Looking to quickly become a U.S. Citizen if married to a U.S. missionary or military official abroad?

In U.S. immigration law, Expeditious Naturalization is the process by which eligible green card holders married to U.S. citizens working abroad can quickly acquire U.S. citizenship.

Eligibility

• To be eligible for expeditious naturalization, individuals generally must meet certain requirements, including being a permanent resident (green card holder), demonstrating good moral character, and meeting other criteria specific to their situation, such as being married to a U.S. citizen working abroad.

Permanent Residency (Green Card)

• An individual typically needs to have held a green card (lawful permanent residency) for a certain period, usually three years if married to a U.S. citizen.

Residency Requirements

• For expeditious naturalization, the continuous residence and physical presence requirements are adjusted. Applicants must maintain continuous residence, and whether the individual is working abroad for an authorized employer or has a re-entry permit, which affects these requirements.

Good Moral Character

• Applicants for expeditious naturalization must demonstrate good moral character. Factors like criminal convictions or failure to pay taxes can affect eligibility.

Naturalization Application (Form N-400)

• The naturalization process begins with the submission of Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The application includes biographic information, details about the applicant’s background, and supporting documentation.

Biometrics and Interview

• After submitting the application, if applying from overseas or online, applicants need to be fingerprinted and provide necessary documentation. They also have the option to do the biometrics in the United States or the Embassy in their location depending on where they are. Subsequently, they attend an interview before a USCIS officer, during which the officer reviews the application, conducts a naturalization test, and assesses the applicant’s eligibility.

English Language and Civics Test

• Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the English language, including reading, writing, and speaking. Additionally, they are required to pass a civics test covering U.S. government and history. Senior age and disability can waive some of these requirements.

Oath of Allegiance

• If approved, the final step is taking the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalization ceremony. By taking the oath, the individual becomes a U.S. citizen, receives a Naturalization certificate, and can apply for a U.S. passport.

What are the steps of Expeditious Naturalization?

1.  Submit Form N-400
   Complete and submit Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, to USCIS.
2. Attend Biometrics Appointment
   Attend a biometrics appointment for fingerprinting and photographs.
3. Interview with USCIS
   Attend an interview where your N-400 application is reviewed.
4. Pass English and Civics Test
   Demonstrate proficiency in English (reading, writing, and speaking) and pass a civics test on U.S. government and history.
5. Receive Decision and Oath Notice
   USCIS decides on your application. If approved, you receive a notice to attend a naturalization ceremony to take the Oath of Allegiance.
6. Oath of Allegiance and Obtain Certificate
   Attend the naturalization ceremony, take the Oath of Allegiance, and receive a Certificate of Naturalization, officially becoming a U.S. citizen.
7. Update Social Security Records and Obtain Passport
   Update your Social Security records with your new status and consider applying for a U.S. passport.