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Achieve Your American Dream With the Help of Our Citizenship Attorneys in Chicago

Last updated on February 20, 2026

For many, becoming an American citizen is the final step toward a lifelong goal. However, the immigration process to achieve such a milestone can be overwhelming and confusing. One mistake in your application could lead to a denied case, which could jeopardize your future in the United States.

The attorneys of Borjas Law Group, LLC., are based in Chicago but have successfully helped clients nationwide navigate the complexities of the U.S. immigration system. We encourage you to seek legal advice before pursuing the pathway to citizenship.

Whether Tagalog, Spanish or English, our multilingual team ensures clear communication throughout your citizenship journey.

How Our Immigration Attorneys Facilitate Your Path to Citizenship

The journey to U.S. citizenship is an exciting one. Our attorneys can stand by you and protect your rights during your citizenship process.

Our Chicago citizenship attorneys can assist you with:

  • N-400, Application for Naturalization
  • N-600, Application for Certificate of Citizenship
  • N-336, Request for a Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings
  • N-648, Medical Certification for Disability Exceptions
  • Responses to Requests for Evidence (RFE) and Notices of Intent to Deny (NOID)
  • Federal lawsuits for delayed or denied applications

Borjas Law Group, LLC., has represented clients in naturalization application procedures before the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). We have also appealed decisions on citizenship applications. You can trust that we will explore all possible ways to assist you in becoming a U.S. citizen.

Steps to Achieve U.S. Citizenship Through Naturalization

The United States has a long history of welcoming immigrants from all over the world. For an immigrant, deciding to become a U.S. citizen can be an important milestone.

Eligibility Requirements for Naturalization

To be able to enjoy many of the rights and privileges that are fundamental to U.S. citizenship, individuals must demonstrate a commitment to the unifying principles that bind us as Americans.

To be eligible for U.S. citizenship, applicants must generally meet the following criteria:

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Hold a green card (lawful permanent resident status)
  • Meet residency and physical presence requirements
  • Demonstrate good moral character
  • Show English language proficiency
  • Pass a U.S. civics test
  • Be willing to take the Oath of Allegiance
  • Meet continuous residence requirements
  • File necessary forms and fees

Certain applicants, such as military members and spouses of U.S. citizens, may be exempt from some requirements. Since each case is individual, we suggest you contact our experienced Chicago citizenship attorney to learn more about which requirements fit your situation.

Understanding the Naturalization Process

To become a citizen through naturalization, you must first complete Form N-400. Along with this completed application, you must also provide certain required documents. These documents should be photocopies of your official documents whenever possible.

Some documents that may be required when applying for citizenship include:

  • Evidence of your green card
  • Information regarding your children and current or former spouses, if applicable
  • Two passport-style photos
  • Any documentation proving your military or disability status

After filling out your Application for Naturalization, you can send the application along with a check or money order covering your application fee to your local USCIS office. USCIS will review your application and send you a notice in the mail to schedule your biometrics appointment and interview with an officer.

During the interview, you will be asked to clarify any questions on your application. You should bring your original copies of any documents provided in your application. You also must pass an English and U.S. Civics test, where you will be tested on your comprehension of the English language as well as U.S. history and law.

The USCIS can take some time to make a final decision. During this time, you may be asked to provide additional clarifying information.

If your application is approved for naturalization, you will be scheduled for an oath ceremony. Applicants need to take the oath to receive their Certificate of Naturalization.

U.S. Citizenship FAQ: Answers From Our Chicago Lawyers

Are you seeking U.S. citizenship? This is an exciting prospect but a challenging process. At Borjas Law Group, LLC., we are passionate about helping immigrants achieve their goals and obtain U.S. citizenship. As you navigate the process, you will likely have many questions. Our Chicago attorneys have answers.

The answer depends on how you obtained your legal permanent resident card. You will be able to apply for U.S. citizenship either after three or five years of being a legal permanent resident.*

If you obtained your green card through a U.S. citizen spouse, you may apply for U.S. citizenship after three years of being a legal permanent resident. If you did not, you will be eligible for U.S. citizenship after being a green card holder for five years.

*Most applicants for naturalization are eligible to apply for citizenship 90 days before completing the three- or five-year legal permanent residence requirement.

You may apply for naturalization once you meet the following general eligibility requirements:

  • You are at least 18 years of age at the time of filing (except if you are an active duty member of the U.S. Armed Forces)
  • You have been a legal permanent resident of the United States for 5 years, or 3 years if you obtained your legal permanent status through a U.S. citizen spouse
  • You have lived within the state or USCIS district where you claim residence for at least 3 months prior to filing
  • You have been physically present in the U.S. for 2.5 years or 1.5 years if you obtained your legal permanent status through a U.S. citizen spouse
  • You demonstrate continuous residence for 5 years, or 3 years if you obtained your legal permanent status through a U.S. citizen spouse
  • You demonstrate good moral character
  • You demonstrate an attachment to the principles and ideals of the U.S. Constitution
  • You demonstrate basic knowledge of U.S. history and government (by passing a civics exam) as well as an ability to read, write, speak and understand basic English
  • You take an Oath of Allegiance to the U.S.

 

These are general requirements and some may not apply to your specific circumstances. You should contact our office for a consultation to determine if you qualify for U.S. citizenship.

The total fee is $680. This includes $595 for the N-400 Application and $85 for biometrics.

Note, there are two exceptions to paying the $85 biometrics fee:

  • Applicants 75 years of age or older are not charged a biometric fee, the total fee is $595.
  • No fee is required for military applicants filing under Sections 328 and 329 of the INA.

USCIS will accept a money order, personal check, cashier’s check or credit card payment using Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions. You must send the fee with your N-400 Application.

If paying by money order, personal check or cashier’s check, you must make it payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Do not use the initials DHS or USDHS. Also, do not send cash.

On average, the entire process should take about six months after Form N-400 is filed with USCIS. Keep in mind that the actual time it takes could be more or less, depending on your specific circumstances and the processing times of the USCIS office having jurisdiction over your application.

You become a U.S. citizen as soon as you take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States in a formal naturalization ceremony.

Why Choose Borjas Law Group, LLC., for Your Citizenship Needs?

Choosing proper representation for your citizenship application is crucial for the outcome. You can rest assured that our Chicago attorneys can support you in every step of this lengthy process.

We want to be part of this rewarding journey of obtaining your United States passport and calling the U.S. home. Our clients receive legal representation and advice they can trust.

We offer consultations over the phone (pay a small fee) and in person (free), so call us today at 312-788-2783 to schedule an appointment or send us an email.

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