Athens Citizenship & Naturalization Lawyer
Help for green card holders ready to become U.S. citizens, from checking eligibility to preparing for the interview and civics test.
The Path to U.S. Citizenship
Most green card holders become citizens through naturalization. You file Form N-400 with USCIS, then complete a few steps before taking the Oath of Allegiance.
- The application. You file Form N-400 with documents showing your residence, travel, and background.
- Biometrics. USCIS takes your fingerprints and photo for background checks.
- The interview and tests. A USCIS officer reviews your application and gives you the English and civics tests.
- The oath. Once approved, you take the Oath of Allegiance and become a U.S. citizen.
Who Can Apply for Citizenship
General requirements
- At least 18 years old
- A green card holder for 5 years, or 3 years if married to and living with a U.S. citizen
- Continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S. for at least half that time
- At least 3 months living in Georgia (or your USCIS district) before filing
- Good moral character
You can file up to 90 days before you reach the 5-year or 3-year mark.
The English and civics tests
- English: reading, writing, and speaking
- Civics: if you filed on or after October 20, 2025, the officer asks up to 20 questions and you must answer 12 correctly
- If you filed earlier, the officer asks up to 10 questions and you must answer 6 correctly
Some older, long-time residents can take the civics test in their own language or take a shorter version, and a medical disability waiver is available in some cases.
Citizenship Matters I Handle
Naturalization applications
Preparing and filing Form N-400 with the supporting documents USCIS expects.
Eligibility review
Checking your residence, travel history, and background before you file, so there are no surprises at the interview.
Interview & test preparation
Helping you get ready for the interview questions and the English and civics tests.
Certificates of citizenship
Form N-600 for people who became citizens through a U.S. citizen parent and need proof of citizenship.
Exceptions & waivers
Guidance on the age-based English exceptions and the medical disability waiver for the tests.
Requests for evidence
Responding to USCIS requests for more documents so your case keeps moving.
Careful Preparation, Honest Answers
A naturalization application asks about years of your life: every trip outside the U.S., every address, and your full background. Before anything is filed, I review your history and tell you plainly whether you are ready to apply and whether anything needs attention first.
From there, my team prepares your application, tracks the case, and helps you get ready for your interview. You work directly with me throughout, and an interpretation service is available if you prefer another language.
Citizenship & Naturalization FAQs
When can I apply for citizenship?
Most green card holders can apply after 5 years of permanent residence, or after 3 years if married to and living with a U.S. citizen during that time. You can file up to 90 days before you reach that date.
What is on the civics test?
If you filed on or after October 20, 2025, the officer asks up to 20 questions from a list of 128, and you must answer 12 correctly. If you filed before then, the older test applies: up to 10 questions from a list of 100, with 6 correct answers needed.
Do I have to take the test in English?
Usually, yes. Applicants who are 50 or older with 20 years as a green card holder, or 55 or older with 15 years, can take the civics test in their own language with an interpreter. Applicants 65 or older with 20 years as a green card holder get a shorter civics test.
Can I travel while my application is pending?
Generally, yes, but you must attend every appointment, and long trips abroad can affect your eligibility. Talk with me before planning extended travel.
What should I bring to my consultation?
Bring your green card, passports, a list of trips outside the U.S. in the last five years, recent tax returns, marriage or divorce records if they apply, and any court records if you have ever been arrested.
Take the Final Step to Citizenship
Your first consultation is free. Book online or call or text the office, and you will speak with attorney Samuel E. Thomas, not a call center.