Question about my Wife and my step son

[NoJ 10]

I am a US Citizen and at 3 years my wife can apply for citizenship via N-400. My wife has a now 15 year old who is her son from a previous marriage does he have to also fill out the N-400 and pay the fees? or is there another process? Thank you for the help

 

Both my wife and her son are permenant residents living here in the US with me for the last 5 years, its going to be 3 years since they received green cards. 

[OldUser 6,562]

No, only mother has to file N-400. As long as the kid was in your and her custody, living with you, he will become a US citizen by operation of law. It's also beneficial to apply for certificate of naturalization for that kid once he becomes a US citizen. It costs over $1000, but it will ensure the kid will never have issues proving he is a citizen when applying for some jobs or renewing passport. He may be asked for proof 30 years later when you or your spouse may no longer be around.

 

Also, did your spouse have a conditional green card or always 10 year GC? If she still has a conditional green card, did she and her son apply for I-751?

 

 

 

[NoJ 10]

They both received a 10 year card.