What to do BEFORE Applying for Naturalization
People who are unfamiliar with U.S. immigration laws often think that someone can “apply for citizenship” because of their marriage to a U.S. citizen or because they want to come to the United States. But the reality is that being eligible to request naturalization is often the last step in a multi-phase immigration process that often times has lasted over a decade and has involved hundreds of pages of legal documents being submitted to immigration officials.
Many people reach out to an immigration lawyer after they have already filed a naturalization application because they want help preparing for the interview. But, just the act of filing an application exposes the applicant to considerable risks. Naturalization is the time when USCIS reviews the applicant’s entire legal filing. If they find an error on a form, or even an error that USCIS itself made, it can jeopardize not only the applicant’s naturalization process, but their underlying Lawful Permanent Residence status.
So, before applying for naturalization, consider taking the following steps:
Ensure you have your complete immigration file. This includes copies of all visa applications, and a copy of your Application for Lawful Permanent Residence, and all documents you submitted to USCIS. If you don’t have these documents, you (or your lawyer) may request them via the Freedom of Information Act. These records can take months to receive.
Request your “tax account transcripts” from the IRS for the past 5 years (or 3 years if you’re seeking naturalization based on the 3 year rule). If you have any unpaid taxes, begin a payment plan and keep copies of documents showing that you’re making payments.
Request certified criminal records from any criminal court process.
If you were in immigration court proceedings, be sure you have the Judge’s order(s) showing how your case ended.
Understand what “citations” you may have received. As of 2026, Form N400 requests information about citations, which includes speeding and other driving infractions. Ensure tickets have been paid and that you have access to these records.
Look into whether - based on your age, the length of time you’ve been a Lawful Permanent Resident, and health conditions - you may be able to alter the English or Civics requirements at your interview.
Consider having a lawyer review all of the above before filing for naturalization, to confirm eligibility and discuss any risks.