How to Apply for US Citizenship by Family

Imagine this: you’re holding the coveted U.S. passport, a symbol of opportunity and freedom. It might seem like a far-off dream, but it’s within your grasp if you have a family connection to the United States. In this article, we’re going to walk you through the entire process of applying for U.S. citizenship based on a family relationship. Whether you’re married to a U.S. citizen, have parents who are citizens, or other family members who can sponsor you, this guide has everything you need to know to turn your dreams into reality.

What is Family-Based Citizenship?

Family-based U.S. citizenship is a pathway that allows certain relatives of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to obtain citizenship more easily. Essentially, U.S. immigration law prioritizes family unity, making it one of the most common ways to obtain citizenship. By leveraging this path, applicants can enjoy the benefits of expedited naturalization processes, a direct line to green card eligibility, and eventual citizenship.

There are two main routes to obtaining U.S. citizenship through family ties:

1. Immediate relatives: These are spouses, children, or parents of U.S. citizens.
2. Family preference categories: This includes siblings and married children of U.S. citizens, along with specific categories of relatives of lawful permanent residents.

But before we dive into the process, let’s start with the basics and see if you’re eligible.

Eligibility Requirements for Family-Based U.S. Citizenship

To apply for citizenship through family-based relationships, the first requirement is usually that the applicant must hold a green card. Citizenship applications can be made only after a certain period as a lawful permanent resident (LPR). The required time varies based on the family connection, and we’ll break this down step by step:

1. Spouse of a U.S. Citizen
   If you’re married to a U.S. citizen, you can apply for citizenship after 3 years as a green card holder. However, there are a few additional conditions to meet:

   • You must have been living in a marital union with your spouse for the 3 years before applying.
   • Your spouse must have been a U.S. citizen for the entire 3-year period.
   • You must meet all other naturalization requirements, such as good moral character, continuous residence, and physical presence in the U.S.

2. Parents of U.S. Citizens
   Parents of adult U.S. citizens (over 21 years old) can also apply for citizenship through family sponsorship. However, this usually involves first obtaining a green card before applying for naturalization.

3. Children of U.S. Citizens
   If you’re under 18 and have a U.S. citizen parent, you might already be eligible for automatic citizenship. If not, you may need to apply for a green card first and then proceed to naturalization.

4. Other Family Members
   Other relatives, like siblings or married children, may face a longer waiting period due to family preference categories. After obtaining a green card, they must wait 5 years before applying for U.S. citizenship.

The Application Process: From Green Card to U.S. Citizen

Once you’re eligible, you can start the citizenship application process, which involves multiple steps:

Step 1: File Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization)

This is the primary form you’ll need to fill out to apply for U.S. citizenship. Make sure you:

• Complete the form accurately.
• Pay the application fee (currently $725, including biometric fees).
• Submit two passport-style photos (if applicable).
• Attach your green card information.

Step 2: Biometric Appointment

After submitting your application, USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) will schedule you for a biometric appointment. At this appointment, you’ll have your fingerprints, photograph, and signature taken. This step helps verify your identity and run a background check.

Step 3: Citizenship Interview

The next phase is the interview with a USCIS officer. This interview is crucial, and it typically involves:

• Reviewing your N-400 form and ensuring all information is accurate.
• Testing your ability to read, write, and speak English (there are exemptions for older applicants and those with certain disabilities).
• Testing your knowledge of U.S. history and government (civics test).

To pass the civics test, you must correctly answer 6 out of 10 questions. USCIS provides a list of 100 potential questions, so make sure you study in advance.

Step 4: Oath of Allegiance

After passing your interview and civics test, the final step is taking the Oath of Allegiance. Once you take this oath, you become a U.S. citizen! You’ll receive your Certificate of Naturalization, which can be used to apply for a U.S. passport and other important documents.

Special Circumstances and Expedited Citizenship Options

In some cases, you can fast-track your application for U.S. citizenship through family relationships:

1. Expedited Citizenship for Military Families
   If you’re a spouse or child of a U.S. citizen in the military, you might be eligible for expedited citizenship under certain circumstances. This process is often streamlined due to the sacrifices made by military families.

2. Adopted Children
   If you were adopted by U.S. citizen parents, you might be able to obtain citizenship more quickly depending on the circumstances of the adoption and your country of origin.

3. Widows or Widowers of U.S. Citizens
   If your U.S. citizen spouse passed away, you might still be eligible for naturalization, provided certain criteria are met. This requires showing that the marriage was bona fide (genuine) and not fraudulent.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls: A Checklist for Success

The process of applying for citizenship by family relationship can be overwhelming. Here’s a checklist of common mistakes to avoid to ensure a smooth application:

• Incomplete Forms: Be meticulous when filling out Form N-400. Even minor errors can cause delays.
• Not Meeting Residency Requirements: If you’ve spent too much time outside the U.S., you might not meet the continuous residence requirement. In most cases, you need to spend at least half of the required period physically in the U.S.
• Insufficient Evidence of Relationship: Ensure you have all necessary documents, such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, or adoption records, to prove your relationship to the U.S. citizen.

What Happens After You Become a U.S. Citizen?

Once you’ve successfully gone through the process, you’ll enjoy the benefits of U.S. citizenship, including:

• The right to vote.
• Protection from deportation.
• Eligibility for federal jobs.
• The ability to sponsor other family members for their green cards.

Becoming a U.S. citizen through a family relationship is one of the most rewarding pathways. Not only does it open doors for you, but it also strengthens your family ties and roots in the United States.

FAQ: Quick Answers to Common Questions

• Can I lose my citizenship after obtaining it?
  While rare, citizenship can be revoked if obtained through fraud or misrepresentation.

• How long does the process take?
  The timeline for naturalization varies but typically takes between 6 to 12 months after submitting your N-400.

• Do I need to renounce my original citizenship?
  The U.S. allows dual citizenship, so in most cases, you can keep your original citizenship.

In conclusion, applying for U.S. citizenship by family can be a straightforward path if you meet the eligibility criteria and follow the necessary steps. The key is to stay organized, gather all required documentation, and be prepared for each stage of the process. With the right approach, you’ll soon be on your way to enjoying all the rights and privileges that come with being a U.S. citizen.