{"id":352751,"date":"2022-08-19T07:42:46","date_gmt":"2022-08-19T12:42:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/immigration\/citizenship\/naturalization-process.html"},"modified":"2026-05-27T11:02:00","modified_gmt":"2026-05-27T16:02:00","slug":"naturalization-process","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/citizenship\/naturalization-process.html","title":{"rendered":"How To Become a Naturalized U.S. Citizen in 4 Steps"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n<div class=\"fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\"><h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">How To Become a Naturalized U.S. Citizen in 4 Steps<\/h1>\n\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/lyle-therese-a-hilotin-lee-j-d\/\">Lyle Therese A. Hilotin-Lee, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/meagan-neil-esq\/\">Meagan Neil, Esq.<\/a>\n                | Last updated\n        <time>\n                            May 27, 2026\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n    <div class=\"fl-callout-text article-blockquote\">\n        <p>Naturalization is the legal process by which foreign nationals become U.S. citizens. This process has several steps, from filing an application for citizenship to attending an interview and taking an oath of allegiance to the United States. Understanding the process is crucial for successful completion and avoiding denials and delays.<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>\u00a0The <span data-term-id=\"58887038\">naturalization process<\/span> requires careful attention to <span data-term-id=\"58887056\">eligibility<\/span> requirements, deadlines, and proper documentation. Keep reading to learn the steps of the <span data-term-id=\"58887038\">naturalization process<\/span> and what to expect at each stage. At the end of the article, you\u2019ll find useful resources and tools to help you prepare.<\/p>\n<p>If you are planning to apply for naturalization or have questions related to the process, legal help is available. An <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"58887057\">immigration attorney<\/span><\/a> near you can help ensure you meet all the requirements and avoid delays or snags in your citizenship journey.<\/p>\n<h2>1. Meet the Qualifications for U.S. Citizenship<\/h2>\n<p>You must first understand the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/citizenship\/u-s-citizenship-naturalization-overview.html\">criteria for U.S. citizenship<\/a>. Some of the <span data-term-id=\"58887056\">eligibility<\/span> criteria include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Being at least 18 <span data-term-id=\"58887032\">years old<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Being a <span data-term-id=\"58887043\">lawful permanent resident<\/span> or a <span data-term-id=\"58887058\">green card holder<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Maintaining <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/policy-manual\/volume-12-part-d-chapter-9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"58887044\">good moral character<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Before beginning the <span data-term-id=\"58887038\">naturalization process<\/span>, you can check your <span data-term-id=\"58887056\">eligibility<\/span> through the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/citizenship-resource-center\/learn-about-citizenship\/naturalization-eligibility\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">naturalization <span data-term-id=\"58887056\">eligibility<\/span> tool<\/a>\u00a0available on the United States Customs and Immigration Services (<span data-term-id=\"58887033\">USCIS<\/span>) website. It will ask you questions to determine if you qualify for U.S. citizenship. The questions only help you check whether you can apply. The online tool does not determine if you can become a <span data-term-id=\"58887034\">U.S. Citizen<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>After you submit your <span data-term-id=\"58887049\">application for naturalization<\/span>, <span data-term-id=\"58887033\">USCIS<\/span> conducts a review of your information. It will ultimately assess your <span data-term-id=\"58887056\">eligibility<\/span> for U.S. citizenship through naturalization.<\/p>\n<h3>Ways To Get U.S. Citizenship<\/h3>\n<p>There are three ways to get U.S. citizenship:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>First, through birth (jus soli)<\/li>\n<li>Second, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/citizenship\/u-s-citizenship-through-parents-or-by-birth.html\">by blood<\/a> (jus sanguinis)<\/li>\n<li>Third, through naturalization<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Under jus soli, a person gets American citizenship by being born in the United States. The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/constitution.findlaw.com\/amendment14.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Fourteenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution<\/a>\u00a0guarantees the \u201cright of birthplace.\u201d By contrast, jus sanguinis confers citizenship on those born to at least one <span data-term-id=\"58887034\">U.S. citizen<\/span> parent anywhere in the world. A <span data-term-id=\"58887050\">family member<\/span> who doesn\u2019t qualify under either of these principles may seek U.S. citizenship through\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/citizenship\/the-basics-of-naturalization.html\">naturalization<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>2. Complete the <span data-term-id=\"58887049\">Application for Naturalization<\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Once you\u2019ve determined you\u2019re eligible for citizenship through naturalization, your next step is to complete the application.