
USA Immigration FAQ
Frequently Asked Immigration Questions
Do you have to renew a green card?
Yes. Green Cards like passports expire and must be renewed.
How do I get started
Call us and we will give you a personalized assessment and let you know what to do to get on the path you want to be on.
How long will it take to become naturalized?
The time it takes to be naturalized varies from one local office to another. In 1997, in many places, it took over 2 years to process an application. USCIS continues to improve the naturalization process. As of October 2001, USCIS reported that it takes, on average, between 6 and 9 months to become naturalized.
When does my time as a Permanent Resident begin?
Your time as a Permanent Resident begins on the date you were granted permanent resident status. This date is on your Permanent Resident Card (formerly known as Alien Registration Card).
If I have been convicted of a crime but my record has been expunged, do I need to indicate that on my application or tell an Immigration officer?
Yes. You should always be honest with Immigration regarding all:
Arrests (including those by police, Immigration Officers, and other Federal Agents);
convictions (even if they have been expunged); and
crimes you have committed for which you were not arrested or
convicted.
Even if you have committed a minor crime, Immigration may deny your application if you do not tell the Immigration officer about the incident. It is extremely important that you tell Immigration about any arrest even if someone else has advised you that you are not required to do so.
If USCIS grants me naturalization, when will I become a citizen?
You become a citizen as soon as you take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States. In some places, you can choose to take the Oath the same day as your interview. If that option is not available or if you prefer a ceremony at a later date, USCIS will notify you of the ceremony date with a "Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony"
What can I do if USCIS denies my application?
There is an administrative review process for those who are denied naturalization. If you feel that you have been wrongly denied naturalization, you may request a hearing with an immigration officer. Your denial letter will explain how to request a hearing and will include the form you need.
Can I reapply for naturalization if USCIS denies my application?
In many cases, you may reapply. If you reapply, you will need to complete and resubmit a new N-400 and pay the fee again. You will also need to have your fingerprints and photographs taken again. If your application is denied, the denial letter should indicate the date you may reapply for citizenship. If you are denied because you failed the English or civics test, you may reapply for naturalization as soon as you want. You should reapply whenever you believe you have learned enough English or civics to pass the test.
I lost my Naturalization Certificate and I need to travel outside the U.S., how can I obtain proof of my citizenship so that I can apply for a U.S. passport with the Department of State?
You should file Form N-565 (Application for Replacement Naturalization Citizenship Document) with your local office to replace the lost certificate.