How Long Does It Take to Get U.S. Citizenship?

Short answer: Many people complete naturalization in about 12–18 months after filing Form N‑400, but timing varies widely by USCIS field office, your background checks, and case facts. For the most accurate estimate, use USCIS’s Processing Times tool and select Form N‑400 and your field office.

New for 2025: If you filed N‑400 on or after Oct 20, 2025, you’ll take the 2025 civics test. Filers before that date continue with the previous (2008) test.

Need help? Quijano Law’s Atlanta team handles U.S. citizenship and guides you through each step.

Step‑by‑Step: What the Naturalization Timeline Looks Like

While exact timing depends on your location and case, most applicants move through these stages:

These are general estimates. Actual timelines vary by location and case.

Pro tip: To see what’s typical for your field office, check USCIS’s Processing Times tool; it also shows a “case inquiry date” so you know when you can ask USCIS about delays.

Factors That Can Lengthen (or Shorten) Your Timeline

Several things can influence your citizenship process time:

• Local workload/backlogs at your USCIS field office.
• Application accuracy & completeness (avoid RFEs by submitting all required evidence).
• Background checks or name changes (judicial oath).
• Rescheduling/missed appointments or address changes mid‑process.
• Requests for Evidence (RFEs) – USCIS may ask for more documentation.
• Local processing times – some offices process cases more quickly than others.

When Can I Apply for Citizenship After Getting a Green Card?

Permanent residents must usually wait before applying for citizenship. Most lawful permanent residents apply under one of these rules:

1. Five‑Year Rule: Usually eligible 5 years after becoming a permanent resident; must meet continuous residence and physical presence (at least 30 months in the U.S. during the 5‑year period), plus 3 months in your USCIS district.
2. Three‑Year Rule: If married to a U.S. citizen and meeting all requirements (including living in marital union), you may apply after 3 years, with at least 18 months of physical presence.
3. 90‑Day Early Filing: You may file up to 90 days before you complete the 3‑ or 5‑year continuous‑residence period (but you must still meet all other eligibility rules on the day of your interview/oath).

How to Check Your USCIS Timeframe (Fast)

• Go to the USCIS Processing Times tool.
• Choose Form N‑400 and your field office.
• Review the estimated time range and note the “case inquiry date.”

You can also track your individual case with USCIS Case Status Online using your receipt number.

How Quijano Law Supports the Naturalization Process

The naturalization process is detail‑heavy. Guidance from an immigration lawyer can help you navigate the process confidently and securely. Our Atlanta team reviews eligibility, prepares your N‑400, organizes evidence to reduce RFEs, and coaches you for the interview and civics test. If you’re considering naturalization or want to compare options, start with a consultation.

FAQs About Citizenship Timelines

How long does it take to get US citizenship after applying?

It varies by field office and case facts. Many cases finish in about a year to 18 months, but some are faster or slower. Always check the USCIS Processing Times for your office.

How long after getting a green card can you apply for citizenship?

Usually 5 years, or 3 years if you qualify through marriage to a U.S. citizen and meet all requirements (including physical presence).

How long is the citizenship interview?

The appointment itself is often under an hour, but scheduling can take months depending on local workload.

Does a name change delay my oath?

If you request a legal name change, you’ll take a judicial oath, which can add scheduling time.

Which civics test will I take in 2025?

If you filed on/after Oct 20, 2025 USCIS will administer the 2025 civics test; earlier filers use the prior test.

Should I hire an attorney?

An immigration lawyer can help avoid mistakes, prepare for RFEs, address complex histories, and generally make sure everything is properly prepared and filed the way the government requires.

What happens if my case is delayed?

Delays often happen because of local backlogs or requests for more evidence.

Author: Viviana A. Quijano

(Founder and Managing Attorney, Quijano Law)

Mrs. Viviana Quijano is the founder of Quijano Law, established in 2013. Since then, she has helped countless individuals, families, and businesses achieve success in their immigration matters. An internationally recognized attorney, Mrs. Quijano is licensed to practice in both the United States and Colombia. She holds law degrees from The University of Alabama School of Law and the Universidad Santo Tomas in Bogotá, Colombia. Passionate about community engagement, she works tirelessly to educate immigrants on the importance of pursuing legal pathways and embracing American culture.