Apply for Naturalization and Citizenship in Chicago

At Scott D. Pollock and Associates, P.C. in Chicago, our experienced immigration lawyers are here to help you through every stage of the naturalization and citizenship process. If you are ready to become a U.S. citizen through naturalization, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Find more information about the naturalization process at the Chicago USCIS Field Office- Naturalization Services.

What is Naturalization?

Naturalization is the legal process through which a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) becomes a U.S. citizen. Becoming a naturalized citizen means you gain a U.S. citizen’s full protection and rights.

You cannot be deported.

You can obtain a passport and travel freely.

You can sponsor your parents, adult children, and siblings for green cards.

Your children automatically become U.S. citizens even if they were born abroad.

You can receive federal benefits only available to U.S. citizens, such as Social Security, housing assistance, college assistance, and more.

You can vote in federal, state, and local elections.

You can run for elected office.

You can apply for jobs in the U.S. government.

Citizenship is a life-changing achievement that opens doors and offers you and your family exciting new opportunities.

Step-by-Step Guide: Applying for Citizenship in Chicago

Applying for citizenship involves many complex steps.

Determine if you are eligible for citizenship: Complete the Naturalization Eligibility Worksheet to assess your eligibility. If not, an experienced immigration attorney can help you find alternative routes to citizenship.
File Form N-400, Application for Naturalization: Submit the form online or by mail with the supporting documents and the filing fee. The online fee is $710, and the paper application is $760. You can find a document checklist on the USCIS website. Several documents are required when you file Form N-400; some of the most common are:
1. A copy of your permanent resident card
2. Two passport-style photos
3. Marriage license, if applicable

Once USCIS receives your application, they will send you a receipt notice. It generally takes five to six months for USCIS to review your application.

Biometrics appointment: You will receive a notice from USCIS regarding the date and time of your biometrics appointment at the Chicago Application Support Center. Biometrics include fingerprints, photographs, and a digital signature.
Interview and U.S. Citizenship Test: USCIS will schedule your interview and citizenship test at a Chicago office.
USCIS Decision: You will receive an approval, denial, or a continuation notice requesting additional information or action from USCIS.
Oath of Allegiance Ceremony: If approved, you will attend a naturalization ceremony in Chicago, where you will become an official U.S. citizen.

Eligibility Requirements for Naturalization

To become a naturalized citizen, you must meet specific requirements.

Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
Lawful Permanent Resident: You must have been an LPR for at least five years, or at least three years if you are married to a U.S. citizen.
Physical Presence: You must have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months of the five-year requirement, or 18 months of the three-year requirement.
Good Moral Character: USCIS will review your background for criminal history or immigration violations.
English and Civics Knowledge: You must demonstrate the ability to read, write, and speak basic English, as well as have an understanding of U.S. history and government.

Preparing for the Citizenship Test in Chicago

Every applicant must pass two key exams.

English Test: The English test covers reading, writing, and speaking.

Speaking Ability: Your ability to speak and understand English is assessed by the USCIS officer during your interview.
Reading ability: You must be able to read aloud one of the three sentences given.
Writing ability: You must be able to write out one of the three sentences given.

Civics Test: The Civics test covers American history and government.

The 2025 Naturalization Test is an oral test consisting of 20 questions from a list of 128. You must answer 12 of the questions correctly. Local resources in Chicago include community organizations, libraries, and citizenship classes that can help you prepare for these exams.

What Happens at the Naturalization Interview

Your interview will take place at a USCIS Chicago field office. At the interview, an immigration officer will review your N-400 application, verify your eligibility, and administer your tests. If you pass, you will schedule your Oath of Allegiance Ceremony. We highly recommend having one of our knowledgeable and skilled immigration attorneys attend the interview with you.

Common Naturalization Delays in Chicago

Due to high application volumes, Chicago can experience backlogs in scheduling interviews and oath ceremonies. Common causes of delays include:

Missing or incomplete information

Background check issues

Scheduling congestion at the Chicago field office

Staffing shortages

Being well-prepared with an immigration lawyer can minimize some of these risks for delay.

Denaturalization and Loss of Citizenship

Although rare, U.S. citizenship can be revoked through denaturalization. While there are many possible reasons for denaturalization, the two most common are:

Willful misrepresentation
Illegally obtained citizenship

Learn more about denaturalization and how Scott D. Pollock and Associates, P.C. can help.

Why Choose Us as Your Chicago Naturalization and Citizenship Lawyers?

Choosing the right legal team is key to your citizenship path in Chicago. Our experienced Scott D. Pollock and Associates, P.C. team has helped Chicago residents become U.S. citizens for decades. We combine our immigration law expertise with compassionate advocacy to ensure you have the best possible chance of success.

Our Local Experience with USCIS Cases

We know the USCIS Chicago field office procedures inside and out. From helping clients thoroughly and accurately complete their N-400 form, prepare for their interview, and Oath of Allegiance Ceremony, our experience with local USCIS officers and processes sets us apart.

Testimonials from Chicago Citizenship Clients

We are honored to have served families and individuals all over Chicago and helped them realize their dream of U.S. citizenship.

Knows Her Stuff

Lindsay was really helpful with my family member’s N400 filing. She is really knowledgeable and knows her stuff. Would definitely hire her again for any immigration processings.

Can’t Recommend Enough!

I recently had the pleasure of working with immigration attorney Kathryn Weber at Scott D. Pollock & Associates P.C., and I can’t recommend her enough! From our very first Zoom consultation, she made me feel like I was in good hands. Her genuine care and compassion were evident, and it was clear that she truly understands her clients’ needs.

Kathryn’s extensive knowledge and expertise in immigration law gave me confidence in my situation. She took the time to explain everything in detail, ensuring I felt comfortable and informed every step of the way. I’m deeply grateful.

Professional, Knowledgeable, and Detail-oriented

We are so glad we hired Scott at Scott D. Pollock & Associates for the adjustment of my status around a year ago. Scott and his legal assistant (Ms. Linda) were very professional, knowledgeable and detail oriented. They were quick to respond to our emails with clear answers to our questions and concerns. Scott has a passion for his work and is always up to date with immigration and world affairs. We are very satisfied with the outcome and we highly recommend Scott and his team to anyone in need of an immigration lawyer.

Applying for U.S. citizenship is one of the most meaningful decisions you can make. Gaining citizenship is not an easy process, but our guidance means taking every step with confidence. The Chicago immigration lawyers of Scott D. Pollock and Associates, P.C. are ready to help you on your naturalization journey.