Naturalization Where Spouse Is A U.S. Citizen — Green Card To Citizenship

Hello. I am applying for Naturalization certificate right now through my spouse. I got the form N-400 Naturalization Application ready. But I am not sure what kind of documents I’m supposed to send with the N-400 Naturalization Application. I prepared the photos, the marriage certificate, spouse’s naturalization certificate, and copy of my green card. Is there anything else that I have to send to go from green card status to citizenship?
— Anonymous

Generally, an applicant for Naturalization must be a lawful permanent resident for at least five years prior to the date the N-400, Application for Naturalization, is filed with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The naturalization application can actually be filed four years

and nine months from the date lawful permanent resident status was granted. In some very limited instances, such as your situation where a naturalization applicant obtained their permanent resident status through marriage to a United States citizen, the application can be filed two years and nine months from the date the residency was granted. This is allowed if the applicant can meet the requirements that s/he has been married to and living with the United States citizen for the last three years and the spouse has been a United States citizen for at least three years.

In addition to all of the other requirements for Naturalization, USCIS will want to see proof of the abovementioned requirements. As you know, you will need to provide your marriage certificate and proof of the spouse’s Untied States citizenship. But you will also need to prove that you have been residing together with your spouse. Examples of such evidence include, but are not limited to, tax returns, lease agreements, mortgage documents, deed to jointly owned property, bank records, and insurance records. If you are not presently residing with your spouse, then you are still eligible to file for Naturalization. However, you will not be able to file after two years and nine months of being a permanent resident. You will have to wait four years and nine months from the date it was granted.

If you have additional questions about your eligibility to file for Naturalization as the spouse of a United States citizen, it may be best for you to consult with an experienced immigration lawyer.

Michael Shane and Evan Shane, Immigration Attorneys

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K F ★★★★★ a week ago
We came into the Shane& Shane family via Mr Brauwerman a former Immigration Judge prior to his retirement. We knew we … More were in great hands with this merger.
Veronica and Evan were our counsels for the Citizenship process for my spouse and I. Going in, I knew mine would have required additional work. As such, it was not a surprise when I received a decision cannot be made at the interview, while my spouse secured the citizenship at first interview.
Veronica was amazing on the first interview, she prepped me well and took copious notes. With this team, when they tell you to trust the process, believe them and just leave it in their capable hands to follow the protocol. Evan followed up and successfully secured a second interview after a long silence.
Evan prepped me equally and rigorously well for the second interview. He was even more intimidating than the real interview. As a result I am now a Citizen.
This team, Myrna, Veronica and Evan is truly a team. They are responsive, professional, authentic and transparent. They are a true immigration firm and we could not have asked for better representation. Reach out to them for a consultation, I guarantee you will retain them for representation.
Thank you guys!
Ademir Pavao ★★★★★ a year ago
Ademir Pavao
Myself and my son, Ademir Pavao Filho, are so happy here in USA, My son now is in Fort Bragg, Army in North … More Caroline, everything was perfect with us, an I become a permanent resident applying to become a citizenship next year, my special thank to Evan Shane and Maria, that solved all problems we had. I highly recommend this important and necessary services provided by Shane, Shane, and Brauwerman. Evan and Maria worked on our cases and we were impressed by how knowledgeable, organized, and reliable they were.
Ricardo Bendito ★★★★★ 3 months ago
This is by far the best law office!
For years I have dealt with countless law offices and have retained two different attorneys … More before coming to Shane & Shane. my case was very complex, battling mistaken identity while applying for I-601A waiver, and green card application. Evan and Veronica are ultimately the best attorneys I have ever dealt with. They analyzed and came up with a detailed plan pertaining to my case. They lead with full transparency the whole step of the way. I was impressed with the compassion and attention I was given. Thank you again to the whole staff for responding quickly and professionally every time I needed updates. I highly recommend retaining this Law Firm!