<\/p>\n<p>A foreign national may apply for naturalization with the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"58887040\">U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services<\/span> (<span data-term-id=\"58887033\">USCIS<\/span>)<\/a>. <span data-term-id=\"58887033\">USCIS<\/span> is a component of the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.dhs.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Department of Homeland Security (DHS)<\/a>\u00a0that plays a crucial role in administering the United States&#8217; immigration system.<\/p>\n<p>The <span data-term-id=\"58887049\">application for naturalization<\/span> includes submitting the required documents, attending the <span data-term-id=\"58887035\">naturalization interview<\/span>, and taking the <span data-term-id=\"58887041\">oath of allegiance<\/span> to the United States. If <span data-term-id=\"58887033\">USCIS<\/span> approves your application, you get U.S. Citizenship. Then, you get the same rights and protections as a <span data-term-id=\"58887034\">U.S. citizen<\/span>.<\/p>\n<h3><span data-term-id=\"58887045\">Form N-400<\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The <span data-term-id=\"58887038\">naturalization process<\/span> begins with submitting\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/n-400\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"58887045\">Form N-400<\/span><\/a>, <span data-term-id=\"58887049\">Application for Naturalization<\/span>. This form is available online on the <span data-term-id=\"58887033\">USCIS<\/span> website. A <span data-term-id=\"58887059\">filing fee<\/span> applies, but some people may be eligible for a fee <span data-term-id=\"58887055\">waiver<\/span> of the usual costs.<\/p>\n<p>There can be <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/citizenship\/naturalization-waivers-exceptions-and-special-cases.html\">exceptions and modifications<\/a> to the naturalization requirements that qualified people can obtain. <span data-term-id=\"58887033\">USCIS<\/span> also provides accommodations for people with disabilities.<\/p>\n<h2>3. Pass the <span data-term-id=\"58887035\">Naturalization Interview<\/span> and Test<\/h2>\n<p>Next, a <span data-term-id=\"58887039\">USCIS<\/span><span data-term-id=\"58887039\"> officer<\/span> will ask about your background and application during the <span data-term-id=\"58887035\">naturalization interview<\/span>. There will also be a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/citizenship\/learn-about-citizenship\/the-naturalization-interview-and-test\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"58887042\">naturalization test<\/span><\/a>\u00a0unless you qualify for an <span data-term-id=\"58887061\">exemption<\/span>. The test has two parts: the <span data-term-id=\"58887036\">civics test<\/span> and the <span data-term-id=\"58887046\">English test<\/span>.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p>During the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/citizenship\/what-to-expect-on-the-naturalization-test.html\"><span data-term-id=\"58887036\">civics test<\/span><\/a>, you have to answer questions about the U.S. government and <span data-term-id=\"58887037\">U.S. history<\/span>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>During the <span data-term-id=\"58887046\">English test<\/span>, you must show your understanding of the <span data-term-id=\"58887051\">English language<\/span> and your ability to write, read, and speak <span data-term-id=\"58887048\">basic English<\/span>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>What If I Don\u2019t Pass the <span data-term-id=\"58887035\">Naturalization Interview<\/span> and the Test?<\/h3>\n<p>You have two chances to take the civics and\u00a0<span data-term-id=\"58887046\">English tests<\/span>\u00a0and answer questions about your naturalization application in\u00a0English. If you fail any tests during the initial interview, you can retest. They will test you again on the part you failed between 60 and 90 days from the initial interview date.<\/p>\n<h2>4. Attend the Swearing-In Ceremony<\/h2>\n<p>If the <span data-term-id=\"58887033\">USCIS<\/span> approves your <span data-term-id=\"58887049\">application for naturalization<\/span>, it will schedule you to take the <span data-term-id=\"58887041\">oath of allegiance<\/span>. The swearing-in ceremony concludes the process of becoming a United States citizen.<\/p>\n<h3>Steps of the Naturalization Ceremony<\/h3>\n<ol>\n<li>\n<p>You will receive a notice to take an <span data-term-id=\"58887041\">oath of allegiance<\/span> to the United States. You can attend the ceremony on the same day as your <span data-term-id=\"58887035\">naturalization interview<\/span>. But if the ceremony is unavailable, <span data-term-id=\"58887033\">USCIS<\/span> will send you a notice with the time, date, and location of the ceremony.