Getting a Green Card is the first step in the formal process of becoming a U.S. citizen in New Jersey, which ends with taking the Oath of Allegiance. Here is a detailed guide to assist you in navigating the naturalization process.
1. Obtain Permanent Residency (Green Card)
You must first be a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) of New Jersey or any other state in the United States before beginning the citizenship process.
The following are typical routes to obtaining a Green Card:
Sponsorship by family
Green Cards based on employment
Status of an asylumr or refugee
Lottery for Diversity Visas
Depending on the category and the volume of work at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), processing a Green Card application might take several months to more than a year.
2. Meet Eligibility Criteria for Naturalization
The following requirements must be fulfilled in order to apply for naturalization after obtaining a Green Card:
Age: You have to be at least eighteen.
Duration of Green Card: You have to have had your Green Card for five years, or three years if you are married to a citizen of the United States.
Continuous residence: You have to have been physically present in the United States for a predetermined amount of time and have lived there continuously.
Excellent moral character: You must exhibit excellent moral character.
Proficiency in English: You must be able to read, write, and communicate in simple English.
Civics knowledge: You must pass a civics exam that covers the history and governance of the United States.
3. File Form N-400 Application for Naturalization
Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) must then be submitted to the USCIS. The application can be sent in via mail or online. The following documents must be submitted with the form:
The Green Card
Identity verification (passport, for example)
Evidence proving residency, such as utility bills or leases
Additionally, you have to pay the application fee:
$710 for online filing
$760 if mail-filed
You’ll also need to show up for a biometrics appointment so that your fingerprints, photo, and signature may be taken for background checks.
4. Complete the Citizenship Interview and Exam
USCIS will set up an interview after processing your application. You will be evaluated on the following during this interview:
English language proficiency: speaking, writing, and reading.
Civics knowledge: inquiries concerning the rights, governance, and history of the United States.
Certain applicants might be eligible for modifications or exemptions due to their age or disability. Extended exam time or the choice to take the test in a different format are two examples of these accommodations.
5. Attend the Oath of Allegiance Ceremony
You will be invited to the Oath of Allegiance ceremony if your application is accepted. You will formally become a citizen of the United States by taking the Oath of Allegiance during this ceremony.
You will be granted full citizenship rights, including the ability to vote and apply for a U.S. passport, upon taking the oath. You will also get your Certificate of Naturalization.
Additional Important Notes
To prevent delays, make sure your Form N-400 is exact and complete.
Translation and certification are required for any non-English documents.
Applications for citizenship typically take 5.5 months to process as of 2025.
For guidance with the intricate legal procedure, including document preparation and interview techniques, many candidates find it beneficial to speak with immigration attorneys in New Jersey.
Summary Table of Citizenship Process in New Jersey
|
Step |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Obtain Green Card |
Gain lawful permanent resident status |
|
Eligibility Check |
Meet age, residency, English, and moral character criteria |
|
File Form N-400 |
Submit application for naturalization with USCIS |
|
Biometrics Appointment |
Submit fingerprints and photo for background check |
|
Interview and Exam |
Test English and civics knowledge |
|
Oath of Allegiance |
Ceremony to finalize citizenship |
Key Takeaway
In New Jersey, obtaining U.S. citizenship is a formal legal procedure that requires fulfilling qualifying requirements, providing the required paperwork, and proving that one is conversant in American culture and language.
The naturalization procedure is accelerated by the 2025 processing time improvements, but a smooth journey to citizenship can be ensured with good planning and legal advice.
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