Houston Naturalization Lawyers
Start Your Journey with Trusted Houston Naturalization Lawyers
Becoming a U.S. citizen is a significant milestone that opens doors to new rights, protections, and opportunities. However, applying for citizenship is not always straightforward. The naturalization application process is governed by complex immigration law and overseen by USCIS.
Each case is reviewed by an immigration officer who evaluates eligibility, supporting evidence, and legal compliance. Houston naturalization lawyers play a crucial role in guiding applicants through each step, helping to avoid delays, errors, and denials.
Eligibility for Naturalization
You must first be a lawful permanent resident (i.e., a green card holder) to apply for naturalization. Most applicants must demonstrate that they’ve been physically present in the United States for at least five years (or three years if married to a US citizen).
Other requirements include continuous residence, basic proficiency in English, and knowledge of U.S. history and government. Contact Lamb and Turner before filing for more information on these eligibility criteria.
Family-Based Eligibility Factors
Your family relationships can make you eligible for citizenship sooner. If you were born abroad to at least one parent who was a US citizen, you may already have citizenship through acquired or derivative means. Similarly, being married to a U.S. citizen spouse can shorten the residency requirement from five years to three.
In other cases, relationships with a father, mother, grandparent, or sibling who is a US citizen can help you qualify for facilitated citizenship pathways. Schedule a free consultation today to learn more.
Filing the Naturalization Application
The first formal step is completing the application for naturalization, also known as Form N-400. Your checklist for the application includes:
- Proof of permanent resident status
- Travel history for the required residency
- Marriage and divorce certificates
- Tax records and employment history
- Criminal record documents
- Filing fee and identifying photos
Meeting the Legal and Moral Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate good moral character during the required residency period, which requires showing honest, law-abiding behavior and respect for U.S. laws. A criminal record can complicate a naturalization application, where some crimes may make an applicant ineligible altogether.
Understanding the Naturalization Process
The naturalization process involves several steps before you can be considered naturalized and attain United States citizenship. Once USCIS accepts your application, you will be scheduled for Biometrics and a background check. Afterwards, you’ll attend an interview and naturalization test with a USCIS officer.
If approved, you’ll take the Oath of Allegiance, officially becoming a US citizen. Some applicants may also have acquired citizenship through their parents or grandparents, which follows a different process. Consult Lamb and Turner for more guidance.
What to Expect in the Naturalization Test and Interview
The naturalization test evaluates your ability to speak English, read, write, and understand basic U.S. civics. You’ll answer questions about history, government, and the rights and responsibilities of citizens.
During the interview, an immigration officer will review your application, confirm your information, and assess your eligibility. If successful, you’ll be scheduled for an Oath of Allegiance ceremony, the final step to becoming a US citizen.
When an Application is Denied
You may still have options if your application is denied. USCIS may allow you to request a hearing to appeal the decision, and in some cases, refiling the application with stronger evidence can be a potential pathway. Having legal counsel at this stage is critical, so take immediate action to protect your immigration goals.
Certificate of Naturalization and Citizenship Rights
Upon approval, you will receive a Certification of Naturalization — a document that serves as legal proof of your status and allows you to obtain a US passport, vote in elections, and enjoy full rights as a United States citizen. Call our law office today to schedule a consultation, and let us help you navigate the USCIS system with confidence.
Call Our Houston Naturalization Lawyers Today!
Ready to begin your citizenship journey? Contact Houston naturalization lawyers at Lamb and Turner for a team with experience, resources, and dedication to guide you through every step.
Common Questions About Naturalization
The fastest paths to U.S. citizenship for non-born individuals are through a U.S. citizen spouse or serving in the U.S. military. You can apply for naturalization after three years as a permanent resident if married to a U.S. citizen, or potentially waive residency requirements entirely via military service. The standard route requires five years as a permanent resident before applying for citizenship.
Yes, you can travel while waiting for naturalization, but it’s important to be aware of the potential impact on your application. While travel itself won’t automatically disqualify you, long absences or frequent short trips can affect your eligibility by impacting the “continuous residence” and “physical presence” requirements.
While no single “new law” governs immigrants married to citizens in 2025, the most significant changes are within USCIS policy, which includes increased scrutiny of applications, potential denial without prior warning (Request for Evidence/Notice to Appear), and the introduction of parole in place (PIP) for long-term undocumented spouses of citizens. Other changes involve strict adherence to updated forms, including the I-693 medical exam at filing, and higher filing fees.
Reviews
Mr. Lamb is exceptional, he listened to all of our concerns and was very thorough explaining my process on the first consultation. Isela is superb always very attentive and responsive to all my questions. She would always respond in a timely manner to my calls/emails.
Jessica was great updating me with the actions taken against my case via email. Overall a great experience everyone always treated my husband and I as family. Thank you for all you do.
Carla Orona 
Attorney Turner is the best! From our initial consultation to the resolution of our case, she and her team showed genuine commitment. Their expertise, professionalism, and excellent communication skills made the entire process smooth and stress-free. I would highly recommend Lamb and Turner for all your legal matters.
Kanza Fatima
Mr. Lamb is amazing and the best attorney I have ever dealt with . The whole staff truly cares and you are not just a number. I am beyond relieved I have Mr Lamb and his assistant that are a Real team behind me. They will take care and make things right for you!
Tara Geck
This firm is very knowledgeable in every aspect of their practice. Everyone within the firm is passionate about what they do! They live for their WHY! Great experience! I cannot say how thankful I am to have found this firm, they are phenomenal! Best immigration lawyers!
Nevay Murphy