JG

Law Office of Jacquelyn R. Goncalves

Application for Naturalization

Form N-400: Your Application to Become a United States Citizen

Naturalization is the process by which lawful permanent residents become U.S. citizens. Form N-400 is the application — and Attorney Goncalves has guided clients from filing to oath ceremony in as little as three months.

N-400 Eligibility Requirements

Age 18+

At time of filing and oath ceremony

LPR 5 Years

3 years if married to U.S. citizen

Physical Presence

30 months in U.S. (18 if married to USC)

Continuous Residence

No breaks longer than 6 months

Good Moral Character

Evaluated for statutory period

English & Civics

Read, write, speak basic English; pass civics test

Civics & English Test Preparation

The citizenship interview includes an English reading and writing test and a civics test covering U.S. history and government. USCIS publishes 100 civics questions — you will be asked up to 10, and must answer 6 correctly.

Civics Topics Covered:

  • Principles of American democracy
  • System of government
  • Rights and responsibilities of citizens
  • American history (colonial period through today)
  • Geography and national symbols
  • Recent American history and government

Exceptions exist for applicants over 50 or 55 with long residence, and for medical disability waivers (Form N-648).

The Citizenship Interview

A USCIS officer reviews your entire N-400 application and asks questions about your background, residence, travel, and moral character. The civics and English tests are administered at this interview.

We conduct mock interviews so you arrive prepared, confident, and able to address any issues in your application.

Oath Ceremony

After approval, you attend an oath ceremony where you take the Oath of Allegiance and officially become a U.S. citizen. You may then apply for a U.S. passport and register to vote.

N-400 Processing Steps

1

File N-400

2

Biometrics

3

Interview

4

Decision

5

Oath Ceremony

N-400 Questions

Can I travel while my N-400 is pending?+
Short trips are generally fine, but extended absences can break continuous residence or physical presence requirements. Consult before any international travel.
What if I fail the civics test?+
You receive a second opportunity to take the test within 60–90 days. We provide study materials and practice sessions to maximize your chances of passing on the first attempt.
How long does N-400 processing take?+
Processing times vary by USCIS field office, currently averaging 6–12 months nationally. Some offices process significantly faster.

Attorney Jacquelyn R. Goncalves personally handles every case — Connecticut and nationwide.

Begin Your N-400 ApplicationRelated Service