence, and Continuous Residence Explained

A common source of confusion among applicants is the difference between continuous residence and physical presence. Continuous residence refers to maintaining a home in the United States over the statutory period (five or three years), while physical presence means the actual days spent on U.S. soil. Absences exceeding six months can disrupt continuous residence, and those lasting over a year can severely compromise eligibility—unless special provisions are taken, such as filing Form N-470. 

The Good Moral Character Requirement

U.S. immigration law imposes a requirement of “good moral character” for citizenship applicants. While this term may appear subjective, it has a specific legal meaning defined in the INA and interpreted by USCIS officers. Certain criminal convictions—especially those involving aggravated felonies, drug trafficking, or crimes of moral turpitude—can bar naturalization altogether.

However, not all criminal conduct results in permanent ineligibility. Some offenses, including minor infractions, may not be disqualifying if proper disclosures and evidence of rehabilitation are provided. At OCHOA PLLC, we scrutinize your records, assess risk, and prepare comprehensive documentation to present your case in the best possible light. Where applicable, we offer criminal record analysis, expungement referrals, and coordination with criminal defense attorneys. 

The Naturalization Application: Form N-400

The central form used to initiate the naturalization process is Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. This 20-page federal form collects critical information related to your identity, family, immigration history, employment, travel, affiliations, and criminal background. It must be completed accurately, truthfully, and thoroughly—any discrepancies or omissions can trigger a Request for Evidence (RFE), Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID), or worse. 

USCIS Interview and English/Civics Test

Following submission of the N-400 and biometrics appointment, USCIS will schedule a naturalization interview. During this appointment, a USCIS officer will review your application and test your English language proficiency and knowledge of U.S. history and government.

Applicants are required to read and write basic English and demonstrate the ability to speak and understand simple phrases. The civics test comprises questions selected from a 100-item study guide. Passing requires correctly answering at least six out of ten questions. Certain applicants—based on age and duration of residency—may be eligible for exemptions or simplified versions of the test.

The Oath of Allegiance: Final Step, Lifelong Commitment

Upon approval of your application, you will be scheduled for a naturalization ceremony where you will take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States. This solemn pledge affirms your commitment to the Constitution and the nation’s laws. Only after the oath is administered do you officially become a U.S. citizen.

Conclusion: Begin Your Journey with Confidence

Citizenship is not the end of an immigration journey—it’s the beginning of a new chapter. With rights come responsibilities, and with status comes security. OCHOA PLLC is honored to stand beside immigrants seeking to realize the American dream. Our mission is simple: to provide world-class legal services that transform lives.

To ensure a seamless process, consider consulting with our experienced immigration attorneys at Ochoa, PLLC. Contact us at (713) 984-4823 to schedule a consultation.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is not intended as legal advice. Each immigration case is unique, and individuals