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>Once you arrive at the site, you must check in with a <span data-term-id=\"58887039\">USCIS<\/span><span data-term-id=\"58887039\"> officer<\/span>. The officer will review your responses on Form N-445, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/citizenship\/learn-about-citizenship\/naturalization-ceremonies\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Notice of Naturalization Oath Ceremony<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>When you check in, you must return your Permanent Resident Card (green card) to <span data-term-id=\"58887033\">USCIS<\/span>. It can waive this rule if you prove during the interview that you lost the green card and tried to recover it. Or, because of your military service, you were not granted a permanent residence card. After you take your <span data-term-id=\"58887041\">oath of allegiance<\/span>, you will get your <span data-term-id=\"58887053\">Certificate of Naturalization<\/span>. You no longer need your permanent resident card.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>You will take the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/citizenship\/learn-about-citizenship\/the-naturalization-interview-and-test\/naturalization-oath-of-allegiance-to-the-united-states-of-america\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"58887041\">Oath of Allegiance<\/span> to the United States<\/a>\u00a0during the naturalization ceremony.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p>After you take the oath, <span data-term-id=\"58887033\">USCIS<\/span> will issue you the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/document\/legal-docs\/USCIS_Approved_N-550_Personalized.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-term-id=\"58887053\">Certificate of Naturalization<\/span><\/a>. Make sure you review the certificate and inform <span data-term-id=\"58887033\">USCIS<\/span>\u00a0of any errors before leaving the ceremony.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h2>Can I Still Get Deported After Becoming a Naturalized Citizen?<\/h2>\n<p>Failure to show <span data-term-id=\"58887044\">good moral character<\/span> may hinder your naturalization and lead to deportation or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal\/overview-of-removal-procedures.html\">removal proceedings<\/a>. Keep a clean record and seek legal advice if you have any incidents in your history.<\/p>\n<h2>Seek Legal Advice From an Immigration Law Attorney<\/h2>\n<p>Becoming a <span data-term-id=\"58887034\">U.S. citizen<\/span> through naturalization can be overwhelming. You must meet various <span data-term-id=\"58887056\">eligibility<\/span> requirements, and some rules apply differently in every case.\u00a0Fortunately, legal help is available. An attorney can help you better understand the rules under U.S. immigration law and the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/dictionary.findlaw.com\/definition\/immigration-and-nationality-act-ina-.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Immigration and Nationality Act (INA)<\/a>\u00a0that apply to you. They can also guide you through <span data-term-id=\"58887033\">USCIS<\/span> policies and each step of the <span data-term-id=\"58887038\">naturalization process<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>They can provide other types of immigration legal services as well. For instance, if you have a <span data-term-id=\"58887050\">family member<\/span>\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal\/deportation.html\">facing deportation<\/a>\u00a0or would like to seek a\u00a0<span data-term-id=\"58887055\">waiver<\/span>\u00a0of certain requirements, an\u00a0immigration lawyer can guide you through these issues.<\/p>\n<p>FindLaw\u2019s\u00a0<a class=\"in-cell-link\" href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">directory of <span data-term-id=\"58887057\">immigration attorneys<\/span><\/a>\u00a0can get you started. Enter your city or ZIP code for a list of qualified legal professionals in your area. Your search results will also show important details about prospective lawyers, including ratings, languages spoken, and whether they offer free consultations.<\/p>\n<h2>Citizenship Through Naturalization: Extra Help and Resources<\/h2>\n<p>See below for additional resources on the <span data-term-id=\"58887038\">naturalization process<\/span>. Find helpful links, study guides, and fact sheets that can be useful in your naturalization journey.<\/p>\n<h3>A Guide to Naturalization<\/h3>\n<p>Start your naturalization journey with this<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/sites\/default\/files\/document\/guides\/M-618.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a0helpful guide from <span data-term-id=\"58887033\">USCIS<\/span><\/a>. If you are new to the <span data-term-id=\"58887038\">naturalization process<\/span>, this guide is a great place to start. It includes a frequently asked questions (FAQ) section, <span data-term-id=\"58887056\">eligibility<\/span> requirements, a document checklist, and more.<\/p>\n<h3>Naturalization Through Military Service<\/h3>\n<p>Military service members can find helpful information on becoming <span data-term-id=\"58887034\">U.S. citizens<\/span>.