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Naturalization after marrying a U.S. citizen

On Behalf of | Oct 3, 2024 | Immigration

Millions of people around the world dream of becoming a U.S. citizen. Whether those individuals are permanent residents who are already in the United States or are in other countries hoping to make the transition, the process of moving toward naturalization isn’t easy. However, if you are married to a U.S. citizen, the pathway may be a bit less complicated.

Married to a citizen

For those who are married to a U.S. citizen, there are many different eligibility factors to satisfy on the path toward naturalization.

First, there is an application that must be filled out and filed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. You must prove that you are at least 18 years old at the time the application is submitted. You must also prove that you have been married for at least three years before the application is submitted. Generally, you must also show that you have been a lawful permanent resident and actually residing in the United States.

Beyond those factors, the eligibility requirements for naturalization as the spouse of a U.S. citizen are generally the same as for all other naturalization applicants. Mainly, that means that you must be able to show that you understand the English language – writing, reading and speaking – and that you understand how the government of the United States works. You must also be of “good character,” a term that, among other things, means you have not been convicted of certain crimes.

Before you will be able to take the oath to become a U.S. citizen, there will likely be many steps along the way that might seem to frustrate your efforts. But, with the right legal information, you should be able to get to the finish line if your application is based upon a legal marriage to a U.S. citizen.