Naturalization for Those Who Obtained Their Green Card Through Marriage to a U.S. Citizen


Shawn Sedaghat, Esq.
Becoming a U.S. citizen is an exciting step for anyone who has gone through the immigration process. If you’ve obtained your green card through marriage to a U.S. citizen, you’re in a unique position where you can apply for naturalization in just three years, rather than the usual five. That’s right! You get to fast-track your way to citizenship, and today, we’re going to dive deep into how that works. This article will explain the eligibility requirements, the naturalization process, and everything you need to know about naturalization for those who obtained their green card through marriage to a us citizen.
Becoming a U.S. citizen comes with several benefits that green card holders don’t get to enjoy. Let’s talk about some of those perks:
- The Right to Vote: Once you’re a U.S. citizen, you’ll have the power to vote in all elections – local, state, and federal. This means you can help shape the country’s future!
- Unrestricted Travel: Unlike green card holders, U.S. citizens can travel abroad without worrying about residency requirements or losing their status.
- Protection from Deportation: Green card holders could face deportation if they violate certain laws, but U.S. citizens have the permanent right to stay in the country.
- Sponsoring Family Members: As a U.S. citizen, you can sponsor more family members for immigration, including your parents, siblings, and married children.
- Access to Federal Jobs and Benefits: Many federal jobs and benefits are reserved for U.S. citizens only. Citizenship opens doors to new career opportunities and access to programs like Social Security and Medicare.
Ready to take the next step? Let’s walk through the naturalization process, eligibility requirements, and the steps you need to complete.
Eligibility Requirements for Naturalization Through Marriage
Before you apply for naturalization, you need to make sure you meet all the eligibility criteria. Here’s a breakdown of the key requirements for those who obtained a green card through marriage:
1. Residency Requirements
To be eligible for citizenship, you must have been a permanent resident (green card holder) for at least three years. During this of being a permanent resident, you need to have lived continuously in the U.S. and spent at least half of that period (18 months) physically present in the country.
2. Marital Union
To qualify for naturalization after three years, you need to prove that you’ve been living in marital union with your U.S. citizen spouse for the entire three-year period. This means that you’ve been living together as a married couple.
3. Good Moral Character
You’ll need to show that you have good moral character. This means you’ve been following U.S. laws, paying your taxes, and avoiding any criminal activity. A criminal record could impact your eligibility, so it’s important to be upfront about any legal issues.
4. English and Civics Knowledge
Part of the naturalization process includes passing an English test and a U.S. civics test. The English test will check your ability to read, write, and speak in English, while the civics test will cover basic U.S. history and government.
5. Federal Tax Returns
Being up-to-date with your federal tax returns is crucial. When you apply for naturalization, you’ll need to submit tax returns from the last three years as proof that you’ve been fulfilling your responsibilities as a resident.
6. Clean Criminal Record
If you’ve been involved in any criminal activity, it could disqualify you from becoming a U.S. citizen. Crimes such as aggravated felonies or drug-related offenses could lead to denial of your application. Always be honest on your forms and provide any necessary legal documents if needed.
Now that you know the eligibility requirements, let’s move on to the actual process of becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization.

The Naturalization Process
The journey to becoming a U.S. citizen through marriage doesn’t have to be confusing or stressful! Here’s an easy-to-follow outline of the steps you’ll need to take.
1. Complete and Submit Form N-400
The first step in the naturalization process is to fill out Form N-400, which is the Application for Naturalization. This form asks for details about your background, your marriage, and your time as a green card holder. Once you’ve completed it, you’ll submit it to Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) with the required documentation.
Make sure you have the following documents on hand:
- A copy of your green card
- Your marriage certificate
- Proof of continuous residence in the U.S.
- Your tax returns from the last three years
The filing fee for Form N-400 is currently $760, which includes the application fee and the biometrics fee.
2. Attend a Biometrics Appointment
Once you’ve submitted your application, USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment for you. This is a process all aspiring green card holders must undergo. This is where they’ll collect your fingerprints, photograph, and signature to confirm your identity and run background checks.
3. The Naturalization Interview
The next step is the naturalization interview. This is your chance to show that you meet all the requirements for U.S. citizenship. A USCIS officer will go over your application, ask questions about your marital union, and test your English skills and knowledge of U.S. civics.
To prepare, make sure you review U.S. history and government materials, and practice answering questions in English. You’ll also be asked about your time in the U.S. and your relationship with your spouse.
4. Pass the English and Civics Test
During the interview, you’ll take both the English test and the civics test. The English test consists of three parts: reading, writing, and speaking. The civics test includes questions about U.S. history, the Constitution, and how the government works. You can find practice tests and study materials on the USCIS website.
5. Attend the Oath of Allegiance Ceremony
If you pass the interview and tests, you’re almost there! The final step in the naturalization process is to attend the Oath of Allegiance ceremony. At this ceremony, you’ll pledge your loyalty to the United States, and after taking the oath, you’ll officially become a U.S. citizen.
6. Receive Your Certificate of Naturalization
Once you’ve taken the Oath of Allegiance, you’ll receive your Certificate of Naturalization. This is your proof of U.S. citizenship. You’ll use it to apply for a U.S. passport and to register to vote.

Challenges You Might Face
While the process of naturalization is generally straightforward, there are a few potential challenges that can pop up along the way.
Divorce Before Naturalization
If you get divorced from your U.S. citizen spouse before completing the naturalization process, you may no longer be eligible to apply after three years. In most cases, you’ll have to wait five years instead.
Extended Time Abroad
If you’ve spent a significant amount of time outside the U.S. during your three-year permanent residency, it could interfere with your continuous residence requirement. Be sure to stay in the U.S. for at least 18 months during this period.
Criminal Record
A criminal record can also pose challenges during the naturalization process. USCIS requires you to demonstrate good moral character, so any criminal activity could disqualify you. Always be honest and upfront about any past issues.
Conclusion
Becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization is a rewarding and exciting experience. For those who obtained their green card through marriage to a U.S. citizen, the path to citizenship is faster and more accessible. By meeting the eligibility requirements and following the steps in the naturalization process, you can successfully complete your journey to U.S. citizenship. With citizenship, you’ll enjoy new rights, opportunities, and peace of mind.
If you have questions or concerns at any point in the process, don’t hesitate to consult an experienced immigration lawyer. They can help you navigate the application, answer any questions, and ensure that you’re on the right track toward citizenship.
FAQs
1. How long does it take to become a U.S. citizen through marriage?
If you’ve been married to a U.S. citizen and living with them for three years, you can apply for citizenship after that time. The entire process, from filing Form N-400 to taking the Oath of Allegiance, typically takes 8-12 months.
2. Can I apply for U.S. citizenship if I get divorced before my naturalization is complete?
Yes, but if you divorce before your naturalization process is complete, you’ll likely need to wait five years before you can apply for citizenship, instead of the usual three.
3. What happens if I don’t pass the English or civics test during the interview?
If you don’t pass the test during your initial interview, don’t worry! You’ll have another opportunity to take the test 60-90 days later. Be sure to study and prepare before your retake.
4. Do I need to hire an immigration lawyer to apply for naturalization?
While you can apply on your own, consulting with an experienced immigration lawyer can be helpful. They can guide you through the application process, ensure your paperwork is in order, and help you prepare for your interview.
5. Can I travel abroad while my naturalization application is pending?
Yes, you can travel abroad, but make sure to limit your trips. Extended time outside the U.S. could affect your continuous residence requirement and delay your application. Always check with USCIS if you have travel plans during the application process.