Citizenship and Naturalization in Phoenix, Arizona
Becoming a U.S. citizen is an important step: it allows you to vote in federal elections, get a U.S. passport and petition for more family members. Attorney Claudia P. López helps permanent residents in Phoenix and throughout Arizona review their eligibility and prepare their naturalization application, in English or Spanish.
General requirements
In general, to apply for naturalization with Form N-400, a person must:
Be at least 18 years old.
Have been a permanent resident for 5 years, or for 3 years if married to and living with a U.S. citizen during that time.
Have continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S. for at least half of that period.
Have lived for at least 3 months in the state or USCIS district where the application is filed.
Show good moral character.
Pass the English and civics (history and government) test, unless an exception applies.
Be willing to take the oath of allegiance to the U.S. Constitution.
Why ask an attorney for help?
A citizenship application reviews a person’s entire immigration history. Long trips outside the country, arrests or convictions, unfiled taxes, child support or mistakes in earlier applications can affect the case and even cause bigger problems. Since 2025, USCIS also uses an updated civics test and reviews good moral character in more detail. Reviewing these points before filing can help avoid surprises.
How the process works
Review of eligibility and your history.
Preparing and filing Form N-400, which can be filed up to 90 days before meeting the residence requirement.
Biometrics appointment (fingerprints and photo).
Interview and test at the USCIS office in Phoenix.
Oath ceremony, where you receive your certificate of naturalization.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take the test in Spanish?
Some older applicants who have been permanent residents for many years may be exempt from the English requirement and take the civics test in their own language. There are also exceptions for medical disabilities.
I was arrested in the past. Can I apply?
It depends on the type of case and its outcome. We recommend a consultation before you file.
Do my children become citizens automatically?
Children under 18 who are permanent residents and live in the legal and physical custody of a U.S. citizen parent may acquire citizenship automatically if they meet the requirements of the law.
Are there delays for some nationalities?
Yes. Since late 2025, USCIS has temporarily paused certain applications, including naturalization, for nationals of some countries. We will tell you whether this affects your case.
Serving Phoenix and all of Arizona
Our office is located at 2323 N 3rd St #203, Phoenix, AZ 85004. If you do not have your green card yet, see our green card page.
Official sources
This information is general and is not legal advice. Immigration laws and policies change frequently; every case depends on its own facts.