Applying for citizenship

[Merlion@ 0]

Hello!

I have a few questions:

1. When applying for citizenship based on marriage to USC, it is my understanding that the marriage is still valid not only when applying but up to when one takes the oath. Is this correct?

2. What proof do I need to submit with the application? Life is complicated and I'm busy working. It sounds a bit annoying to have to submit pictures and the rest like for PR, but I'll do what it takes.

3. How long does (more or less) the processing take?

4. What happens after I send the paperwork? Is there biometrics again? How does it work?

Thank you.

[Kathryn41 3,205]

Hello!

I have a few questions:

1. When applying for citizenship based on marriage to USC, it is my understanding that the marriage is still valid not only when applying but up to when one takes the oath. Is this correct?

Yes.

2. What proof do I need to submit with the application? Life is complicated and I'm busy working. It sounds a bit annoying to have to submit pictures and the rest like for PR, but I'll do what it takes.

All the information you need is here: A Guide to Naturalization http://www.uscis.gov/files/article/M-476.pdf There is a handy chart at the back that includes a checklist. What you need to submit depends on your individual circumstances but basically proof of your permanent residency, proof of your marriage and its current validity, proof that you have been a good permanent resident, paid your taxes, and applied for selective services if required; information about any run-ins with the police; information about trips outside of the US to determine whether you meet the physical presence and continuous residency requirements; proof that all previous marriages are ended, etc. Read the guide - it isn't long and it tells you everything you need to know.

3. How long does (more or less) the processing take?

It varies depending on where you live in the country but generally it is running from 4 to 6 months from submission to interview date. Waiting for the oath ceremony depends as well on where you live and how often they are scheduled.

4. What happens after I send the paperwork? Is there biometrics again? How does it work?

Yes there is a biometrics. You send in the application. You receive a NOA1 receipt. You receive a notice of ASC appointment (biometrics). You attend biometrics and get a booklet to study for the test. You may receive a list of documents to bring to the interview (or you may not); you receive an interview date. You attend the interview, answer the test questions, provide originals of the documents you submitted, provide additional documentation if requested; prove you can read and write English and either pass or fail the interview/test. If you pass you may get the oath ceremony that same day if your appointment is in the morning and your USCIS office offers that option, or you will receive a notice that you have passed and will be notified of an oath date, or you will receive a notice requesting further information if needed, or if you fail, you will be so advised. Eventually, if you passed you will be provided with an oath date. You attend the ceremony, turn in your green card and receive your Naturalization certificate.

It really is in your best interests, though, to take the time to read the above guide, read the N-400 application and read the N-400 instructions.

Thank you.

[Merlion@ 0]

I did not log in since I posted the message. I wanted to say thanks. I will read the document you posted.

[senyorita80 1]

Hello!

I have a few questions:

1. When applying for citizenship based on marriage to USC, it is my understanding that the marriage is still valid not only when applying but up to when one takes the oath. Is this correct? Of course.

2. What proof do I need to submit with the application? Life is complicated and I'm busy working. It sounds a bit annoying to have to submit pictures and the rest like for PR, but I'll do what it takes.

I submitted: 3yrs Tax transcripts showing filed jointly, marriage cert, hubbys b-cert, copies of GC back n front, 2 passport photos, copies of passport/Drivers License, copies of bank statements (as joint) or mortgage. No need to send in photos of your spouse together... and most importantly the needed forms (n400, etc) AND your payment (check).

3. How long does (more or less) the processing take? I mailed my application last wk of October. Biometrics last wk of December. Interview last wk of April. Oath 3rd wk of this month!

4. What happens after I send the paperwork? Is there biometrics again? How does it work? Yes. I actually dressed well and did my hair cuz I thought... oh my this is for my citizenship! But then no picture taking lol just fingerprinting.

Thank you.

Edited May 4, 2010 by senyorita80