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/military\/naturalization-through-military-service\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">This page explains the requirements<\/a> set forth in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) sections 328 and 329. It includes <span data-term-id=\"58887061\">exemptions<\/span> and service criteria for certain naturalization requirements. You&#8217;ll also find information and resources about posthumous citizenship for U.S. military members and their <span data-term-id=\"58887050\">family members<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>FindLaw also details important <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/immigration-overview\/military-immigration.html\">immigration benefits for U.S. military service members<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h3><span data-term-id=\"58887042\">Naturalization Test<\/span> and Study Materials<\/h3>\n<p>Prepare with\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/citizenship\/what-to-expect-on-the-naturalization-test.html\">this article on what to expect on the <span data-term-id=\"58887042\">naturalization test<\/span><\/a>. It focuses on the tests you need to take to become a naturalized <span data-term-id=\"58887034\">U.S. citizen<\/span>. It includes information about two tests: a <span data-term-id=\"58887036\">civics test<\/span> and an <span data-term-id=\"58887046\">English test<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p><span data-term-id=\"58887036\">Civics tests<\/span> often cover the U.S. government and <span data-term-id=\"58887037\">U.S. history<\/span>. <span data-term-id=\"58887046\">English tests<\/span> assess your ability to speak, write, and read English. The page also discusses who may be exempt from these tests and what happens if an applicant does not pass.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/citizenship\/find-study-materials-and-resources\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Explore a wide range of materials<\/a>\u00a0from <span data-term-id=\"58887033\">USCIS<\/span> to help you prepare for the English and <span data-term-id=\"58887036\">civics tests<\/span>. These materials include flashcards, study guides, videos, and interactive practice tests.<\/p>\n<p><span data-term-id=\"58887033\">USCIS<\/span> also has updates about the tests, study materials, and resources written in multiple languages.<\/p>\n<h3><span data-term-id=\"58887033\">USCIS<\/span> Citizenship Resource Center<\/h3>\n<p>The <span data-term-id=\"58887040\">U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services<\/span>\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uscis.gov\/citizenship\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Citizenship Resource Center<\/a>\u00a0provides a wide range of information and resources for various users. It includes materials for immigrants seeking\u00a0U.S. citizenship, educators who play an important role in preparing learners, and organizations interested in supporting migrants.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                id=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__question fl-text-lg-bold\"\n        >Was this helpful?<\/span>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"Yes\"\n                value=\"yes\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">Yes<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n             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                    class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                        >Easy to understand<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Solved my problem\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                        >Solved my problem<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--negative\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this not helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n                        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Missing Information\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                        >Missing the information I need<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Too complicated\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                        >Too complicated \/ too many steps<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    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          class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--negative-other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__form-buttons-container\">\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--positive at-feedback-submit fl-button secondary\"\n                    type=\"submit\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Submit<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--cancel fl-button primary disabled\"\n                    type=\"reset\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Cancel<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-times-circle medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/form>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message\" role=\"status\">\n        <i class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-icon fa fa-check\"><\/i>\n        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-text\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-section-sidebar\"><div class=\"fl-editors-summary\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary\">\n    \n    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content\">\n                    <h2>Can I Solve This on My Own or Do I Need an Attorney?<\/h2>\n                <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-main\">\n            \n        <\/div>\n        <ul class=\"fl-list-style-none\">\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Some people can get a green card or complete immigration forms without hiring legal help\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    Complex immigration cases (such as having a criminal history or past immigration violations) may need the support of an attorney\n\n                <\/li>\n                            <li data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-item\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-check medium fl-editors-summary-content-item-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    A lawyer can assess your <span data-term-id=\"58887056\">eligibility<\/span> for naturalization and guide you through each step of the process\n\n                <\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n                    <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-description\">\n                <p>The immigration process can be stressful and slow. An attorney can offer tailored advice and help prevent common mistakes.<\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n                            <div class=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link fl-flex\" data-testid=\"fl-editors-summary-content-link\">\n                <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                <p class=\"find-attorney\">\u00a0<a title=\"Immigration Law Attorney Directory\" href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/#USER_GEO\/?fli=esum:FL29\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Find a local attorney<\/a><\/p>\n\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"email-subscription fl-mb30\">\n    <div class=\"email-subscription-header\">\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-content\">\n            <h3 class=\"fl-callout-sm fl-no-margin\">Stay Up-to-Date With How the Law Affects Your Life<\/h3>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"email-subscription-header-image fl-flex fl-items-end\">\n       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rel=\"noopener\">Learn more about FindLaw\u2019s newsletters<\/a>, including our terms of use and privacy policy.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"general-list\">\n    <h3>Helpful Links<\/h3>\n    <ul class=\"fl-list fl-no-margin\">\n                                    <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/asylum-refugee\/asylum-process.html\">\n                        Asylum Process\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/immigration-attorneys.html\">\n                        Hiring an Immigration Attorney\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/deportation-removal.html\">\n                        Deportation and Removal\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    <div class=\"popularDirectory\">\n        <div class=\"general-popular-directory \">\n            <div class=\"general-popular-directory-title\">\n                <h3>Attorney Directory<\/h3>\n            <\/div>\n            <ul>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/immigration-naturalization-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Immigration Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/international-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">International Law Attorneys<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/labor-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Labor Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/employment-law-employee\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Employment Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/discrimination\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Discrimination Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/education-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Education Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>FindLaw shares the four steps to becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization. Learn how to prepare and find helpful resources and legal answers.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":41135,"featured_media":0,"parent":352742,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"app\/Http\/Controllers\/Templates\/ArticleWithBreadcrumbsController.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_stopmodifiedupdate":true,"_modified_date":"","_autodraft_ids":[],"_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"_sb_is_suggestion_mode":false,"_sb_show_suggestion_boards":false,"_sb_show_comment_boards":false,"_sb_suggestion_history":"","_sb_update_block_changes":"","_is_real_time_mode":false,"_realtime_collaborators":"","footnotes":"","cf_checklist_status":["Alt Text for All Images","Category Assigned","External Links"]},"categories":[2733],"tags":[],"state_laws_tags":[],"flmsa":[],"class_list":["post-352751","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-immigration"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/352751","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/41135"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=352751"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/352751\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":396768,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/352751\/revisions\/396768"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/352742"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=352751"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=352751"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=352751"},{"taxonomy":"state_laws_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/state_laws_tags?post=352751"},{"taxonomy":"flmsa","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/flmsa?post=352751"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}